Make: DS Arms

Model: L1A1 (C2A1 Parts Build)

Serial Number: AD0236

Year of Manufacture: Modern

Caliber: 7.62x 51 NATO

Action Type: Short stroke gas piston tilting lock, magazine fed semi automatic rifle.

Markings: This left side of the receiver is marked, “RIFLE 7.62MM L1A1 SER# AD0236”. The right side of the receiver is marked with the DSA logo and address. The right side of the trigger housing is marked, “AD63 384”. The left side of the receiver is marked with, “S R A” and a broad arrow proof with an Australian Lithgow proof. The underside of the barrel has a Canadian proof. The bottom of the charging handle and flash hider are marked, “FSE USA”.

Barrel Length: 21”. 24” with the flash hider.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable post set between two protective ears and the rear is an escalator type peep sight adjustable out to 1000 meters.

Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a three piece walnut stock set with a sling ring on the barrel, wood covered bipod that fold against the barrel to make a handguard, smooth wood pistol grip, and dropped comb stock with a sling loop and metal buttplate with a hinged storage compartment. There are light handling marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. There is a polymer carry handle attached to the receiver. The LOP measures 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. Overall this stock set rates in Very Good Plus condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x 30rd 7.62 NATO Inch Pattern FAL magazine in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Parkerized, Enamel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is faint, near unnoticeable erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its metal finish. As this firearm is built off of a surplus kit, it shows moderate thinning and light wear to most parts giving it a battle worn appearance. The receiver retains almost all of its finish. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. This rifle sports a three position safety (Safe, Semi, Semi)

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a total of one magazine, cotton sling.

Our Assessment: The DS Arms L1A1 FAL Canadian C2A1 Parts Build, chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, is a high-quality semi-automatic rifle, blending the legendary FAL platform with Canadian and Australian military surplus components. Built using a DSA-manufactured L1A1 receiver and surplus C2A1 heavy-barrel parts, this rifle is a faithful recreation of the Canadian C2A1 automatic rifle, which served as a squad support weapon in the Cold War era. The 21-inch barrel (24 inches with the flash hider) ensures outstanding ballistic performance, long-range accuracy, and durability, making it an ideal choice for military surplus collectors and FAL enthusiasts alike. One of the defining features of this build is its wood-covered bipod, which folds against the barrel to double as a handguard, a unique trait of the C2A1 light automatic rifle. The rifle is also fitted with a robust walnut stock set, smooth wood pistol grip, and a metal buttplate with a hinged storage compartment, maintaining the classic aesthetic of the original service rifle. The adjustable rear escalator sight, which is graduated out to 1,000 meters, reflects the rifle’s intended role as a designated marksman and support weapon in Canadian military doctrine. The trigger housing bears Australian military markings, reflecting how surplus Canadian L1A1 rifles, including C2A1 variants, were later sold to Australia, where they were re-marked and integrated into their military inventory. While built from surplus military parts, the receiver retains sharp markings and original finish, with a battle-worn appearance that adds to its authenticity. The bore is exceptionally clean, with sharp rifling and minimal signs of wear, ensuring that this rifle remains a capable shooter despite its surplus origins.

For collectors, military rifle enthusiasts, and those seeking a rare and distinctive FAL variant, this DS Arms L1A1/C2A1 build is an excellent addition to any collection. With its Canadian surplus parts, Australian markings, and DS Arms’ reputation for quality manufacturing, this rifle offers both historical significance and practical functionality. These rifles saw service in both Canadian and Australian forces, highlighting the global impact of the FN FAL design. Whether used for range shooting, historical appreciation, or as a standout piece in a Cold War rifle collection, C2A1 build features is a remarkable representation of one of the most respected battle rifles in military history.