Can someone quickly point out the differences from the first generation Tavor (November 2010 - looking at one) to the current ones (or should I just buy the current one), other than the flattop? Much apprecaited.
The first-generation Tavors had a Meprolight M21 reflex optic that mounted directly to the barrel assembly, as well as a front flip-up BUIS and semi-fixed rear BUIS. Dlask and CanadaAmmo both manufactured low profile rails (the Dlask rail was longer and mounted lower). The earliest versions had a solid hand guard, and later ones had a pre-drilled hole for mounting a bipod. These initially shipped with a mil-spec bolt which caused sporadic slam-fires when using commercial grade ammunition (switching to ammo with mil-spec primers resolved this). These were later upgraded with a new civilian bolt and spring for the firing pin.
The second-generation (current) Tavors have a flat top rail, with integrated front and rear flip-up BUIS. No optic, although some apparently also have a second set of removable BUIS in addition to the integrated ones. The hand guard on these is also pre-drilled for a bipod as well. This generation features the civilian bolt with spring.
CanadaAmmo imported several CTAR (380mm length) barrels for those interested in converting their Tavor from non-restricted to restricted (quantity unknown, but they are fairly rare). These IWI factory barrels, while not match barrels - are apparently very accurate.
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The first-generation Tavors can still be a good deal (depending on condition and round count), especially if they come with the M21 sight (since you can usually sell this for a few hundred dollars). However, unless you're able to source a low profile picatinny rail, the Tavor barrel wrench and the Armorer's manual -
you're going to be limited to the M21 (not everyone's preference). You'll also want to confirm that the bolt has been upgraded - otherwise you'll need to source a new bolt and spring for the firing pin.
Hope this helps, but if you have any additional questions fire away!