FA-MAS Type 62

The FA-MAS Type 62 is a 7.62×51mm NATO rifle developed by the French Army as a replacement for the MAS-49/56.^[1][2] It was the last in series of 40 different prototype rifles designed between 1952 and 1962.^[3][4] However, the introduction of the 5.56×45mm cartridge caused the French to rethink their approach and the project was eventually cancelled. The Type 62's bayonet was later adopted for use on the FAMAS rifle.

FA-MAS Type 62
Type	Battle Rifle
Place of origin	France
Production history
Designed	1962
Manufacturer	Manufacture d'armes de Saint-Étienne
Specifications
Mass	4.53 kg
Length	1040 mm
Barrel length	500 mm
Cartridge	7.62×51mm NATO
Caliber	7.62 mm
Action	Gas-operated
Rate of fire	600 rpm
Effective firing range	400–800 m
Feed system	20-round detachable box magazine
Sights	Iron sights

Predecessors

Type-55

The MAS-55 has its gas piston underneath its barrel and operated in a similar way to the FM1924/29 light machine gun but resulted in a heavy rifle for its type. ^[5]

Type-56

The Type-56 was a simpler alternative to the Type-55 and was closer to the FN FAL.

Type-59

The Type-59 came with an improved stock and foregrip. It also came with a folding stock, bipod and infra-red sight as the AP61.

See also

• List of battle rifles