7x49mm Liviano

I read that the first Venezuelan FN FAL Rifles (5000) were chambered for the 7x49mm Venezuelan/FN cartridge - time period around 1953. Were these FN FAL's all converted to 7.62x51mm NATO or did they remain in their original caliber for some time? Also read that the 7x49mm was still avilable from FN as late as 1973.

Anyone have additional information?

photo of 7x49mm Liviano cartridge

According to Blake Steven's book on the FAL they were all converted and the ammo appeared on the surplus market in the mid 60s.

What should have been. The FAL in 7x49. I acquired the surplus ammo dated 1955. I had a barrel made and built the rifle. Worked very well. Low recoil and accurate. I was not able to do in full auto for obvious reasons. I believe , however,it would be more controllable. Gary