Overview
- The refreshed 16S, 17S and 20S retain the platform’s silhouette but add more than two dozen changes, including a lighter hydraulically buffered two‑piece carrier, a non‑reciprocating charging handle and an extended M‑LOK receiver.
- Factory suppressor readiness includes U.S.-standard muzzle threads and forward‑venting design, paired with new QD556 and QD762 suppressors built from 3D‑printed Inconel and compatible with HUB mounting systems.
- FN reports 16,000‑round rifle endurance and 10,000‑round full‑auto suppressor tests with no major failures, and says pricing will remain at current SCAR levels.
- Availability is staged: the 17S is slated for Q1 2026 in limited colors, with the 16S, 20S and the QD suppressors following in Q2, and a public reveal planned at SHOT Show Jan. 20–23.
- A hands‑on range report described clearly reduced recoil—highlighting the 17S and a standout 16S—while noting open questions on legacy accessory compatibility and the final iron‑sight configuration.