Century Arms CA-3
The Century Arms CA-3 brings the HK G3’s roller-delayed blowback action to the US civilian market as a semi-automatic rifle in 7.62x51mm (.308 Win). Built with an 18” threaded barrel, an A2-style birdcage flash hider, and a fixed stock, the CA-3 gives shooters access to one of the most battle-proven rifle platforms in history — adopted by dozens of militaries worldwide — at a price well below an original HK-manufactured G3.
Read our full Century Arms CA-3 Buying Guide ↓
What Is the Century Arms CA-3?
The CA-3 is Century Arms’ semi-automatic clone of the Heckler & Koch G3 battle rifle, built around the same roller-delayed blowback operating system rather than a gas-piston or direct-impingement design. That roller-delayed action is a defining feature of the G3 platform — distinct from AR-pattern or AK-pattern rifles — and gives the CA-3 a genuinely different shooting feel and manual of arms.
CA-3 Specs: Caliber, Barrel, and Capacity
The CA-3 is chambered in 7.62x51mm (interchangeable with commercial .308 Winchester in most loadings) and ships with an 18” threaded barrel and A2-style birdcage flash hider. It feeds from 20-round magazines and uses a fixed stock and pistol grip in its standard configuration — a faithful nod to the G3’s original military profile.
Roller-Delayed Blowback: Why the G3 Platform Still Matters
The roller-delayed blowback system used in the G3 (and later refined in the HK MP5) is prized for smooth cycling and reliability across a wide range of conditions, which is part of why the platform saw such wide military adoption for decades. For shooters who already own an AR or AK and want a genuinely different action type in their collection, the CA-3 offers that roller-delayed experience in a full-power .308-class rifle.
Frequently Asked Questions: Century Arms CA-3
What caliber is the Century Arms CA-3?
The CA-3 is chambered in 7.62x51mm, which is interchangeable with commercial .308 Winchester in most loadings.
What action does the CA-3 use?
The CA-3 uses a roller-delayed blowback action, the same operating system found in the original HK G3 and HK MP5.
How many rounds does the CA-3 hold?
The CA-3 feeds from 20-round magazines.
Is the CA-3 threaded for a suppressor?
Yes. The CA-3 ships with an 18” threaded barrel under its A2-style birdcage flash hider.
See Also: Century Arms • .308 Semi-Auto Rifles
