+1 on the M1A Scout. The 18" barrel makes it a well balanced and versatile weapon. And 7.62 surplus helps keep the ammo costs down (well, relatively speaking after 4 Nov.)

The HK91, FAL and M1A are all excellent rifles. You can find licensed, authorized and unauthorized copies of all three, in grades ranging from good to bad to ugly. On the origionals, all have very good sights, are very reliable, and are accurate enough. Down side is they can all be pricey, the HK roller lock as a rep for beating up brass and the cocking handle is in a funny spot if you are lefty, the FAL is sometimes a little finicky about ammo and cleanliness, and the M1A's safety is a little odd and it is probably the heaviest. As was suggested, make sure it is chambered for .308 Winchester rather than 7.62NATO- the former is hotter.

So, if you've settled on a "tactical" rifle, great. But I also like to toss out things like the Remington 7400 to think about. Politically neutral, just as accurate, sights are very good, available in true .308, and not being a "tactical" rifle it is less expensive. Downsides are that the biggest magazines I've ever seen for it are 10 rounders, and it won't take as much abuse as a rifle originally designed for military use.

Lon,

I had forgotten about, and just remembered another option to the PTR-91.

Springfield Armory SAR-308. Basically the same rifle, but with the SA stamp on it. May actually be H&K or CZ. Was browsing Cabelas gun library and found several.

And no, I don't work for SA, but if they were hiring field sales rep's I would jump at the chance. Same with HK.

Good Luck, and take care of whatever you decide on.

Thanks everyone. You've reinforced some thoughts that I already had; and gave me some new things to consider as well... very helpful as always!

M1A is a great choice! I have a DPMS LR308. It has been flawless through the first 860 rounds. Fit and finish is excellent and you will have plenty of cash left over to buy ammo! Either way you will be happy.