Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel Review

The Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel Made a Bold First Impression

For over a decade, I’ve been immersed in the world of tactical gear, spending countless hours researching, testing, and advising on everything from load-bearing vests to the heart of any AR-15 build: the barrel. My latest acquisition, the Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel, promised a balanced profile, enhanced durability, and the kind of accuracy that separates a good rifle from a great one.

I was seeking a barrel that offered both lightweight maneuverability and dependable performance under sustained fire for a new AR build, meant for both training and potential duty use. Unboxing the Faxon barrel, I was immediately struck by the smooth, even nitride finish and the clean lines of the Gunner profile. It felt substantial without being overly heavy, hinting at the balanced performance it advertised.

I considered barrels from Ballistic Advantage and Criterion, but the Faxon’s Gunner profile and reputation for quality at a competitive price ultimately swayed my decision. The Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel seemed to offer the best of both worlds: a lightweight, maneuverable platform with the potential for serious accuracy and longevity. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel was at my local shooting range, a mix of indoor and outdoor bays, allowing for varied testing conditions. I ran several hundred rounds of mixed ammunition – everything from budget-friendly brass to match-grade hunting rounds. The barrel cycled flawlessly, showing no signs of hesitation or malfunction.

I experienced a day with intermittent rain and slightly humid conditions. The nitride finish proved its worth by resisting any surface rust or corrosion. The rifle felt well-balanced, making transitions between targets fluid and natural, validating Faxon’s claim of improved maneuverability.

Installation was straightforward, and the gas block seated perfectly onto the .625″ journal without requiring excessive force. There were no immediate surprises other than a growing sense of satisfaction with the barrel’s performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel continues to impress. Round count is approaching 2,000, and the barrel shows minimal signs of wear. Cleaning is straightforward.

A quick wipe-down after each range session keeps it in top condition. The nitride finish remains resistant to scratches and wear, proving its long-term durability. Compared to previous barrels I’ve used, the Faxon excels in both accuracy and ease of maintenance, making it a standout performer in its price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel

Specifications

• Barrel Material: 4150 CMV – This Mil-Spec steel provides excellent strength and heat resistance, crucial for sustained firing.
• Barrel Type: Button Rifled – Button rifling offers a good balance of accuracy and cost-effectiveness, making it a great choice for a duty-grade barrel.
• Barrel Caliber: 5.56 – Chambered in the ubiquitous 5.56 NATO, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of ammunition.
• Barrel Twist: 1:8 – This twist rate stabilizes a wide range of bullet weights, from lighter 55-grain rounds to heavier 77-grain match loads.
• Barrel Length: 14.5” – A versatile length, providing a good balance of maneuverability and ballistic performance.
• Barrel Profile: Gunner – The Gunner profile strikes a balance between weight savings and rigidity, reducing felt recoil and improving handling.
• Barrel Gas System: Mid – The mid-length gas system provides smoother cycling and reduced wear compared to a carbine-length system, especially important for 14.5″ barrels.
• Inside Finish: Nitride – Nitride hardening increases surface hardness, improves corrosion resistance, and reduces friction, extending the barrel’s lifespan.
• Outside Finish: Nitride – The outer nitride finish further protects the barrel from the elements and wear.
• Muzzle Thread: 1/2×28 – The standard AR-15 muzzle thread allows for compatibility with a vast array of muzzle devices.
• Gas Block Diameter: .625″ – This size gas block is relatively lightweight and common, providing options for gas block selection.
• Gas Block Journal Length: 1.9″ – Provides adequate space for secure gas block installation.
• Barrel Extension: M4 – The M4 feed ramps ensure reliable feeding of ammunition.
• Weight: 1.22 lbs – Lightweight and allows for extended carry without excessive fatigue.
• Magnetic Particle Inspected! – This inspection process helps identify any potential flaws in the steel.
• 11-degree Target Crown – The target crown helps ensure consistent bullet release for improved accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel performs exceptionally well in delivering accurate and consistent shots. It is utterly reliable, cycling smoothly with various ammunition types. Its enhanced accuracy and smooth operation far exceeded my expectations, making it a superb upgrade.

While the Faxon excels in most areas, the one potential drawback might be the slightly increased recoil compared to heavier barrels due to its lightweight profile. However, this is a trade-off for improved maneuverability and reduced overall rifle weight.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel is excellent, with a flawless nitride finish and precise machining. It weighs 1.22 lbs, and this weight is manageable. Installation and maintenance are straightforward, making it user-friendly for both novice and experienced builders.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of materials and the nitride hardening process, the Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel is built to last. Routine cleaning and lubrication are all that’s required to keep it in top condition for years to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel is compatible with a wide array of AR-15 accessories, including muzzle devices, gas blocks, and handguards. It interfaces well with popular brands like Magpul, SureFire, and BCM, enhancing customization options.

Pros and Cons of Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel?

The Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel is perfect for shooters seeking a balance of accuracy, maneuverability, and durability in their AR-15 build. It is Ideal for tactical applications, target shooting, and hunting, making it a versatile option. It is a great fit for Law enforcement, competitive shooters, and responsible citizens.

Those prioritizing absolute maximum accuracy at the expense of weight savings might prefer a heavier, match-grade barrel. A quality bolt carrier group (BCG) and a reliable muzzle device are must-have accessories to fully realize the barrel’s potential.

Conclusion on Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel

The Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel delivers exceptional value and performance, making it a standout choice for any AR-15 build. The price is absolutely justified by its accuracy, durability, and lightweight design, offering a compelling package for a wide range of shooters.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Faxon Duty 5.56×45 NATO 14.5″ Mid-Length Nitride Barrel to anyone looking to upgrade their AR-15’s performance. Don’t settle for mediocrity; invest in a barrel that delivers on its promises and elevates your shooting experience.

Check Best Price HERE