Welcome back to another TFB review. This week, I wanted to take a look at a grail gun that I have always wanted since I was a young man watching action films. There are some firearms that are just the definition of cool factor and even though you won't be able to buy them, they still can be idolized in your head. Late last year, I decided I was going to go for it and pursue my childhood dream of owning a SAW, even if it's the 249S version. I have had this rifle for a few months now and have had some time to get behind it. Let's take a closer look at the FN M249 SAW.SpecsThe M249S is the semi-automatic variant of the classic M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW). The biggest difference is the fact that the 249S has a closed bolt system compared to the full auto variant having an open bolt system. The closed bolt system is difficult to convert to full auto, which is why there's a difference with the operating system. Everything else is identical on the 249S compared to the military SAW variant, with surplus barrels, stocks and everything else being able to fit onto the 249S. This M249S comes from FN with a 16.1” cold hammer forged chrome-lined barrel chambered in 5.56x45MM. The unique thing about the M249S and full auto variant is the fact that they can be fed by a linked ammunition system as well as take AR15 magazines. FN sells the M249S in a standard full-size version with an 18.5” barrel and fixed stock or the shorter Para variant. The model I decided to purchase is the Para variant with a collapsible stock as well as a shooter 16.1” barrel. Both come standard with a 200-round plastic ammo box for linked ammo, as well as 100 links. My version has a trigger with an average 5.75lbs pull weight along with the standard heat shield and quick barrel change options. MSRP is $11,094 for the M249 Para SAW, with the longer standard version being a bit less. Both models are available currently and in stores. Specs List MSRP$11,094ManufacturerFN AmericaManufacturer Part #46-100171ModelM249SModelParaActionSemi-automaticCaliber556NATOBarrel Length16.1"ColorBlackGripsPolymerType of BarrelChrome LinedCapacityN/ADescriptionBelt FedSightsAdjustable SightsSubcategoryModern Sporting RiflesFinishMatteStockCollapsible Range TimeOver the last few months, I have put roughly 650 rounds through the M249S Para SAW and it has been nearly perfect. I had two quirky link malfunctions that were quick to clear. I also put about five magazines through the gun with absolutely no issues. The built-in bipod is a nice touch, but there's no denying this gun is heavy; even in its shorter, lightweight configuration, it still weighs enough to be tough to manage. The standard ammo box that comes with the M249S has a 200-round capacity, which you can find surplus for a reasonable price. Plenty of other companies make smaller pouches if you want something a bit more compact. To make the Para variant compliant as a rifle, FN had to pin and weld the compensator to the barrel for an overall length of 16”. While I appreciate it not being an SBR (short barreled rifle), this means you won't be able to change out the muzzle device for anything else. There are plenty of barrels available on the market for you to put another option on your rifle, though. Over the last couple of months, it's been a really refreshing gun to take to the range and run drills with your friends. Expensive But Worth It When it comes to the cost of ownership of this M249S, there's no question that it's a high entry cost as well as a higher operating cost compared to something like an AR15 or a regular magazine-fed rifle. The disposable links aren't very expensive, but buying already linked ammo or buying the links and doing it yourself will be slightly more expensive as well. For some, I know this will not be an option or even something they think is cool. I know the comments will say how dumb it is to spend this much money on a semi-automatic belt-fed gun, but when it comes to buying a rifle and trying to explain how much fun it is to shoot, this one ranks really high on the list for me. While it's important to have a reliable firearm that you can train with and rely on if something terrible ever arises, there are guns out there that are just amazing to shoot for the experience. The M249S is a fantastic example of how a gun may not be the most practical or multi-purpose, but it's just fun. I’ve shot plenty of firearms like the Barrett M107 and precision rifles for this price and I think this is more user-friendly and more of a laugh than those rifles. I know some of you will completely disagree, but if you're looking to buy something that is just fun to shoot, this M249S is perfect for that. Overall ThoughtsSo yeah, in short, do I think it's worth the $11,000 price tag? The short answer is yes and it's an absolute blast to have at the range, whether you're solo or with friends. It's rare that a gun can just be something that brightens your day, but this rifle is certainly one of those select few options on the market that just oozes personality and fun. I paid for this rifle completely out of pocket with no help and I absolutely do not regret it even slightly. FN M249S Para Check Prices at PSA What do you guys think of the FN M249S Para SAW? Let me know in the comments below. If you have questions about this rifle or firearms in general, be sure to shoot me a message on Instagram @fridgeoperator. Stay safe out there and we will see you in the next review.We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works.