#I'm looking for a .308 (7.62 NATO) self-loader. I'd prefer
#one with detachable mags. The only models I've heard of so
#far are HK-91, the HK SR-7 (?) and the LAR-A1.
I have an HK-91. I bought it used about 16 months ago. I have never had a jam with it. It is at least as accurate as I can shoot- about 2-2.5 inches at 100 yards with military surplus ammo. I am using the built-in peep site.
One disadvantage of the HK91, all of the attachments are expensive. I'll note some typical prices as I go.
Scope mounting is an example. The HK claw mount lists for about $300, although I have had stores tell me they could get it for me at around $150. B-square also makes a scope mount for around $70.
Magazines are typically 20 rounds ($15), and come in steel (heavy), aluminum (light), and plastic(very light). I also have a five round ($15) and a thirty round magazine($25). German military G3 (selective fire version) parts fit, except for some parts near the trigger group, which may not be interchangable. A sniper trigger group is available for about $300.
The gun is heavy, around 9.75 pounds. Recoil is pleasant, no painful kick, just a gentle shove.
You can add an integral bipod ($90) which mounts on the forend, not the barrel. This prevents change of the bullet impact point with the bipod.The bipod brings the weight to about 11 pounds. A carry handle is also available for $27.
The HK91 has a delayed roller action, it isn't gas operated. In principle you can shoot lead bullets without worrying about messing up a gas port (as can happen in a Garand or M1A for example). I haven't tried it yet. The chamber is fluted (something to do with the timing on the delayed roller action, and leaves striations on the cases. The cases are reloadable however. With the surplus ammo I've been shooting it's a bitch to clean. That's my own fault.
If you want to handload you need a case catcher ($29). Cases will be thrown about 30-40 feet directly to the right side with high velocity. If you shoot at a public range, this can get a lot of people pissed off fast (yes, the case would go right down the line of shooters). You may also want a plastic port buffer ($30) to protect cases so they don't get dented on ejection.
As you can tell, this is a systems rifle. There are lots of additions, limited only by your wallet. You can get a collapsible stock ($?). There are books telling how to convert it to full auto ($10). Yes, its illegal, also impractical. Governments pay to have semi-auto mod's done to their G3's so the troops don't waste money (i.e., ammo). A full auto .308 is supposed to be totally uncontrollable. The G3/HK91 is supposed to be the gov't arm for 20-30 nations.
Bottom line-how do I like it? Accuracy- great, feel-great, weight-too high but then all 308 battle rifles are too heavy, cleaning- god I hate it. Clearly it will last longer than the rocks though. I don't think you can ever wear one out. The quality can't be believed.
