Barrel selection

[Tim K]

I'm wanting a lighter weight, very durable upper. Historically, I've used 18" SPR barrels from White Oak. I love the accuracy. Every one (of about 10) has yielded 1/4 moa or so. They are heavy and don't seem to be very long lived.

I care less about accuracy for this application and more about light weight and long life. I'm thinking a 16" barrel with weight similar to an M4 profiled barrel. I'm not picky about how it's made or how the rifling is cut. I could live with 1 - 1 1/2 moa accuracy and would like the longest life possible.

I've never given this a thought before and have absolutely no experience with anything but precision type barrels. Point me in the right direction. Cost is not a factor.

[asmo]

I'm a big fan of compass lake engineering, but that's more for my precision guns. I have about 6k through a 11.5 BCM that is showing no signs of stopping any time soon.

[ray1970]

Probably just about anything hammer forged and chrome lined should meet your criteria. BCM, Daniel Defense, etc.

[J]

Love my DD 14.5 pencil profile CHF middy. Not for long range, but shoots near 1MOA and is insanely light.

[thvigil11]

If you wanna go old school, I suggest this.



If you want something more lightweight and resistant to moisture. Go with this.


For durability though, I suggest this one here.




Just had to do it.

[esaabye]

How many rounds are you getting out of them? I assume you are shooting 77's.

i get 2500-3000 out of a WOA 20 using 2/3 77's and 1/3 80's

[Tim K]

How many rounds are you getting out of them? I assume you are shooting 77's.

i get 2500-3000 out of a WOA 20 using 2/3 77's and 1/3 80's

Hah. I wish I knew. I honestly don't know even within 1,000 rounds. When I started on precision ARs, I did not expect to shoot them much so I didn't bother keeping count. I'm noticing some small loss of accuracy in one, but I don't know if it has 1,500 or 2,500 rounds down it. I'll actually pay attention after I rebarrel it.

I want an upper I can shoot the crap out of and not worry about it. I'll look into the barrels suggested do far.

[mcantar18c]

Noveske CHF.

[thvigil11]

On a serious note. I am liking my rainier arms select stainless. I've been trying to justify a new build to try out a local barrel makers offerings. (Elysium Arms) They are making a wide variety of profiles. I liked what they were calling a 16" MK12 profile.

[MarkCO]

Take a look at Del-Ton barrels. They are Wilson made and can be ordered chrome-lined. I have been shocked at the accuracy I have gotten out of them (sub MOA with AE55 and Nosler 69s), and they are cheap. I am well over 10K with no indications of gas port erosion and no change in group size. Mine is a lightweight 16" mid-length.

http://www.del-ton.com/AR_15_16_Mid_...l_p/bl1088.htm

If you do not wants the FSB, barrel nut and handguard cap, order over the phone and they will delete and give you a credit. I think mine was $130.