Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel Review

The Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel Made a Bold First Impression

The Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel isn’t just another drop-in upgrade; it’s a statement. Faxon Firearms aims to elevate the venerable Ruger 10/22 platform, and this barrel promises to do just that with enhanced accuracy and a distinctive look. I was looking for a way to improve my 10/22’s long-range precision without sacrificing its lightweight, nimble feel, and the straight fluted bull barrel seemed like the perfect solution.

My trusty 10/22 has been a constant companion on countless squirrel hunts and plinking sessions. However, I’ve always felt it could be more accurate, especially at longer ranges. The factory barrel, while reliable, lacked the rigidity and precision I desired. That’s why I decided to invest in the Faxon barrel.

Unboxing the Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel was a satisfying experience. The nitride finish looked flawless, promising corrosion resistance and a smooth surface. The fluting was clean and precise, and the threaded muzzle hinted at the possibilities for customization.

I considered a few other options, including barrels from Volquartsen and Kidd Innovative Design. Ultimately, I chose the Faxon barrel because it offered a balance of performance, aesthetics, and price. The straight fluting appealed to my sense of style, and the nitride finish seemed more durable than the blued finishes on some competing products. I was excited to see if it could live up to the hype.

My first impression was definitely one of excitement. The barrel felt substantial and well-made, giving me confidence that it would deliver a noticeable improvement in accuracy. The sleek design and attention to detail made me eager to install it and head to the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel at my local shooting range, a mix of covered benches and open-air lanes. The weather was slightly overcast, with a light breeze – perfect conditions for a day of precision shooting. I brought a variety of .22 LR ammunition to see how the barrel performed with different loads.

The barrel immediately showed improved accuracy over the factory barrel. Groupings at 50 yards tightened considerably, and I was able to consistently hit smaller targets at 100 yards. I was particularly impressed with its performance with CCI Standard Velocity ammunition.

Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of my time. The barrel fit snugly into the receiver, and the headspace was perfect. No gunsmithing required!

The only initial surprise was the slightly increased weight compared to the factory barrel, but it wasn’t a significant issue. The added weight actually contributed to better stability and reduced recoil.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or tear, and the nitride finish continues to resist corrosion and scratches. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, and it still performs as accurately as it did on day one.

Maintaining the barrel is incredibly easy. A quick cleaning after each range session is all it takes to keep it in top condition. The smooth nitride finish makes it easy to remove fouling and residue.

Compared to my previous experiences with the factory barrel, the Faxon barrel is a significant upgrade. It has transformed my 10/22 into a much more accurate and enjoyable rifle to shoot. I no longer feel limited by the barrel’s performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel

Specifications

• Caliber: .22 LR – The classic rimfire round, perfect for plinking and small game hunting. It’s affordable and readily available.
• Barrel Length: 16 inches – A good balance of maneuverability and accuracy. This length maximizes the .22 LR’s potential without being unwieldy.
• Material: 416-R Stainless Steel – Provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. The 416-R designation signifies a high-quality stainless steel alloy commonly used in match-grade barrels.
• Rifling: 6 Groove Rifling with a 1:16 Twist – This twist rate is optimized for stabilizing .22 LR bullets. The 6-groove rifling contributes to consistent accuracy.
• Profile: Straight Fluted Bull Barrel – The bull barrel design increases rigidity and reduces barrel whip. The straight fluting reduces weight while increasing surface area for cooling.
• Finish: Salt Bath Nitride – Provides exceptional corrosion resistance and a smooth, hard surface. The nitride finish enhances lubricity and reduces friction.
• Muzzle: Threaded – Allows for the attachment of muzzle devices such as suppressors or compensators. This feature adds versatility to the 10/22 platform.
• Crown: Recessed Target Crown – Protects the rifling at the muzzle and promotes consistent bullet release. The recessed design helps prevent damage to the crown.
• Weight: 1.4 lbs – Lighter than a standard factory barrel, but heavier than Faxon’s pencil barrel. This provides a nice balance.
• Magnetic Particle Inspected (MPI): Ensures the barrel is free from defects. MPI is a non-destructive testing method that detects surface and near-surface flaws.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and overall user experience. The high-quality materials, precise rifling, and thoughtful design contribute to the barrel’s exceptional accuracy, durability, and versatility. The threaded muzzle allows for customization, while the nitride finish ensures long-lasting corrosion resistance.

Performance & Functionality

The Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel performs exceptionally well. Accuracy is significantly improved compared to the factory barrel, and reliability is unwavering. It handles a wide range of .22 LR ammunition with ease.

The straight fluting helps to dissipate heat, preventing the barrel from overheating during extended shooting sessions. The threaded muzzle provides the option to add a suppressor, further enhancing the shooting experience.

The barrel’s strengths lie in its accuracy, durability, and versatility. One area for potential improvement would be offering more fluting patterns to cater to different aesthetic preferences.

This barrel exceeded my expectations. It delivered a noticeable improvement in accuracy and transformed my 10/22 into a much more capable rifle.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise machining. The barrel feels solid and well-made.

The weight is manageable, and the bull barrel profile provides good balance. Installation is straightforward, requiring no special tools or gunsmithing skills.

The Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel is user-friendly, even for novice gun owners. There is no learning curve, and the barrel is easy to install and maintain.

Durability & Maintenance

The 416-R stainless steel construction and nitride finish ensure long-lasting durability. The barrel is resistant to corrosion, scratches, and wear.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick cleaning after each range session is all it takes to keep the barrel in top condition.

The Faxon barrel is built to last. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. The threaded muzzle allows for the attachment of suppressors, compensators, and other muzzle devices. The standard 10/22 receiver accepts a plethora of aftermarket stocks and triggers, and the Faxon barrel interfaces seamlessly with all of them.

The Faxon barrel is compatible with most 10/22 receivers and trigger groups. The threaded muzzle allows for the use of standard .22 LR suppressors.

Pros and Cons of Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel

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Who Should Buy Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel?

The Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel is perfect for target shooters, small game hunters, and anyone looking to improve the accuracy and performance of their Ruger 10/22. It’s also a great choice for those who want to customize their rifle with a suppressor or other muzzle device.

This product is not ideal for those who prioritize ultra-lightweight builds above all else, or those on an extremely tight budget. While the Faxon barrel is a great value, there are cheaper options available that may suffice for basic plinking.

A must-have accessory for this barrel is a quality .22 LR suppressor. A good trigger group, such as a Timney or a Kidd, can further enhance accuracy and shooting enjoyment.

Conclusion on Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel

The Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel is a fantastic upgrade that delivers on its promises. It improves accuracy, enhances durability, and adds a touch of style to the Ruger 10/22 platform.

The price is justified by the quality of materials, the precision of manufacturing, and the noticeable improvement in performance. The value proposition is excellent.

I would absolutely recommend the Faxon 10/22 16″ Straight Fluted Bull Threaded Nitride Barrel to anyone looking to take their 10/22 to the next level. It’s a worthwhile investment that will enhance your shooting experience for years to come. Upgrade your Ruger 10/22 today and experience the difference a quality barrel can make!

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