Barrels stand among the most commonly-upgraded items of an AR-15. A barrel directly affects the accuracy and weight of your rifle and a good barrel is essential for taking precise shots.
Here weโll be talking about the factors you must consider before buying a new barrel for your AR-15.
Weโll also outline some of the best AR-15 barrels available on the market to help you make a buying decision.
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Barrels
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How to Choose an AR-15 Barrel
From build material to length and profile to twist rate, there are several important factors you must consider before choosing a new barrel for your AR-15. Qualities such as corrosion resistance, extended life, weight, shooting high- vs low-velocity ammo are specific to different types of barrels. Barrels will vary in price based on a wide variety of factors, but finally it's all about your personal discretion and taste.
Chrome or Stainless Steel
A chrome-lined barrel features a slick chrome lining on the inside of the barrel.This helps prevent the inside of the barrel from corrosion and any wear and tear as a result of fouling.
Chrome-lined barrels are easy to clean and have a longer life, especially in extreme conditions such as deserts and saltwater.
Stainless steel barrels (also known as match grade barrels), on the other hand, have a comparatively shorter life than chrome lined barrels but they are precisely accurate at greater distances.
Chrome-lined barrels have a longer life. However, the surface does affect accuracy over long distances (beyond three hundred yards) because on a microscopic scale, the chrome lining is not even.
One more important thing to note here is that โshort life spanโ doesnโt mean two or three years. A short lifespan usually falls in the range of 8-10 years of rigorous use. Chrome-lined barrels are always good, but if you are more inclined towards taking long-range shots, you must consider buying a stainless steel barrel for your AR-15.
Profile
The profile simply refers to the shape of a barrel. This shape affects the weight of the barrel and so the gunโs overall weight. Some of the most common barrel profiles include pencil, M4 Government and Recce.
Additionally, the barrels with heavy profiles offer enough thermal mass to absorb and resist a lot of heat during full-auto shooting.
Pencil barrels, as the name suggests, are lighter and suitable for single shot or semi-auto shooting. A Recce (military slang for reconnaissance) falls more on the heavier side with a mid-length gas system. Itโs also heavy under the guard, where the extra weight provides useful thermal mass.
The most popular barrel profile these days is the M4. It is more of a mixture of heavy and lightweight barrels. The M4 is lightweight under the handguard and thickens just before the gas port. This extra weight helps a bit to stabilize the rifle for offhand shooting. The M4 profile barrel features a notch on top for mounting the M203 grenade launcher and is used by the military. Since civilians donโt have access to it, they use the M4 government barrel which lacks the notch.
Heavy profile barrels are no doubt costlier than lighter ones, and you should consider buying them only when you need to perform full auto shooting.
Barrel Twist Rates
Simply put, the twist rate of a barrel is the ratio of the number of inches a bullet must travel within the barrel to complete a number of rotations. For example, a 1:7 twist ratio means that a bullet has to travel seven inches to complete one rotation. In accordance with physics, the larger the number of rotations a round makes, the more stable it is. The most common twist ratio is 1:9.
At the same time, itโs important to note here that twist rates differ largely with the weight (grain) of the bullets being fired. Bullets with heavier weights need lower or you can say โquickerโ twist rates so the bullet is stable even at long distances.
For instance, an 80-grain round must have a twist rate of 1:7. But good AR-15 ammo is quite rare to find, and youโll end up with shooting 55-grain rounds anyhow. The ideal twist rate for a 55-grain round is 1:9, and thatโs the most common twist rate for barrels these days.
So before choosing a barrel, ask yourself what youโll use your AR-15 for. If you love to shoot long range, go for barrels with faster twist rates.
Length
The length of a barrel directly impacts the accuracy of a rifle. The AR-15 was originally designed to have a 20-inch long barrel, but with changes and customizations, the barrel length for AR-15 ranges from 7โ to 24โ, with the most common being 16โ.
The rule is clear: the longer the barrel, the better the accuracy of a rifle. Thatโs because longer barrels tend to provide more length for twisting and more space to build up sufficient pressure for peak ammo acceleration.
Barrels more than 16โ in length donโt require a Class III Tax Stamp, but shorter ones do. Shorter barrels provide better maneuverability and are good for close combat and home-defense situations. Also remember that an inch of increase in barrel length also results in an increase in fps velocity. Again, it comes down to what youโre looking to use the gun and barrel for.
Milled vs. Cold Hammer Forged
Cold forging the steel creates a harder, more wear-resistant surface. In cold-hammer forging, a mandrel is inserted into the barrel and the surface is hammered from multiple sides using a hydraulic machine.
On the other hand, milled barrels tend to be less wear-resistant compared to these CHF barrels. However, the difference is almost negligible for a normal shooter. If you are planning to buy a CHF barrel, be prepared to shed 75 to 100 dollars extra.
Review of the Best Barrels for the AR-15
Letโs have a look at some of the best AR-15 barrels on the market. Read the article for reviews and an analysis of what to look for when you want to upgrade your AR-15 barrel.
Best Overall:
Faxon Firearms AR-15 Gunner Barrel
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New users were quite happy with the barrel. They said that it allowed for consistently accurate shooting right out of the gate. The installation process didnโt take too long for most users. One user said he removed his old factory default barrel and replaced it with this one in nearly five minutes flat.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This barrel is exclusively designed for 5.56 NATO rounds. It will handle the larger rounds that an AR-15 rifle can fire. It can handle so many episodes of multiple gunfires that it might be considered one of the toughest barrels on the block. So, if you want something that will last you a long time and deliver accurate shooting in the process, youโd be hard-pressed to find a barrel-like this anywhere else.
Faxon GUNNER barrels for the AR are highly-regarded among professional shooters, as they have a very unique and innovative profile. Utilizing a government profile dimension from extension to the .625โ gas block, with a pencil profile from the gas block to the front, this provides exceptional performance. Because this removes excess weight from the barrelโs front, it provides improved versatility.
Not only that, but heat resistance is improved for greater life of your weaponโs components, and the whip is reduced. This particular 14.5โ barrel only weighs a total of 1.2 pounds, providing immediately clear results. Your barrel tolerances will be much tighter, and your accuracy will improve even at long distances.
Only the best materials are used for these barrels, including 4150 CMV steel. Faxon barrels are all stress relieved, crowned with an 11-degree target, and are air-gauge tested. Upholding their reputation as a premier manufacturer, Faxon runs every single barrel through testing before applying a nitride finish. If youโre looking to improve performance and increase the long-term health of your AR-15, Faxon Firearms GUNNER Barrels are a great place to start.
Who Will Use This Most
If you own an AR-15 that is chambered in 5.56 NATO rounds, youโve got a barrel that you can use. If you want to replace your factory default with a high-performing, super durable barrel then this might be the kind youโre looking for. Once youโve installed this, donโt be surprised if your AR-15 rifle suddenly becomes a sharpshooter from about 100 to 200 yards out.
Bottom Line
The Faxon Firearms AR-15 Gunner Barrel will fit almost any 5.56 NATO chambered AR-15 rifle possible. Itโs a lightweight, tough, and reliable barrel that will be fun to use after installation. Once installed, youโll be dying to give this a spin at the range or out in the field.
Faxon Firearms is one of the best manufacturers on the market, and their AR-15 GUNNER Barrel will produce exceptional results backed by rigorous testing. While replacing a barrel is a little pricey, itโs a simple upgrade that makes a huge difference, and Faxon Firearms ensures you have the best.Best for the Money:
Brownells - 5.56mm 1-7 Govt. Barrel
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New buyers were quite satisfied with the barrel in general. They noticed right away how durable it is from the inside and out. Once installed, they noticed tight shooting groups right out of the gate. One user said that his shooting groups were an inch apart while shooting targets from 100 to 150 yards out.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This barrel is designed to fit mid-length gas systems. Since itโs at 16 inches, it is at the perfect length to handle them. On top of that, these barrels meet the requirements in some states where gun laws still allow AR-15s but usually place restrictions on them for certain things (like barrel length). If you want a barrel that will meet most of the state compliance (regardless of which one youโre in) this barrel might be exactly what youโre looking for.
Brownells is widely regarded among professional shooters as a provider of high-quality components that also provide a great price-point, and their Mid-Length Gas System Barrel is no exception. Manufactured from 4150V steel and finished with a nitride coating, their barrels provide exceptional harness, very easy cleaning, and great lubricity. They have a 1:7 twist for rifle, and 1:9 twist for pistol length.
One thing Brownells is known for is easy installation. This barrel is no exception, as youโll be up and running very quickly. There are no function or feeding issues, and you can expect little to no break-in time thanks to the nitride coating. Machining and accuracy are all top-notch, and youโll notice virtually no difference in hot bore or cold bore shots. Additionally, the recoil is exceptional, which further improves shooting accuracy.
While Brownells does not introduce unique innovations into their products, and this barrel is no exception, thatโs all right. What you do get is a great quality barrel that will enhance performance and potentially last for thousands of shots without any issues. Given their barrels are very competitively priced, they make excellent initial investments for those on a budget.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be an excellent barrel for you if youโre AR-15 rifle is equipped with a mid-length gas system. It will also come in handy if you need a new barrel for your AR-15 that is designed for hunting varmint or big game targets. It will be quite accurate across some impressive distances. So, if you need a barrel that is miles above the average mid-length barrel, go with this one in particular.
Bottom Line
The Brownellโs B-Tac AR-15 5.56 Barrel will be best for almost any mid-length gas system rifle. Durable, easy to install, and super accurate, itโs the kind of barrel that will give you an instant boost in performance once you can install this.
Brownells produces high-quality barrels at an exceptional price-point, making them great for those just starting out with modifications or on a budget. While you wonโt get luxurious extra features, you will enjoy a solid upgrade that will last for many years and will seriously improve performance.
3. Ballistics Advantage AR-15 Hanson Profile 5.56 Barrel
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New buyers were quick to point out a few things with this barrel. First and foremost, they were able to install within a couple of minutes. They also were able to shoot tighter groups from 100 yards or more at the range. This barrel was best used for target shooting and fits more with AR-15 pistols and even some rifles.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The barrel is the shortest on the list, measured at 7.5 inches. It might be an unusual length for most AR-15 rifles, but it can stand out better with AR-15 pistols since the latter is usually compatible with most AR-15 parts and accessories. Although itโs short and stout, it proves itself to be reliable even after going through hundreds of rounds. Just because itโs short and lightweight, doesnโt mean itโs considered weak and fragile.
Ballistics Advantage offers a good diversity of products and this barrel doesnโt disappoint. Itโs โHanson profileโ give it a heavier look with many of the function (like heat absorption) of a heavy barrel. But it weighs less than other barrels in its class.
The barrel comes in various lengths, from 7.5โ to 16โ. All feature a low-profile gas block. The 16โ model has a 1:7 twist rate and a mid-length gas block. It has a QPQ (Melonite) finish, which is a newer type that is supposed to have all the advantages of chrome without the drawbacks in accuracy.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be perfect for AR-15 pistols for the most part. It can be used on some shorter barreled rifles as well (if legal in your jurisdiction). If you want a barrel that will provide tight shooting at some pretty good distances and will be great for casual and competitive target shooting, youโd be insane to pass up the opportunity to give this barrel a closer look.
Bottom Line
The Hanson Series AR-15 Barrel might be the best barrel for your AR-15 pistol. Itโs accurate, reliable, and can last you many years or even decades (so long as you take good care of your pistol). It might be shorter than an AR-15 barrel on the market, but make no mistake about it...it can do some serious damage.
4. Daniel Defense AR-15 Rifle Barrel
The Daniel Defense match-grade barrel has been manufactured from high-grade chromium-molybdenum-vanadium alloy steel. Itโs calibrated for5.56x45 rounds and offers five different lengths ranging from 10.5 inches to 16 inches.
These barrels are rifled (milled) and lapped for precision and maintaining the accuracy of the bore. Plus, these barrels are available in lightweight or government contours, and also the M4 profile for the 14.5โ length.
The barrel does not have a gas block port machined already so that's both a positive and a negative feature. While you have to spend some extra money for a gunsmith to get it machined for the gas block, on the other hand, it allows for better customization.
Itโs easy to fit on all rifles ready to accept it. This barrel is perfect for competitive shooting and target practice and offers good value for money.
5. Colt AR-15/M-16 16โ 5.56 Barrel Assembly
This 5.56 barrel is an exceptional product from Colt, the renowned manufacturer of weapons. Milled from stainless steel and chrome-lined on the inside, it offers better corrosion resistance and durability.
The barrel is 16 inches long and is chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO rounds. The barrel has a 1:7 twist rate which makes it suitable for heavy rounds.
Barrel assemblies include a front sight base, front sight tower and parts, handguard cap and barrel nut. The muzzle has also been threaded to allow installation of a muzzle brake or flash suppressor.
The Colt AR-15 barrel is perfect for long distance shooting, competitions, hunting and practically any shooting application youโll subject your AR-15 to. The barrel is fairly priced and bears the assurance and warranty of a renowned manufacturer.
6. Geissele AR-15 Match Grade Barrel
The Geissele barrel is a stainless steel cold hammer forged barrel featuring a .223 chamber. These barrels are High Pressure Tested (HPT) and Magnetic Particle Inspected (MPI) to ensure flawless quality and endurance over the long run.
These barrels have a twist rate of 1:7โ, good enough for rounds in the range of 69 to 80 grains.
These barrels are available in five different lengths, making it a versatile choice for everything from plinking to long-distance shooting and gun competitions. The gas port is mid-length and carbine variants depending on their length and have a single dimple for gas block set screw.
The barrel is suitable for .223 Rem ammo; just remember not to load and fire 5.56mm rounds.
The Geissele barrel also has 1/2x28" threads on the front to allow the installation of muzzle devices like a flash hider or suppressor. Overall, it is a quality pick for users who want exceptionally high quality and performance regardless of the price.
7. Rainier Arms AR-15/M-16 223 Wylde Match Barrels
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New buyers were quite satisfied with the barrel in general. They were satisfied with the lighter weight and durability of the barrel itself. Once installed, they immediately noticed their shooting groups getting quite tight. One user said that after test-firing a full magazine at 100 yards, the shooting groups near the bullseye were quite close together.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This barrel is made from high-quality steel, and itโs proven to be compatible with most AR-15 rifles. Simply put, this is one of the best barrels that you can find for such a rifle. If youโre looking for a rifle that will handle shot after shot for a long time, this will probably be the barrel youโll want to use as a replacement for your factory default.
These Rainier Arms match barrels have been milled from stainless steel to the highest quality and contour. The barrel has been chambered in .223 Wylde to let you shoot .223 Remington and 5.56x45 NATO.
The barrel offers a 1:8 twist rate, suitable for both heavy and light ammunition. Combining this quality with the non-chromed lining, this barrel also allows you to take long-range shots. The manufacturer also guarantees these to shoot sub-MOA with match-grade ammunition.
The bead-blasted stainless steel appearance offers a unique finish to the barrel. These barrels are available in 14.5โ, 16โ and 18โ variants. The former two have mid-length gas systems whereas the 18โ barrel has a rifle-length gas system. The barrel is solid and delivers exceptional accuracy.
The only downside of this barrel is the weight.
These barrels are perfect for competitive shooting, hunting and self-defense.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be used across many applications. If youโre a hunter, a casual target shooter or a competitive shooter this barrel will work to your advantage. It will last you quite a while if you do your best to keep it clean regularly. If you want a barrel that is the perfect replacement for your factory default, donโt be afraid to give this one a go.
Bottom Line
The Rainier Arms AR-15/M16 Wylde Match Barrel might be the toughest barrel of the bunch. But it can work with pretty much any AR-15 rifle out there. If you want something way better in quality than a factory default barrel, this barrel could be exactly what youโre looking for.
How to Install an AR-15 Barrel
While installing a barrel is relatively straightforward, it can be confusing the first time. Read our steps below while referencing our video for visual cues to make the process a breeze:
- Ensure you have snap ring pliers, a wrench and torque wrench, grease, and a receiver clamp.
- Attach the weld spring, delta ring, and snap ring onto the barrel nut. First, place the weld spring in the delta ring, and place the delta ring and weld spring on the nut. Clip on the snap ring. Grease the barrel extension to prevent galvanic corrosion.
- Align the recess on the upper receiver with the index pin and push the upper and barrel together. Apply extra grease to the upper receiver threads.
- Thread the barrel nut assembly by hand onto the upper.
- Time for the receiver clamp, as well as the torque wrench. Tighten and un-tighten to seat the threading. Torque from 30 ft lbs to 80 ft lbs. You want a gap between teeth at 12 oโclock of the upper, and 12 oโclock for the weld spring, delta ring, and C-clamp.
- Time for the gas tube. Gather it along with the tube roll pin, punch, and hammer.
- Slide the tube into the upper receiver. Push the gas tube front onto the front sight base. There are two holes that go through here, one for gas and one for the roll pin. Slide the tube into place and align the holes.
- Install the roll pin with a punch and hammer. It only takes a little pressure to do so. Youโre done!
Fluting - Does it Make a Difference?
Fluting refers to the act of removing some material from the barrelโs surface (except over the gas blocks). The three most basic reasons for doing it are weight reduction, faster cooling and imparting rigidity.
For fluting, several grooves are carved upon the barrel. This reduces a tiny amount of material from the barrel, making it lighter. Additionally, the grooves increase the surface area of the barrel, facilitating quick cooling.
Especially during full-auto shooting. fluting doesnโt really impart rigidity to the barrel, but it surely helps in removing manufacturing defects.
One very indirect benefit of fluting is related to aesthetics. Fluting makes the barrel look beautiful and sassy, especially with a lot of the patterns available today.
Fluting does help in reducing the weight of the AR-15 as well as with cooling. It might also impart rigidity to the barrel if done properly while maintaining the ratio of strength to weight.
Is There a โBestโ Barrel?
There are several properties which make up an ideal barrel. But in the end, it is your intended purpose of using the AR-15 which defines a โbest barrelโ for your needs.
Some very basic factors which depend upon the use are lining, length and twist rate. If you are more into long range shooting (300 yards plus), you need to go for a 16-plus-inch-long stainless steel barrel without lining and a twist rate of 1:8 or 1:7. If your intent is short range shooting, target practice or plinking, chrome-lined barrels will do the job for you. Barrel length and twist rate donโt matter much for close-quarter shooting.
If you are still trying to figure out a perfect barrel for your AR-15, here are some specs. A cold-hammer forged chrome lined M4 Government profile Chrome-Moly Steel barrel with a twist rate of 1:8 and approximately 18 inches in length with parallel fluting will be an ideal barrel for your AR-15. These specs will make it fit exactly in between the high-end and low-end barrels, as well as balancing all the factors for long as well as short-range use.
Conclusion
A barrel is a primary component affecting the accuracy of a rifle. Selecting a suitable barrel for your AR-15 depends entirely upon your intended use of your rifle. Factors such as build material, inner lining, chamber, length, twist rate and machining must be seen as basic considerations.
Fluting can further be considered if you are concerned with cooling rates and the aesthetics of your rifle. Different combinations of materials and measurements prove suitable for different shooting conditions.
