LESS-THAN-DEADLY AT FN

[BIZ/SCI-TECH: Liège, November 14]
As we reported in Issue 79 (January 29, 2004), FN, the Herstal firearms manufacturer and the University of Liège have signed an R&D contract. Thixomolding and the production of less than lethal weapons were then current areas of shared interest. It now appears that there is renewed interest in less-than-lethal weaponry and the Walloon Region is contributing EUR 500,000 to research on the project in which the University of Liège and FN will be associated. [The civil disorder and crowd control markets look more promising than the Congo basin and are probably politically more acceptable. Ed]. A company description of the current FN 303 follows.

The FN 303 is designed to be the premier system for situations requiring less lethal response. Completely dedicated to reduced lethality and liability, the basis of the FN 303 concept lies in its ammunition. The .68 caliber, 8.5 gram projectiles, utilize a fin-stabilized polystyrene body and non-toxic bismuth forward-payload to provide greater accuracy and effective range than other less-than-lethal weapons.
The primary effect of the projectile is trauma, which directly neutralizes the aggressor. In addition, secondary effects from the projectiles can be delivered via a chemical payload depending on mission requirements. Magazines have a capacity of 15 rounds and a clear rear cover to allow for rapid ammunition count assessment.

The compressed air powered FN 303 launcher is designed to fire less lethal projectiles exclusively, with an effective range of 50 meters at a point specific target for law enforcement and a maximum range of 100 meters for military applications. It is made from a durable, lightweight polymer and features comfortable ergonomics and an easy to operate safety. In addition to the flip-up iron sights, the integrated, Picatinny rail can be used to mount red-dot sights or other accessories. An undercarriage version with mounts is available and may be utilized with most tactical rifles. Accessories for the FN 303 include: compressed air bottle; air filling equipment; tactical vest; sling; and carrying case.
(Source: RTC Television)
http://www.fnhusa.com/contents/ll_303.htm