First Impressions of Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel
The AR-15 platform is arguably the most versatile firearm system ever devised. Its modularity allows for endless customization, and the heart of any AR-15 is its barrel. I was intrigued when I saw the Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel offered at such an accessible price point, promising to deliver FN Herstal quality without the FN Herstal price tag.
My AR-15 build was suffering from inconsistent accuracy with the original barrel, so I needed a reliable replacement. I was looking for something that could provide consistent performance without breaking the bank. After researching several options, the Diamondback Firearms barrel stood out due to its purported FN Herstal origins and favorable price.
Upon unboxing the barrel, I was immediately impressed with the finish. The nitride coating appeared even and durable, giving the barrel a clean, professional look. The weight felt appropriate for a 16-inch M4 profile barrel, and the machining seemed precise.
Compared to a similar Ballistic Advantage barrel I own, the Diamondback Firearms barrel appeared to have a slightly less aggressive M4 profile. Compared to a Bear Creek Arsenal barrel I previously used, the Diamondback Firearms barrel’s finish and overall quality were noticeably superior. I chose the Diamondback Firearms barrel hoping for a balance of value and performance, leaning heavily on the FN Herstal association.
I was definitely excited, bordering on cautiously optimistic. Could this budget-friendly barrel actually deliver the legendary performance associated with FN Herstal? Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, an outdoor facility with distances out to 300 yards. I mounted the Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel onto my existing AR-15 lower receiver. I used a quality free-float handguard and a known-good optic to eliminate any potential variables.
Conditions were relatively mild: 65 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight crosswind. I started with basic function testing using 55-grain FMJ ammunition, ensuring proper cycling and ejection. The rifle ran flawlessly through the first 100 rounds with no malfunctions.
I then moved on to accuracy testing, shooting groups at 100 yards from a bench rest. My initial groups were promising, hovering around 1.5 to 2 inches with the inexpensive FMJ ammo. After the first session, I was pleased with the initial accuracy and reliable cycling; however, I reserved my final judgement until after more rigorous testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions totaling over 500 rounds, the Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel continued to perform reliably. I also put the barrel through a carbine course, involving rapid firing and movement drills. The barrel showed no signs of diminished accuracy or performance under the stress of rapid, repeated firing.
Durability-wise, the nitride finish has held up remarkably well. There are no visible scratches or signs of wear despite frequent handling and cleaning. Cleaning the barrel proved to be straightforward.
Compared to my previous experiences with budget barrels, the Diamondback Firearms barrel has significantly outperformed them. It consistently delivers tighter groups and exhibits better overall build quality. The barrel has proven itself to be a reliable and accurate performer, exceeding my expectations given its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel
Specifications
- The Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. This caliber is widely available and offers a good balance of accuracy and stopping power for various applications.
- It features a 16-inch barrel length. This is a popular choice for AR-15 builds, providing good maneuverability without sacrificing too much velocity.
- The barrel has a 1:8 twist rate. This twist rate is versatile and capable of stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights, from lightweight varmint rounds to heavier, more accurate projectiles.
- It utilizes a carbine-length gas system. This is a standard gas system length for 16-inch barrels, ensuring reliable cycling with a variety of ammunition types.
- The barrel is finished with a nitride coating. This coating provides excellent corrosion resistance and enhances the barrel’s lifespan.
- The barrel profile is M4 Contour. This profile reduces weight while maintaining strength and rigidity.
These specifications are crucial for a few reasons. The 5.56 NATO chambering ensures compatibility with readily available ammunition. The 1:8 twist rate offers flexibility in bullet selection. The nitride coating prolongs the barrel’s life and ensures consistent performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel performs admirably for its price point. Accuracy is consistent, with groupings typically falling between 1.5 and 2 MOA with quality ammunition.
The barrel’s reliability has been excellent, with no failures to feed or extract. One weakness is that it might not be as accurate as a higher-end match-grade barrel, but the performance is more than adequate for most recreational and tactical applications. It exceeds my expectations considering the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a durable nitride finish. The M4 profile helps to keep the weight down, making the rifle comfortable to handle.
The barrel installs easily using standard AR-15 tools, making it user-friendly even for novice builders. The barrel is properly dimensioned and easily fits most uppers.
Durability & Maintenance
The nitride coating provides excellent corrosion resistance. This ensures that the barrel will last for thousands of rounds with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication. The smooth bore makes cleaning easy, and the nitride finish resists carbon buildup.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel is compatible with all standard AR-15 accessories. This includes muzzle devices, gas blocks, and handguards.
It can be easily customized with different gas blocks, such as adjustable models for fine-tuning the gas system. It also readily accepts a variety of muzzle devices, allowing users to tailor the rifle’s performance to their specific needs. The barrel’s compatibility with aftermarket accessories makes it versatile and highly customizable.
Pros and Cons of Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel
Pros
- Affordable Price: Significantly cheaper than other “FN Herstal” barrels.
- Reliable Performance: Functions flawlessly with various ammunition types.
- Good Accuracy: Capable of producing consistent groups at 100 yards.
- Durable Nitride Finish: Provides excellent corrosion resistance and enhances barrel life.
- Versatile 1:8 Twist Rate: Stabilizes a wide range of bullet weights.
Cons
- Accuracy not quite on par with higher-end match grade barrels.
- M4 profile might be too thin for some users’ preferences.
Who Should Buy Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel?
The Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 builders. It is also suitable for recreational shooters looking for a reliable and accurate barrel. This barrel would be suitable for those looking for a decent performing barrel without breaking the bank.
Those seeking ultimate precision or those who demand match-grade accuracy should skip this product. It is best suited for those who understand that there may be some performance compromises compared to higher-end options.
A must-have modification would be a quality free-float handguard to improve accuracy. Also consider an adjustable gas block for fine-tuning the gas system and optimizing performance with different ammunition types.
Conclusion on Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel
The Diamondback Firearms OEM Replacement FN Herstal M16 Barrel offers an excellent value proposition. It delivers reliable performance and acceptable accuracy at an affordable price.
The price is definitely justified given its performance and durability. While it may not be a match-grade barrel, it provides a significant upgrade over basic OEM barrels.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly AR-15 barrel that doesn’t compromise on reliability. If you’re looking for a dependable barrel to get your AR-15 build up and running without emptying your wallet, this is definitely worth considering.