Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO Review

The Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO Made a Bold First Impression

The Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO isn’t just another AR-15 barrel; it’s a promise of enhanced accuracy and reliability at a price point that makes you question the competition. Faxon Firearms has built a reputation for quality, and this barrel seemed like the perfect upgrade for my aging AR. It boasts features like a 1:8 twist rate, button rifling, and a QPQ Black Nitride finish.

I was looking to improve the accuracy of my go-to AR-15 without breaking the bank. My current barrel, a mil-spec model, was showing its age after years of use in various shooting competitions and tactical training exercises. I wanted a barrel that could deliver consistent sub-MOA performance with the right ammo, and the Faxon seemed to fit the bill.

Unboxing the Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO was an experience in itself. The barrel was meticulously packaged, showcasing Faxon’s attention to detail and build quality. The QPQ Black Nitride finish looked flawless, and the target crown was precisely cut.

I considered barrels from Ballistic Advantage and Criterion, both known for their accuracy. Ultimately, I chose the Faxon for its combination of features, price, and the reputation of Faxon Firearms. The 1:8 twist rate seemed optimal for the variety of bullet weights I like to use.

My first impression was one of excitement. The barrel felt solid and well-made. I was eager to install it and see how it performed on the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO at my local outdoor shooting range. I primarily used Federal Gold Medal Match 69 grain and some M193 55 grain ammo. The range offered distances from 25 to 300 yards, providing a good opportunity to assess its accuracy at different ranges.

The barrel performed exceptionally well in dry conditions. I experienced no malfunctions and found the accuracy to be significantly improved compared to my old barrel. Getting used to the new barrel was simple, it dropped right into my existing AR-15 upper receiver.

After the first range session, I noticed that the groupings at 100 yards tightened up considerably. The first-time use exceeded my expectations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it. There are no signs of significant wear and tear beyond the usual carbon buildup.

The barrel has held up remarkably well to the rigors of regular shooting. Cleaning is relatively straightforward thanks to the QPQ Black Nitride finish, which resists carbon buildup. The barrel wipes down easily with standard solvents and bore brushes.

Compared to my previous experiences with mil-spec barrels, the Faxon barrel is in a different class. Its accuracy and consistency are far superior. It has significantly boosted my confidence in my AR-15’s performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO

Specifications

• Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO. This is the standard chambering for AR-15 rifles, providing versatility and widespread ammunition availability.

• Firearm Fit: AR15 / M4. It is designed to fit any standard AR-15 or M4 platform.

• Length: 20″. The 20″ length provides a longer sight radius for improved accuracy and allows for optimal velocity of the 5.56 NATO round.

• Material: 4150 Steel. 4150 steel is known for its high strength and durability, making it an excellent choice for a barrel that will see hard use.

• Finish: QPQ Black Nitride. The QPQ Black Nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and hardness.

• Barrel Type: Button Rifled. Button rifling is a precise and cost-effective method of creating rifling, known for its consistent results.

• Twist: 1:8″. The 1:8″ twist rate is a versatile option that stabilizes a wide range of bullet weights.

• Diameter: .625″. The .625″ diameter is a lightweight profile, reducing the overall weight of the rifle while maintaining adequate stiffness.

• Thread Pattern: 1 / 2″-28. The 1/2″-28 thread pattern is the standard for 5.56 NATO barrels, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of muzzle devices.

• Barrel Description: Target Crown Steel. The target crown helps to ensure consistent bullet release, improving accuracy.

• Weight: 1.67 lbs. The weight is reasonable for a 20″ barrel.

These specifications contribute to the barrel’s accuracy, reliability, and longevity. The combination of 4150 steel, QPQ Black Nitride finish, and button rifling makes it a solid choice for any AR-15 build.

Performance & Functionality

The Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO excels at its primary job: delivering accurate and consistent performance. I’ve consistently achieved sub-MOA groups at 100 yards with match-grade ammunition.

One of the strengths of this barrel is its versatility. It performs well with both lightweight and heavier bullets thanks to the 1:8 twist rate. However, the lightweight profile might not be ideal for sustained rapid fire, as it will heat up more quickly than a heavier barrel profile.

The Faxon barrel meets and exceeds my expectations. It transforms my AR-15 into a more accurate and reliable platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO is excellent. The materials are high-quality. The QPQ Black Nitride finish is smooth and even.

The barrel is easy to install with standard AR-15 tools. There is no learning curve associated with its use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the 4150 steel construction and QPQ Black Nitride finish, the Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with standard solvents and bore brushes is all that is required to keep it in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO is compatible with any standard AR-15 upper receiver and muzzle devices. Common accessories include muzzle brakes, flash hiders, and suppressors.

The 1/2″-28 thread pattern ensures compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. The barrel is a standalone upgrade. It doesn’t require any specific Faxon accessories to function properly.

Pros and Cons of Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO

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Who Should Buy Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO?

The Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO is perfect for shooters looking to improve the accuracy and reliability of their AR-15 without spending a fortune. It is an excellent choice for competitive shooters, recreational shooters, and anyone who values precision and durability.

Those who primarily engage in sustained rapid fire or who prefer a heavier barrel profile for aesthetic or stability reasons might want to consider a different option. Shooters looking for a match-grade barrel at a budget-friendly price will find great value in the Faxon.

A quality optic and a reliable trigger are must-have accessories to fully realize the potential of this barrel.

Conclusion on Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO

The Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO is an outstanding upgrade for any AR-15. It delivers exceptional accuracy, durability, and versatility at an affordable price.

At $189.00, the price is more than justified given the performance and quality of the barrel. It’s a significant improvement over mil-spec barrels and offers comparable performance to more expensive options.

I would highly recommend the Faxon AR-15 Barrel 5.56 NATO to anyone looking to enhance their AR-15’s accuracy and reliability. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the Faxon difference!

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