Lightweight SBR barrels

[Tim K]

I need to build the lightest weight upper possible that will shoot 1 moa or so. I don't care much about twist rate, I'll adjust the bullet appropriately. Sub 16" length is preferred, though not mandatory.

WOA has 10.5" in 1-7, but the profile looks heavier than necessary. From my previous WOA experience, it's almost sure to be accurate. It's 1.5#. It seems like it should be possible to get another 1/4 to 1/2# out of a barrel that length.

Like an idiot, I agreed to do the SAC again next year. I'm the carbine shooter, and this time I'm going to carry the lightest dang rifle I can build.

[Great-Kazoo]

16" Bushmaster SuperLight Barrel Assembly
The lightest 16" barrel we've ever offered - tapers from .670" to .565" under handguards, .625" under sightbase, and to .570" at the muzzle - similar to the original Vietnam era A1 barrel profile. Assembly includes Bayonet Lug, Threaded Muzzle, A2 Birdcage Flash Suppressor, Handguards, Gas Tube, and Delta Ring Kit.

NOTE: due to diameter at muzzle, no "slip-on/pinned" type muzzle brakes will fit this barrel. Use only 1/2"x 28 T.p.I. threaded accessories.


IIRC Beast556 has or had one.

[cstone]

I like the two barrels I've gotten from Ballistic Advantage.

Is this too heavy?

http://ballisticadvantage.com/10-5-inch-556-hanson-carbine-cmv-performance-barrel.html

[Tim K]

That looks about right. Have you tried to develop an accurate load for them?

[asmo]

Call the guys at Compass Lake, tell them what you are trying to do. I am sure they will build/profile a pencil barrel for you that will meet your needs.

[cstone]

That looks about right. Have you tried to develop an accurate load for them?

My BA barrels are an 8.5" .300 Blk pistol and a 16" 5.45 government profile. I never considered them as long distance marksman weapons. The barrels seem to be good quality and once zeroed, both will shoot whatever I have fed them and do so consistently. I don't tailor rounds for them but shoot whatever I have on hand. For the price, I would buy another BA barrel.

[ray1970]

If I were in your shoes, Tim, here's what I'd do.

I'd buy whatever barrel it is that you think will meet your quality and accuracy requirements (like the WOA you mentioned) and then have Bert turn it down to whatever profile you want.

I've taken really heavy profile barrels that I picked up at a bargain price and had them turned down to be really light.

[Tim K]

Now that's an insightful idea, Ray. What's gotten into you?

[ray1970]

Eh. Even a blind pig finds a truffle every once in a while.
[Awesom]

[esaabye]

So I have a WOA 20 SR with about 3500 down the pipe just sitting on the bench. What does it run to re profile, cut and crown a barrel? Do you just redrill a gas port based on your overall length needed?

[Tim K]

I have the same basic thing on my bench as well. I'm worried about the new gas port needing to land in a groove.