Recommendations for 5,56 barrel

[Unknown]

I am considering converting an AR15 from 6.5 Grendel to 5.56x45. In the last 5.56x45 I set up, I used an FN 20 inch chrome bore GI barrel, and was very happy with accuracy and longevity. I have been searching various sites for another FN barrel, without success. I would like a chrome bore barrel in the quality range of FN, Daniel Defense, or similar barrels if people here can tell me which barrel manufacturers products have similar quality. I would prefer 18-20 inch barrels, but have not ruled out a 16 inch barrel. It will be mounted with a free float tube fore end, and used primarily for practical rifle and 3 gun shooting, with personal defense coming in second.

Any recommendations on good quality barrels fitting my parameters will be much appreciated..especially if there are any in stock.

If it helps, I do have a 30 cal Obermeyer 1-11 twist blank in MTU profile for trade stock if that gets me closer to a barrel than cash does.

 

[GillJr]

I've got a Rainer SDM barrel. It is a tack driver. They do have a few 18.barrels in stock now. Mine was worth the cash. Look my review.

 

[Crosshair]

I also have a Rainier barrel, I went with a 16" stainless match 1:8 for my Recce rifle and am extremely happy with it. I recently got a BCM light weight 11.5" and it is great too for a light weight build. Any barrel from a good manufacture will work fine. Cold hammer forged is an excellent way to go for ultimate durability and longevity. For a sub-moa spr I'd go stainless in 1:8 or 1:7. For the money, the Rainier Select Polygonal barrels seem like they are easily one of the best values out there. The ones highest on my personal list are:

Noveske
Rainier
BCM
Daniel Defense
FN
White Oak Armament
Spikes

For length, I'd tend to stay with a 16" or 18", you don't give up too much velocity and the maneuverability and handiness is much better.

 

[ORD]

PK Firearms usually has some FN barrels in stock so I'd try there. Also, the BARFCOM EE is a good place to keep a watchful eye (and if you are a member, a WTB post).

FN also makes barrels for Spike's Tactical...specifically their CHF, Chrome lined tubes. They are as good as it gets for what you are looking for. Not sure on who might have them in stock at this time, but certainly try Spikes, DSG Arms, etc. Not sure about the availability of 18-20" lengths, but I can personally attest to the quality, durability and relative accuracy of their 16" mid-length tubes!

 

[splean]

I have a WOA 20" SDMR barrel in 1-7 that shoots the 77gr SMK very well. It's a very high quality product and I am very pleased with it's performance. Good luck and keep us posted. -Splean

 

[kimberseries1]

Doesn't FN make Palmetto State Armory barrels as well? I know they used to. I assume they still do. Don't know about 20" though.

 

[Black max]

Depending on what Grendel barrel you have, I've got a brand new DD 18" s2w spr barrel I'll trade ya. Let me know if your interested, thanks.

 

[Black max]

Forgot to mention its a 1:7 twist .750 gas block

 

[Unknown]

My Grendel barrel is an 18 inch stainless lothar walther with an FSC30 brake on it.