When it comes to AR10 platforms such as the 308 Winchester, you know as well as I do that the barrel isn’t just another component—it’s the heart of the rifle.
And finding a manufacturer who understands this as well as we do isn’t always easy. That’s where Faxon Firearms comes into play.
Their lineup is pretty impressive. Whether you’re looking for different lengths up to 24 inches, a sleek Salt Bath Nitride finish, the right gas system (be it carbine, mid-length, or rifle-length), or even specific barrel fluting, Faxon has got you covered.
And let’s talk profiles—Big Gunner, Heavy Fluted, or Pencil. Faxon doesn’t skimp on materials, either, using top-notch 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium or 416R Stainless Steel, all rifled meticulously for the best shot velocity and accuracy you could ask for.
The Importance of Barrel Selection
Choosing a barrel is like choosing a loyal companion—it’s got to be perfect for you.
It’s not just about picking the one with the flashiest look or the most affordable price tag. Your AR10’s performance is directly tied to the barrel’s length, the material, the twist rate, and the profile.
I remember the first time I swapped barrels in my AR10. It was a Faxon barrel—16" mid-length, 1:10 twist. The difference was like night and day.
The precision, the stability—I was hitting bullseyes like it was my job. And guess what? It was all because of that excellent piece of engineering from Faxon.
Before we get into finding the best AR 10 barrel, let’s answer some of the most common questions about AR10 barrel selection.
308 Barrel Length Considerations
There is more to consider about the barrel length than its effect on velocity and accuracy. For example, the barrel length you choose will dictate your choice of accessories such as handguards. Do you want something that just goes past the gas block, or do you want something that runs the full length out to the muzzle?
This can be important for aesthetic or practical reasons, such as ensuring that a suppressor or other muzzle device has enough clearance between the end of the muzzle and the handguard. A longer handguard provides more real estate for accessories like optics, sling mounts, and bipods. Keep in mind that the length of the barrel will play a major part in the overall weight of the rifle, which is something to consider if this is a hunting setup.
What is the optimal barrel length for 308?
Barrels lengths for AR10 calibers range from 16" up to 24". Although 20" seems to be the sweet spot for the 308, with the right barrel you can get away with using a 16" barrel.
How accurate is a 308 16 inch barrel?
A 16" barrel will do you just fine until get out to and past 600 yards. The 308 round will drop significantly past 600 yards, so if you’re going to be engaging targets at distances past 600 yards, you’d be better off with a 20" barrel.
Is an 18 inch barrel good for an AR 10?
Most 308 WIN loads get full powder burn at roughly 18 inches of barrel length. For a general-purpose AR10 build, an 18-inch barrel will do you just fine.
However, even in 18-inch barrels, the profile and gas system length can determine weight. 18-inch barrels can range from a Faxon pencil to a thicker Big Gunner profile, and come in both mid and rifle length types.
Best 308 Winchester Barrel
Below you’ll find a list of barrels available for your next AR-10 build or upgrade.
I’ve been around firearms for a good chunk of my life, and I’ve seen all kinds of manufacturers. Some are pretty good, and others… well, not so much.
But when it comes to Faxon Firearms, they’re not just in the game; they’re playing a leading role.
With their steadfast dedication to using the finest materials and their forward-thinking manufacturing techniques, Faxon Firearms is the gold standard.
I’ve fired countless rounds through their barrels over the years, and let me tell you, their performance is as reliable as the sunrise.
FAQ
What is the most Accurate AR10 Barrel?
The Faxon Match Series AR10 barrels take renowned performance and value up a notch.
Manufactured in-house from gun-barrel-quality bar-stock, the Match Series barrels start with 416-R in 5R rifling. 5R is a hybrid rifling, with lands opposite grooves and reduced sharp angles that reduce jacket deformation increasing velocity and easy cleaning. After rigorous testing, the barrels are Nitride treated inside and out, locking in the bore, extending barrel life, and keeping the elements at bay.
The extension is coated in a Nickel Teflon coating that maintains incredible dry lubricity and corrosion resistance. The Nickel Teflon coating also tightens up the fit between the extension and receiver, further improving accuracy. The Faxon AR10 Match Series barrels are ready for when duty calls with unrivaled performance.
What is the best length barrel for the AR10?
The best barrel length for an AR10 largely depends on the intended use of the rifle. Here are some general guidelines to consider:
Short Barrels (16-18 inches):
Advantages: Lighter weight, increased maneuverability, and easier to transport. Ideal for close to medium range engagements or when weight and size constraints are critical.
Disadvantages: Slightly reduced bullet velocity compared to longer barrels. Some may also argue that there’s more perceived recoil and muzzle blast.
Medium Barrels (18-20 inches):
Advantages: Balanced performance in terms of velocity, accuracy, and maneuverability. A popular choice for many general-purpose roles.
Disadvantages: Heavier than shorter barrels, but still a manageable weight for most.
Long Barrels (20-24 inches or more):
Advantages: Maximizes bullet velocity which can enhance long-range accuracy. Often preferred for precision shooting or long-range hunting.
Disadvantages: Increased weight and length can make it less maneuverable and harder to transport.
What is the most accurate barrel for a 308?
When choosing the most accurate barrel for a .308 rifle, there are several factors to consider. While the .308 caliber itself is known for its accuracy, the precision of a shot depends not just on the caliber but also on the quality and characteristics of the barrel.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
Material & Craftsmanship: High-quality stainless steel barrels are often preferred for precision shooting. The manufacturing process, rifling method (e.g., button rifling, cut rifling), and the expertise of the manufacturer play a significant role in barrel accuracy.
Barrel Length: While the optimal barrel length for a .308 often ranges between 20-24 inches, the exact length for peak accuracy depends on specific uses and shooter preferences. Longer barrels might offer better velocity, while shorter ones provide maneuverability.
Twist Rate: A common twist rate for .308 is 1:10, suitable for a wide range of bullet weights. However, the best twist rate can vary depending on the specific bullet weight you plan to shoot frequently.
Profile/Contour: Heavier barrel profiles, like the bull barrel, can be more accurate due to increased rigidity and reduced harmonic vibration. However, they’re also heavier to carry.
Free-Floating: A free-floating barrel doesn’t come into contact with the stock, which can enhance accuracy by preventing external pressures on the barrel.
Muzzle Devices: While not part of the barrel itself, muzzle brakes or suppressors can affect recoil and muzzle rise, influencing the shooter’s ability to maintain accuracy, especially during follow-up shots.
What is the best barrel length for 6.5 Creedmoor AR10?
The ideal barrel length for a 6.5 Creedmoor AR10 largely depends on the intended purpose:
Precision Long-Range Shooting (1,000+ yards): Typically, a barrel length of 24 inches is recommended. This length maximizes velocity, providing an optimal bullet trajectory over longer distances.
Hunting and General Use: For most hunting scenarios and general purposes, a 20 to 24-inch barrel provides a good balance between accuracy, ballistics, and maneuverability.
Compact Needs & Tactical Scenarios: If portability and close-quarter maneuverability are a priority, you might prefer a shorter barrel, around 18 to 20 inches. However, be mindful that shorter barrels might sacrifice some velocity and long-range precision.
How far is the AR10 accurate?
The AR10 is a semi-automatic rifle designed for precision and versatility. Its effective range largely depends on the specific build, ammunition used, and shooter skill. However, generally speaking:
Typical Effective Range: The AR10, when chambered in .308 Winchester/7.62x51mm NATO, is commonly accurate up to 600-800 yards.
Maximum Effective Range: With the right optics, ammunition, and training, some shooters can achieve accuracy up to 1,000 yards or more.
It’s essential to note that environmental factors like wind, temperature, and altitude can influence accuracy. Also, consistent results require regular maintenance and using quality ammunition. Always test and practice with your specific AR10 to determine its accurate range.
Table of Contents
The Importance of Barrel Selection
308 Barrel Length Considerations
What is the optimal barrel length for 308?
How accurate is a 308 16 inch barrel?
Is an 18 inch barrel good for an AR 10?
Best 308 Winchester Barrel
Faxon Match 16” Heavy Fluted, 308 WIN
Specs
Faxon Match 18” Heavy Fluted, 308 WIN
Specs
Best 6.5 Creedmoor Barrel
Faxon Match 16” Big Gunner, 6.5 Creedmoor
Specs
Faxon Match 18” Big Gunner, 6.5 Creedmoor
Specs
Faxon Match 20” Big Gunner, 6.5 Creedmoor
Specs
Why Choose Faxon Firearms?
FAQ
What is the most Accurate AR10 Barrel?
What is the best length barrel for the AR10?
What is the most accurate barrel for a 308?
What is the best barrel length for 6.5 Creedmoor AR10?
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