The AR-15 is a rifle loved and loathed by many in the United States. Its popularity comes from its versatility and customizability – it can be made to fit the specific needs of any shooter. And one of the most important customizable features on an AR-15 is the barrel. So, who makes the best AR 15 barrel? There are a number of factors that go into making a great barrel for an AR-15.
Material
The first consideration is the material from which it is made. Barrels can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, titanium, or carbon fiber. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Steel barrels are tough and durable but tend to be quite heavy; aluminum barrels are light but may not be as strong as steel; titanium barrels are both light and strong but can be expensive; carbon fiber barrels are lightweight and strong but may not be as heat resistant as other materials.
Profile
The next consideration is profile – that is, the shape of the barrel. There are three common profiles: bull, government, and tapered. Bull barrels are thickest in the middle and taper down towards the muzzle; government profiles are thicker at the base than at the muzzle; tapered barrels are thicker in the middle and taper down towards both the muzzle and the base.
Rifling
With AR-15 barrels, rifling is also important. Rifling is the process of adding grooves to the inside of the barrel that causes the bullet to spin as it travels down the barrel. This spinning makes the bullet more stable in flight and thus more accurate. The type of rifling used can affect accuracy, so it’s important to choose a barrel with the right kind of rifling for your needs.
Now that we’ve discussed some of the things to look for in a great AR-15 barrel, let’s take a closer look at some of the companies that make them.
There are many different companies that make barrels for the AR-15, but not all of them are created equal. Here are a few of the best:
1. Ballistic Advantage
Ballistic Advantage is a company that specializes in making high-quality barrels for a variety of different firearms, including the AR-15. They offer barrels in a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber, and in a variety of profiles, including bull, government, and tapered. They also offer barrels with a variety of different kinds of rifling, so you can choose the one that’s best for your needs.
2. Faxon Firearms
Faxon Firearms is another great option for those looking for a high-quality AR-15 barrel. Their barrels are made from 4150 CMV Steel and feature a QPQ Corrosion Resistant Finish. Faxon’s barrels are also nitride treated, which makes them extremely durable.
One of the great things about Faxon’s barrels is that they offer a wide variety of different length and profile options. So, whether you’re looking for a 16″ barrel for your carbine or a 20″ barrel for your rifle, Faxon has you covered. Another nice feature of Faxon’s barrels is that they’re affordable. Their 16″ barrels start at just $135, which is very reasonable.
3. Criterion Barrels
Criterion Barrels is another excellent option for those in the market for an AR-15 barrel. Their barrels are made from 4140 Chrome Moly Steel and feature a Manganese Phosphate Finish. Criterion offers barrels in a variety of different lengths and profiles, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Their barrels are also affordably priced, making them a great option for budget-minded shooters.
4. WOA (Wolverine Supplies)
Wolverine Supplies is a Canadian company that offers a variety of different AR-15 barrels. Their barrels are made from 416R Stainless Steel and feature a QPQ Corrosion Resistant Finish. WOA offers barrels in a variety of lengths and profiles, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
When it comes to accuracy, WOA barrels are some of the most accurate on the market. They offer a variety of different gas systems and twist rates, so you can find the perfect combination for your rifle. And, their barrels are compatible with a wide range of muzzle devices, so you can customize your rifle to your heart’s content.
5. Rainier Arms
Rainier Arms is a company that is known for making high-quality AR 15 barrels. The company offers a wide variety of barrels that are sure to meet the needs of any shooter. Rainier Arms barrels are made from the highest quality materials and are designed to provide the utmost accuracy and reliability.
The company’s barrels are available in a variety of different calibers, including 5.56 NATO, 6.5 Grendel, and 7.62x39mm. Rainier Arms also offers a wide variety of different barrel lengths, from 12 inches all the way up to 24 inches.
No matter what your needs are, Rainier Arms is sure to have a barrel that will meet them. If you are looking for a high-quality AR 15 barrel, then Rainier Arms is the company for you.
6. Aero Precision
Aero Precision is another company that’s well-known for making high-quality AR 15 parts and accessories. Their barrels are no exception, and they offer a variety of different options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a stainless steel or chrome moly barrel, Aero Precision has what you need.
With Aero Precision barrels, you can expect superior accuracy and consistency. They use the latest manufacturing techniques and quality control measures to ensure that their barrels meet the highest standards. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line barrel for your AR 15, Aero Precision is a great option to consider.
7. BCM (Bravo Company Manufacturing)
BCM is one of, if not the most well-known names in the AR 15 world. They make high-quality products that are trusted by military and law enforcement units around the globe. BCM barrels are made from chrome moly vanadium steel and undergo a magnetic particle inspection process to ensure they’re free of any defects.
The barrels are also heat treated and salt bath nitrided to increase durability and corrosion resistance. BCM barrels are available in a variety of lengths and profiles, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
8. Daniel Defense
Daniel Defense is another well-known name in the AR 15 world. Their barrels are some of the most accurate on the market and they offer a variety of different options to choose from. Daniel Defense barrels are made from chrome moly vanadium steel and undergo a magnetic particle inspection process to ensure they’re free of any defects. These barrels are also salt bath nitrided to improve their corrosion resistance and durability.
All of Daniel Defense’s barrels are button rifled and feature a 1:7 twist rate. The company offers barrels in a variety of different lengths and profiles, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
Conclusion
There are a lot of different companies that make AR 15 barrels, and it can be tough to decide which one is the best. However, if you’re looking for the highest quality and most accurate barrels on the market, then you can’t go wrong with any of the companies on this list. Do some research and find the perfect barrel for your needs. And, don’t forget to get a good muzzle device to go with it! With the right parts, you can build the perfect AR 15 for your needs.