The Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL Made a Bold First Impression
The 8.6 Blackout is a relatively new cartridge, and finding quality components to build around it can be a challenge. When Faxon Firearms released their Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL, I knew I had to get my hands on one. This barrel promised to deliver accuracy and reliability in a unique platform.
My interest in the 8.6 Blackout stemmed from a desire for a compact, hard-hitting AR platform for hog hunting in dense brush. I needed a barrel that could stabilize the heavy projectiles this caliber is known for, and the Faxon barrel’s 1-3 twist rate seemed promising. Unboxing it, I was immediately impressed by the finish and heft. The black coating looked durable, and the overall construction felt robust.
I was also considering a similar barrel from Proof Research, but the price difference was significant. Faxon offered a more budget-friendly option without compromising on key features. My initial excitement was high, hoping this barrel would live up to its promise of superior performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL was at my local shooting range. I wanted to see how it grouped with various 8.6 Blackout loads. The weather was typical for Texas: hot and dusty.
The barrel performed flawlessly during that initial range session. It was easy to get used to; the accuracy was immediately noticeable, especially compared to some other barrels I have used. I didn’t experience any malfunctions or issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a couple of hog hunts, the Faxon barrel continues to impress. The black finish has held up well, with minimal signs of wear even after being dragged through thick brush. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down after each use is all it takes.
I’ve run hundreds of rounds through this barrel, and it has consistently delivered reliable performance. I’ve definitely been outperforming my hunting buddies using other less quality barrels. This barrel has become a staple in my go-to hog hunting setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL
Specifications
- Barrel Weight: 2.2 lbs. This weight provides a good balance, making the rifle manageable without being overly heavy.
- Contour: Big Gunner. The Big Gunner contour offers a good compromise between weight savings and heat dissipation.
- Finish: Black. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and a tactical look.
- Gas System Length: Carbine. The carbine-length gas system ensures reliable cycling with a wide range of ammunition.
- Length: 16″. This length strikes a balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance.
- Make: AR .308. Although chambered in 8.6 Blackout, this barrel is designed for AR-10 platforms.
- Muzzle Threads: M18x1.5. This thread pitch allows for the use of various muzzle devices and suppressors.
- Twist: 1-3. The extremely fast 1-3 twist rate is crucial for stabilizing the heavy, long projectiles used in 8.6 Blackout.
- Cartridge: 8.6 Blackout. This cartridge is known for its impressive knockdown power in a short-barreled platform.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL performs exceptionally well. Its accuracy is commendable, easily achieving sub-MOA groups with quality ammunition. The barrel’s reliability is also noteworthy, consistently cycling rounds without issue.
The 1-3 twist rate is the key to this barrel’s success, ensuring proper stabilization of the heavy 8.6 Blackout projectiles. One minor area for improvement would be offering a version with a fluted profile to further reduce weight. However, its performance vastly exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Big Gunner contour strikes a good balance between weight and rigidity. The black finish provides a sleek and durable aesthetic. Installation was straightforward, requiring no specialized tools or modifications to my AR-10 upper receiver.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from chrome moly steel, this barrel is built to last. Its black finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to maintain its performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL readily accepts standard AR-10 muzzle devices with an M18x1.5 thread pitch. I paired mine with a suppressor for reduced recoil and noise. It’s compatible with most AR-10 handguards and gas blocks, allowing for a wide range of customization options.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups with quality ammunition.
- Reliable Performance: Cycles rounds smoothly without malfunctions.
- Optimal Twist Rate: The 1-3 twist rate effectively stabilizes heavy 8.6 Blackout projectiles.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality chrome moly steel with a corrosion-resistant black finish.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value compared to other premium 8.6 Blackout barrels.
Cons
- Slightly Heavier: The Big Gunner contour can be a bit heavy for ultralight builds.
- Limited Finish Options: Only available in a black finish.
Who Should Buy Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL?
This barrel is perfect for hog hunters and those seeking a compact, powerful AR-10 platform. It’s also ideal for shooters looking to experiment with the 8.6 Blackout cartridge. Those prioritizing an ultralight build might find the Big Gunner contour a bit heavy.
A quality adjustable gas block is a must-have accessory to fine-tune the rifle’s cycling with different loads. A suppressor is also highly recommended to tame the 8.6 Blackout’s recoil and noise.
Conclusion on Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL
The Faxon Big Gunner Contour Barrel 8.6 Blackout 16 1-3 Twist Chrome Moly BBL is an outstanding product that delivers exceptional performance at a reasonable price. The barrel’s accuracy, reliability, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for anyone building an 8.6 Blackout AR-10. The price is definitely justified by the quality and performance it offers.
I wholeheartedly recommend this barrel to anyone looking to build a top-notch 8.6 Blackout rifle. Take the plunge and experience the power and precision of the Faxon Big Gunner!