FN SCAR 16S NRCH 5.56 NATO 16.25-Inch Rifle

The FN SCAR 16S NRCH 5.56 NATO 16.25-Inch is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO.

The NRCH configuration updates the commercial SCAR 16S with dual Non-Reciprocating Charging Handles, while retaining the short-stroke gas-piston operating system, monolithic aluminum receiver and folding/telescoping stock associated with the platform.

For the standard black 30-round configuration, FN identifies the rifle as 98521-2 with UPC 845737013622.

FN SCAR 16S NRCH 5.56 NATO Overview

The SCAR 16S NRCH uses a hard-anodized monolithic aluminum upper receiver with MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny interfaces at the 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock positions.

Below the upper is a polymer trigger module incorporating ambidextrous safety and magazine-release controls. The rifle also features an enlarged trigger guard and A2-style pistol grip.

For additional firearm specifications and model references, browse the Gunvexa firearm reference catalog.

SCAR 16S Short-Stroke Gas-Piston System

FN uses a short-stroke gas-piston operating system with an adjustable low-flash gas regulator.

The NRCH bolt-carrier assembly works with two charging handles that remain stationary during firing. The handles are reversible and can be positioned according to the rifle’s configuration.

This distinguishes the NRCH generation from older SCAR 16S rifles with reciprocating charging handles.

16.25-Inch CHF Chrome-Lined Barrel

The SCAR 16S uses a 16.25-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel.

FN specifies a chrome-lined chamber and bore together with a fully free-floating barrel design. Published specifications commonly identify a 1:7 rifling twist for the 5.56x45mm configuration.

A factory compensator is fitted at the muzzle.

Monolithic Receiver and Iron Sights

The hard-anodized upper provides a continuous top rail for compatible sighting equipment.

FN also includes adjustable folding iron sights. The front sight folds down, while the rear sight is both folding and removable.

This combination allows the rifle to retain mechanical sights while providing substantial rail space.

Folding and Telescoping Stock

The SCAR 16S NRCH uses a side-folding, telescoping polymer stock.

The stock includes an adjustable cheekpiece and adjustable length of pull. FN lists overall rifle length at approximately 34.5 to 37 inches, depending on stock position.

Published unloaded weight is approximately 7.25 pounds.

For official manufacturer documentation, see the FN Owner’s Manuals.

FN SCAR 16S NRCH Technical Summary

Overall, the FN SCAR 16S NRCH 5.56 NATO 16.25-Inch combines a 16.25-inch CHF chrome-lined barrel with a short-stroke piston system and monolithic aluminum receiver.

Its defining NRCH features include dual non-reciprocating charging handles, reduced-mass bolt-carrier architecture, ambidextrous controls, adjustable gas regulator and folding/telescoping stock.

For the black 30-round configuration, 98521-2 / UPC 845737013622 provides the clearest factory identification.

SCAR 16S NRCH Key Specifications

• Manufacturer: FN America
• Model: FN SCAR 16S NRCH
• Black 30-round SKU / MPN: 98521-2
• Black 30-round UPC: 845737013622
• Firearm type: Rifle
• Action: Semi-automatic
• Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
• Operating system: Short-stroke gas piston
• Gas regulator: Adjustable low-flash
• Barrel length: 16.25 inches
• Barrel construction: Cold hammer forged
• Chamber: Chrome lined
• Bore: Chrome lined
• Barrel design: Free floating
• Twist rate: 1:7
• Factory muzzle device: Compensator
• Upper receiver: Monolithic aluminum
• Upper finish: Hard anodized
• Lower / trigger module: Polymer
• Top rail: MIL-STD-1913
• Side/bottom rails: MIL-STD-1913
• Rail positions: 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock
• Charging system: Dual NRCH
• Charging handles: Non-reciprocating
• Charging handles: Reversible / user configurable
• Safety: Ambidextrous
• Magazine release: Ambidextrous
• Trigger guard: Enlarged
• Grip: A2 style
• Stock: Telescoping, side folding
• Cheekpiece: Adjustable
• Front sight: Adjustable folding
• Rear sight: Folding and removable
• Magazine pattern: FN SCAR-L / AR-pattern compatible
• Standard factory capacity: 30 rounds
• Factory magazines: One
• Published weight: 7.25 lb
• Overall length: 34.5–37 inches
• Standard finishes: Black or Flat Dark Earth
• NRCH introduction: 2021