Let’s Talk About Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel
The Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel promises enhanced accuracy and reduced weight for your AR-10 build. This barrel combines 416-R steel construction with 5R rifling and a host of other features aimed at maximizing performance. After years of tinkering with AR platforms, both AR-15 and AR-10, I was on a quest to build a lightweight, accurate .308 AR.
I was aiming for a rifle that could pull double duty as a hunting rig and a long-range target shooter. The key was finding a balance between weight and precision. Upon unboxing, the Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel immediately impressed with its sleek fluting and clean lines. The Nitride finish gave it a robust, no-nonsense look and the weight, while noticeable, felt manageable thanks to the fluting.
I had considered barrels from Criterion and Proof Research, both known for their exceptional accuracy. However, the Faxon barrel’s fluting, nitride treatment, and price point made it a more attractive option for my specific build goals. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the barrel looked the part, but the proof would be in the pudding – or rather, the grouping.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel at my local range, a mix of indoor and outdoor lanes catering to various shooting disciplines. The initial outing was dedicated to breaking in the barrel and zeroing my optic. The weather was typical for early spring – cool and slightly damp.
The barrel performed admirably, cycling rounds smoothly and exhibiting no immediate issues. I found it easy to dial in my zero at 100 yards. There were no hiccups in feeding or ejection.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel has proven to be a reliable component of my AR-10. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, ranging from budget FMJ to premium match-grade ammunition. The Nitride finish shows no signs of wear, and the bore remains remarkably easy to clean, thanks to the 5R rifling.
I’ve taken the rifle on a couple of hunting trips and a few more range sessions. I can attest that it holds zero consistently and continues to deliver acceptable accuracy with a variety of loads. It outperforms my previous budget barrel in terms of both accuracy and ease of cleaning.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel
Specifications
Caliber: .308 Winchester – A versatile round suitable for hunting medium to large game and long-range target shooting. Its widespread availability is a definite plus.
Barrel Material: 416R Stainless Steel – Known for its corrosion resistance and ability to maintain accuracy over extended use. This is a crucial factor for barrel longevity.
Barrel Profile: Heavy Fluted – The heavy profile provides rigidity for improved accuracy, while the fluting reduces weight. This addresses my primary objective of building a lightweight, accurate rifle.
Gas System Length: Rifle Length – The rifle-length gas system offers a smoother recoil impulse compared to shorter systems. This is beneficial for maintaining accuracy during rapid firing.
Gas Block Journal Size: .750 in – A common size that offers compatibility with many aftermarket gas blocks. This ensures easy customization.
Threads per Inch: 5/8×24 – The standard thread pitch for .308 barrels, allowing for compatibility with a wide variety of muzzle devices. This facilitates easy upgrades.
Barrel Twist Rate: 1-10 – A versatile twist rate suitable for stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights commonly used in .308 Winchester. This provides flexibility in ammo selection.
Flutes: Yes – The flutes lighten the barrel, aid in heat dissipation, and add to the overall aesthetics. This helps to maintain accuracy during prolonged firing sessions.
Barrel Extension: DPMS LR-308 Compatible – Nickel Teflon Coated – Ensures compatibility with DPMS LR-308 pattern rifles, a common AR-10 platform. The Nickel Teflon coating enhances lubricity and improves the fit between the receiver and extension, which further enhances accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel performs its core function – delivering accurate shots – admirably. With match-grade ammunition, I’ve consistently achieved sub-MOA groupings at 100 yards, which meets my initial accuracy goals. The 5R rifling contributes to reduced bullet deformation and increased velocity.
The barrel’s strengths lie in its accuracy, manageable weight, and ease of maintenance. One area for potential improvement is the finish.
Design & Ergonomics
The barrel’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The fluting not only reduces weight but also adds a distinctive look. The barrel’s weight is noticeable, but manageable.
Installation was straightforward, requiring no special tools or modifications to my receiver.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 416R stainless steel and treated with Nitride, this barrel is built to last. After several months of use, there are no signs of corrosion or wear. Cleaning is simple, and the 5R rifling makes removing fouling a breeze.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel is compatible with all standard AR-10 components. I have paired it with a variety of muzzle devices and optics without any issues. The .750 gas block journal size allows for a wide range of adjustable gas blocks, facilitating fine-tuning of the gas system.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel
Pros
- Excellent Accuracy: Consistently achieves sub-MOA groupings with match-grade ammunition.
- Reduced Weight: Fluting helps to minimize weight without sacrificing rigidity.
- Durable Construction: 416R stainless steel and Nitride finish ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy Maintenance: 5R rifling simplifies cleaning and reduces fouling.
- DPMS LR-308 Compatibility: Broad compatibility with common AR-10 platforms.
Cons
- Finish can have some small imperfections.
- Ammo choice makes a significant difference in accuracy.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel?
The Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel is perfect for AR-10 enthusiasts looking to build a lightweight, accurate rifle for hunting, target shooting, or general purpose use. It’s also a great choice for those seeking an upgrade over a factory barrel. Those prioritizing absolute, match-grade accuracy above all else may want to consider higher-end (and more expensive) options.
A quality adjustable gas block is a must-have accessory to optimize performance.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel
The Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel offers a compelling blend of accuracy, weight reduction, and durability at a reasonable price point. The price is justified for the quality and performance gains it offers. I would recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their AR-10 or build a lightweight, accurate .308 rifle.
If you’re looking for a barrel that balances performance, durability, and weight, then the Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel is a solid choice that won’t break the bank. It’s a great upgrade for your AR-10.