What Makes Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel Stand Out?
The Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel promises to elevate your AR-10 build with its commitment to precision and performance. Faxon Firearms has carved a reputation for delivering quality barrels, and the Match series takes it a step further, focusing on enhanced accuracy and longevity. This barrel aims to bridge the gap between production-grade components and custom builds, offering match-grade performance without breaking the bank.
I was looking to upgrade my AR-10 for better long-range accuracy during hunting season. My previous barrel, while functional, lacked the consistency I desired for ethical and effective shots at extended distances.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the weight – a solid 2.4 lbs, indicative of the 416-R stainless steel construction. The finish was clean and even, with the Nitride treatment giving it a dark, almost black sheen. It felt substantial and well-made, suggesting attention to detail during manufacturing.
Compared to a standard chrome-moly barrel and a more expensive, hand-lapped barrel from another manufacturer, the Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel struck a balance. It wasn’t as lightweight as the chrome-moly, but it also wasn’t as expensive as the hand-lapped option, promising similar performance at a more accessible price point. The Nickel Teflon coated extension was also a unique feature not found on the other barrels.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The specifications looked promising, and the build quality seemed solid. I was eager to see if it could deliver on its claims of enhanced accuracy and improved performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel at my local shooting range, focusing on accuracy at 100 and 300 yards. The weather was typical for early fall: cool with a slight breeze.
The barrel performed admirably under these conditions, consistently grouping within 1 MOA with match-grade ammunition. The rifle felt more stable and the recoil felt smoother than with my previous barrel.
Installation was straightforward, and the barrel headspaced correctly without any issues. I did notice a slight improvement in gas efficiency, likely due to the tight tolerances.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a few hunting trips spanning several months, the Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel continues to hold up well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear beyond typical carbon fouling.
Cleaning is relatively easy due to the Nitride treatment and 5R rifling, which seem to resist carbon buildup. I’ve been using standard bore solvents and brushes with no issues.
Compared to my previous experiences with other barrels, the Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel has consistently outperformed them in terms of accuracy and ease of maintenance. The enhanced performance and durability have justified the upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel
Specifications
- Caliber: .308 Winchester. This is a versatile and widely available cartridge suitable for hunting, target shooting, and tactical applications.
- Barrel Length: 20 inches. This length provides a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance, making it suitable for various applications.
- Gas System Length: Rifle Length. Rifle length gas systems provide a smoother recoil impulse and improved reliability compared to shorter systems.
- Gas Block Journal Size: .750 inches. This is a standard size, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of gas blocks.
- Threads per Inch: 5/8×24. This is the standard thread pitch for .308 barrels, allowing for easy attachment of muzzle devices and suppressors.
- Barrel Twist Rate: 1-10. This twist rate is ideal for stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights commonly used in .308 Winchester.
- Barrel Material: 416R Stainless Steel. This material offers excellent corrosion resistance and heat dissipation, contributing to barrel life and accuracy.
- Weight: 2.4 lb. This weight is a good balance between stability and portability.
- Gas Block Journal Size-Length: 1.1 in. Standard journal length for reliable gas block installation.
- Rifling: 5R. The 5R rifling reduces bullet deformation, increasing velocity and making cleaning easier.
- Extension Coating: Nickel Teflon. The Nickel Teflon coating provides excellent dry lubricity, corrosion resistance, and tighter fit between the extension and receiver, enhancing accuracy.
- Treatment: Nitride Treated. The Nitride treatment hardens the bore, improving barrel life and corrosion resistance.
These specifications are crucial for optimal performance. The 416R stainless steel and Nitride treatment ensure longevity and consistent accuracy, while the 5R rifling minimizes bullet deformation and simplifies cleaning.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel excels in accuracy and reliability. It consistently delivers sub-MOA groups with quality ammunition.
Its strengths lie in its consistent accuracy, reliable cycling, and ease of maintenance. The only potential area for improvement might be a slightly lighter profile option for those prioritizing weight reduction.
The barrel exceeded my expectations, delivering match-grade performance in a readily available and affordable package. It’s a significant upgrade over standard barrels.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the 416R stainless steel providing a solid and durable foundation. The weight is manageable, and the barrel is easy to install with standard AR-10 tools.
The Nickel Teflon coated extension and Nitride treatment contribute to a smooth and consistent operation. There is virtually no learning curve for anyone familiar with AR-10 platforms.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, this barrel should last for thousands of rounds. The Nitride treatment significantly enhances its resistance to wear and corrosion.
Cleaning is straightforward, and the 5R rifling makes it easier to remove carbon fouling. Regular cleaning and lubrication are sufficient to maintain optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The barrel is compatible with any standard AR-10 gas block, muzzle device, and handguard. I used a Superlative Arms adjustable gas block and a Surefire muzzle brake without any issues.
Aftermarket triggers and free-float handguards can further enhance performance. The standard 5/8×24 threads allow for a wide range of suppressor options.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups with match-grade ammunition.
- Enhanced Durability: The 416R stainless steel and Nitride treatment ensure long-lasting performance.
- Smooth Cycling: The rifle-length gas system and tight tolerances provide reliable cycling with various ammunition types.
- Easy Maintenance: The 5R rifling and Nitride finish make cleaning quick and simple.
- Great Value: Offers match-grade performance at a competitive price point.
Cons
- Weight: At 2.4 lbs, it might be slightly heavier than some competitors.
- Limited Customization: Only available in one length and profile.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel?
The Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel is perfect for hunters seeking enhanced accuracy for ethical long-range shots, competitive shooters looking for a reliable and consistent barrel, and tactical shooters needing a durable and accurate platform. It’s also a great upgrade for anyone wanting to improve their AR-10’s overall performance.
Those prioritizing extreme weight reduction above all else might consider a lighter profile barrel. Individuals who need specific custom lengths or contours might need to look elsewhere.
A high-quality adjustable gas block is a must-have for optimizing performance with different ammunition types. A free-float handguard and match-grade trigger are also recommended for maximizing accuracy potential.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel
The Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel is a significant upgrade for any AR-10 build, delivering exceptional accuracy, enhanced durability, and smooth cycling. The price is justified by the performance gains and the quality of materials used.
I would definitely recommend this barrel to anyone looking to improve their AR-10’s accuracy and reliability. It’s a well-made, high-performing component that represents excellent value for the money.
Upgrade your AR-10 today with the Faxon Firearms Match .308 WIN Rifle Barrel and experience the difference firsthand!