LAPA FA-03

The LAPA FA modelo 03 assault rifle was developed by Brazilian manufacturer between 1978 and 1983. It was intended to replace the IMBEL LAR (a license built version of the FN FAL), chambered for the 7.62-mm rounds. The LAPA FA 03 assault rifle has a bullpup design and has a number of unusual design features, unfortunately only 100 to 500 of these rifles were built. This assault rifle was ready for production in 1985, however it was not selected because a number of reasons. Brazilian army selected the IMBEL MD-2, which had an ordinary design, but in general was inferior to the FA-03. Some sources claim, that the LAPA FA-03 is used by Brazilian special police forces.

The LAPA FA-03 uses a conventional gas-operated system with rotating bolt locking. It is chambered for the 5.56 x 45 mm standard NATO round. This rifle has an unusual trigger, that has a single- and double-action modes. Rifle can be carried safely with the round loaded and is ready to fire at any time. Similar system is very popular in modern semi-automatic pistols. The LAPA FA-03 has single-shot and full-auto firing modes.

Rifle has a plastic housing. Reloading handle is located on top of the barrel box and can be reloaded with either hand. Ejection port is right side only. It is worth mentioning that this rifle can be fed from standard M16 magazines.

The LAPA FA-03 has an ordinary opened sight, built into the carrying handle. It has two positions for 200 and 400 meters. This assault rifle can also be fitted with a knife-bayonet.