A battle rifle offers the best of both worlds, pairing a semi-auto action with the ability to fire full-powered rifle ammunition. The 7.62 NATO cartridge in particular is one of the most popular and widely available in the world, so owning a battle rifle chambered for the round is as practical as it is fun. These are the top 5 battle rifles in 7.62 NATO that you should have in your safe. 

Top 5 Battle Rifles

Top 5 Battle Rifles In 7.62 NATO

Each battle rifle on our list must feed reliably and be able to accept 20-round magazines. And because 7.62 NATO produces more recoil than intermediate rifle cartridges like .223 Remington or 5.56 NATO, control and shootability will also play a factor. 

PTR-91 GIR

An excellent clone of the HK G3, the PTR-91 features a roller-delayed blowback system which makes for an incredibly flat shooting battle rifle. This particular model features a classic green stock and forend, welded scope mount, and an HK-profile tapered barrel. 

The PTR-91 utilizes a 20-round magazine, plus slings and other accessories are readily available so you can customize it to your liking. For that vintage aesthetic with fantastic modern aftermarket support, the PTR-91 is tough to beat.

PTR 91 GIR, .308 Caliber Semi-Auto Rifle, Roller Delayed Blowback Action PTR-101
PTR 91 GIR, .308 Caliber Semi-Auto Rifle, Roller Delayed Blowback Action PTR-101
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Sig Sauer Tread AR-10

Next up is one of the best-selling AR-platform battle rifles on the market. The Sig Sauer 7161 Tread is as precise as it it stylish, with a Magpul CTR adjustable stock and an incredibly ergonomic pistol grip from Sig that is unique to the Tread product line.

Conveniently, the flash hider serves double duty as a mount for Sig's suppressors and the full-length M-LOK handguard allows the shooter to attach IR lasers, night vision, and canted sights in practically any position. Few rifles are as dependable or as versatile.

FN FAL

The FN FAL might be the most iconic battle rifles of the 20th century. It saw extensive service in many conflicts around the globe and has earned a reputation as a robust, combat-proven firearm that is highly sought-after by enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Whenever a batch of these guns hits the market, it's a not a question of if but when (and how quickly) they will sell out of stock. Any shooter who is serious about running a rifle chambered in 7.62 NATO should have one in their safe.

DSA SA58 Cold Warrior FAL Rifle 21" Barrel .308/7.62X51 20RD - SA5821S-CW-A
DSA SA58 Cold Warrior FAL Rifle 21" Barrel .308/7.62X51 20RD - SA5821S-CW-A
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Springfield M1A SOCOM

Based on the amazing M14 platform, the Springfield M1A SOCOM sports a 16" barrel mated to the gas system via the muzzle brake to significantly reduce felt recoil. It also features a fully adjustable stock and a scout-style forward Picatinny rail for mounting optics. 

The M1A SOCOM ships with one 10-round magazine, but 20-round mags are readily available. Overall, this rifle includes many improvements over the original M14, making it even more ideally suited for use in close quarters battle or as a designated marksman rifle.

Springfield Armory AA9611 M1A Socom Semi-Auto .308 16.2" 10+1 5-Position CQB with Adj Cheekpiece Black Parkerized
Springfield Armory AA9611 M1A Socom Semi-Auto .308 16.2" 10+1 5-Position CQB with Adj Cheekpiece Black Parkerized
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HK MR762A1

The HK MR762A1 is the semi-automatic version of the proven HK417 battle rifle. This supremely accurate and durable firearm utilizes HK's closed piston-driven system, which allows the rifle to cycle more reliably and without overheating. 

Moreover, the MR762A1 performs exceptionally well in adverse conditions (sand, mud, rain, etc.) and is favored by elite military and law enforcement units for that reason. If you're looking for the best battle rifle money can buy, you'd be hard pressed to find a better choice than the MR762A1.

Heckler and Koch 81000586 MR762 Rifle 7.62x51 16.5" 20rd M-LOK
Heckler and Koch 81000586 MR762 Rifle 7.62x51 16.5" 20rd M-LOK
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Which Battle Rifle Is Best? 

Battle rifles are some of the most versatile shooting platforms available. Any of the above firearms can be configured to suit your purposes but to learn more before making your decision, be sure to watch our video on the best battle rifles of all time.

Shop all long guns in 7.62 NATO!