Springfield Armory SAR-48 Match 7.62 NATO Pre-Ban IMBEL FAL, 20-inch Barrel, Semi-Auto
This SAR-48 Match is a pre-1989 Springfield/IMBEL import built on an IMBEL Itajubá Type III metric FAL receiver and assembled in the USA. Factory roll-marked "SA-48 MATCH" with the Springfield crest, it features the classic 20-inch 7.62 NATO barrel, adjustable gas system, and correct metric FAL configuration. It comes with multiple metric steel magazines, a bayonet set, and a sling, adding completeness and value for an FN FAL enthusiast.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The firearm is in solid shape. There are scratches and blemishes present. The bore is clean and shiny.
What's Included
- 7x 20-round metric FAL-pattern steel magazines
- 1x extended 25-round metric FAL-pattern steel magazine
- FAL socket bayonet with scabbard and green web frog
- Green web two-point sling (installed)
Designated SA-48 MATCH, this rifle aligns with the FN FAL platform and retains period-correct features: a smooth, non-railed top cover, sheet-steel bipod-cut handguards with cooling slots, and a carry handle. Import and proof markings include "Springfield Armory, Geneseo, IL. USA" and "IMBEL – Itajubá – Brasil," underscoring its pre-ban import history from circa 1985–1989.
Chambered in 7.62x51 NATO, it uses a semi-automatic, gas-operated short-stroke piston system with an adjustable gas regulator. Controls are true to the metric FAL pattern, with a left-side folding ribbed charging handle and a semi-auto S/F selector with manual safety. It accepts metric FAL-pattern magazines.
The 20-inch barrel is capped by a cylindrical multi-port muzzle device. Sights are iron: a protected front post and a metric elevation-adjustable ramp/aperture rear. Sling points include a front sling swivel on the gas block and a rear sling point on the buttstock.
Furniture is durable and functional: a fixed black synthetic stock with a 14.5-inch length of pull and a matching black synthetic pistol grip. The steel receiver wears a black finish. Built on Brazilian receivers assembled in USA, this example represents the sought-after pre-ban Springfield/IMBEL collaboration in the SA-48 MATCH series.