Gunsmithing Barrels--is cost the big factor

[EDELWEISS]

Who makes good barrels> How to choose? Is cost the big factor in knowing a good barrel from a poor one?

I know the "big" names; but not some of the lessor names? Is that the clue to go by? Ballistic Advantage? Black Hole?

 

[Codiekfx400]

What caliber are you looking for? What will it be used for?

 

[...]

Who makes good barrels> How to choose? Is cost the big factor in knowing a good barrel from a poor one?

I know the "big" names; but not some of the lessor names? Is that the clue to go by? Ballistic Advantage? Black Hole?

assuming you are building a precision bolt gun, and weight isnt terribly crutial...

look at what top shooters are using.

cost is an indicator to an extent....you arent likely to find match quality barrels for $70......but that doesnt mean that a $700 barrel is better than a $300 barrel.

generally in the ballpark of $250-500 will get you a great shooting barrel (for all "standard" calibers)

i like Shillen barrels personally.

 

[GH41]

The barrel maker's reputation is what cost. A good reputation is built by paying attention to what you are doing. That includes QC and hand finishing. That cost the builder money. The other truth is, not that many people make their own barrels. 4-5 manufacturers probably make 95% of AR barrels produced in America. You may or may not get an inexpensive barrel that shoots. You improve your chances by buying from a builder with a good reputation.

 

[GH41]

He mentioned barrel brands who sell AR barrels.

 

[EDELWEISS]

I was originally thinking 308 AR barrels but I’m not fixed on just that. I have a Proof Carbon fiber barrel waiting for o bolt gun build but I just bought a Ballisict Research barrel for a 308 AR10 hunting/fun gun.

It’s just that got years I’ve heard “you need a_______” barrel and I’m starting to wonder. I was toying with Black Hole polygonal rifled barrel just cuz HK used polygonal rifling but no clue if it’s better. One builder (who did not have a Black Hole) told me the ones he had in stock were the best but I’m not convinced it wasn’t partially because he had them in stock???

 

[Jcarpenter223]

As stated, cost is indicative of the builder of that barrel. Ive traveled down the road of buying cheap just to buck the trend and ive had hit or miss with those 6 or so barrels with combos of factory ammo and handloads. I bought a competition barrel for 3 gun and paid around $270 and had under moa at 300 easily woth factory ammo and under half moa with handloads.

Now that im venturing into precision rifle im perfectly ok with spending the money on a quality barrel and or parts because i know that it is a factor in hitting what im aiming at

 

[Deleted member 113831]

I have been considering Lothar Walther. A friend of mine has one with 20,000 documented rounds down the barrel and it is still sub-minute.

Edit to add: It's a 308.

 

[Ravenyzf-r6]

Desert Tech uses LW barrels with obviously good results.