What came first, the CETME or HK's G-3 ? Think you're sure of the answer. Well you're wrong. First came the German MP-44.....then the CETME......and later the G-3, modeled after the CETME, this according to October's GUNS & AMMO. Are you surprised that a rifle from Spain would be a trend setter, I was.

This particular rifle was assembled using new, original spanish parts and selected U.S. parts so that it would comform to all U.S. Federal requirements. It features a compensator for recoil reduction and fast target acquistion during semi-auto fire. The buttstock and and handguard are made of hardwood. The CETME rifle, like the G-3, are roller lock, delay blow back design with fluted chambers for reliable function in the worst of conditions. The receiver is U.S. made(Century Arms) using vacuum casting, 17-4 stainless steel. Each casting is hot straightened to ensure flawless function and heat treated to 42-47 RC for strength and wear resistance.

The rifle is finished with a gray/black paint just like the HK process. The rear sight is a fixed, four position rotating peep sight. A "V" notch for 100 meters or less, an peep sights for 200, 300 and 400 meters. The front sight is an adjustable pin sight. If you read this months field report you will follow how I tested this rifle and what adjustments were needed. But in short, it is a straight shooting rifle right out of the box. It is 40 3/4 " in over all length and weighs 9.7 pounds, heavy but balanced and easy to shoot. The safety is on the left side of the receiver, my short thumb can still reach it. The cocking handle is also on the leftside, but forward of the receiver. The spring is beefy, so pull hard.

Extra mag's are easy to find, just check TAPCO, they have some good deals on the spanish mag's and excessories, but also the G-3 or HK 41's mag's will also work. I enjoied shooting this rifle and highly recommend that you take a gander at it too. Price is from $500 to $600.

CETME INFO BY THE BUCKETLOADS HERE AT CETMERIFLES.COM

since 08-28-03