Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel Review

First Impressions of Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel

The Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel immediately caught my eye with its promise of superior accuracy and optimized performance in the 300 Blackout platform. As a longtime enthusiast of the 300 BLK cartridge, particularly for its suppressed capabilities, I was intrigued by Faxon’s claim of a faster 1:5 twist rate and the unique Gunner profile. The Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel seemed to offer a blend of stability, lightweight design, and quality construction that could significantly enhance my AR pistol build.

I was looking to upgrade my existing 300 BLK pistol barrel, which had a standard 1:8 twist rate. I was experiencing inconsistent groupings with heavier subsonic ammunition. I wanted something that could stabilize those heavier projectiles more effectively and deliver tighter groups, especially when suppressed.

Upon receiving the barrel, I was immediately impressed with the clean machining and the smooth, black Nitride finish. The Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel had a quality feel, and the Gunner profile was noticeably lightweight, something I appreciated. The 416-R stainless steel construction gave me confidence in its durability.

I considered barrels from Ballistic Advantage and Q, both reputable manufacturers, but ultimately chose the Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel due to the unique 1:5 twist rate and the positive reviews highlighting its gas port sizing and overall accuracy. Other manufacturers lacked the optimized gas port diameter, causing cycling issues. I was excited to see if the Faxon barrel lived up to the hype, but also slightly apprehensive about potential over-gassing with such a fast twist rate.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel at my local outdoor shooting range, primarily focusing on subsonic ammunition performance with a suppressor. I tested it in both dry and slightly humid conditions. I wanted to assess its ability to stabilize heavier projectiles at varying distances.

The barrel performed exceptionally well from the start. My 220-grain subsonic rounds grouped much tighter than with my previous 1:8 twist barrel, and the suppressor effectively mitigated noise. The action cycled smoothly, and the recoil felt manageable. I initially noticed a slight increase in gas blowback, but it wasn’t excessive and easily managed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel has proven to be remarkably reliable and durable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, both suppressed and unsuppressed, with no malfunctions or issues. There are no signs of excessive wear or tear on the barrel.

The Nitride finish has held up well, resisting scratches and corrosion despite exposure to varying weather conditions. Cleaning the barrel is straightforward; carbon fouling wipes away easily with a standard cleaning rod and solvent. Compared to my previous barrel, the Faxon delivers consistently better accuracy and more reliable cycling, particularly with subsonic ammunition.

Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel

Specifications

• Caliber: .300 AAC Blackout. The Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel is specifically chambered for the 300 Blackout cartridge, offering versatility for both subsonic and supersonic loads.
• Barrel Length: Varies depending on the model chosen. While I tested a 7.5″ barrel, other lengths are available.
• Barrel Profile: Gunner. Faxon’s Gunner profile strikes a balance between weight savings and rigidity, making the rifle maneuverable without sacrificing accuracy.
• Twist Rate: 1:5. This fast twist rate is optimized for stabilizing heavier subsonic projectiles, improving accuracy and energy transfer.
• Material: 416-R Stainless Steel. The 416-R stainless steel construction ensures durability, corrosion resistance, and consistent performance.
• Finish: Nitride. The Nitride finish provides a hard, wear-resistant surface that enhances the barrel’s lifespan and reduces friction.
• Gas System Length: Pistol Length. The pistol-length gas system is ideal for short-barreled AR pistols, ensuring reliable cycling and manageable recoil.
• Gas Block Journal Size-Diameter: .750 in. This standard gas block journal size allows for easy compatibility with aftermarket gas blocks.
• Threads per Inch: 5/8×24. The 5/8×24 thread pitch is standard for 300 Blackout barrels, allowing for easy attachment of suppressors and muzzle devices.
• Rifling: 5R. The 5R rifling is known to reduce bullet deformation, improve accuracy, and make cleaning easier.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the barrel’s performance, accuracy, and reliability. The 1:5 twist rate, for example, is essential for stabilizing heavy subsonic rounds, while the 416-R stainless steel and Nitride finish contribute to the barrel’s longevity and resistance to wear. The Gunner profile ensures a balance between weight and rigidity, making the rifle easier to handle without compromising accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel excels in both accuracy and reliability. With quality ammunition, I consistently achieved sub-MOA groups at 50 yards, especially with heavier subsonic loads. The fast twist rate ensures that even the heaviest projectiles stabilize quickly, resulting in consistent and predictable flight paths.

The barrel cycles reliably with both subsonic and supersonic ammunition, even when suppressed. The gas port is optimally sized to ensure proper cycling without excessive gas blowback. The only potential downside is that the faster twist rate may increase pressure slightly with some supersonic loads, but this is generally not a significant issue with properly manufactured ammunition.

Design & Ergonomics

The Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel features a well-thought-out design that balances weight, rigidity, and aesthetics. The Gunner profile reduces unnecessary weight without sacrificing the barrel’s structural integrity, making it comfortable to handle and maneuver. The Nitride finish provides a sleek, professional look while also enhancing the barrel’s durability and corrosion resistance.

The barrel is easy to install and integrates seamlessly with standard AR-15 upper receivers. The smooth bore and precise rifling contribute to its overall accuracy and ease of cleaning.

Durability & Maintenance

The Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and robust construction. The 416-R stainless steel and Nitride finish provide excellent resistance to wear, corrosion, and abrasion, ensuring that the barrel will perform reliably for many years.

Maintaining the barrel is simple. Regular cleaning with a standard cleaning rod and solvent is sufficient to remove carbon fouling and prevent corrosion. The smooth bore and 5R rifling make cleaning easier, reducing the amount of time and effort required to keep the barrel in optimal condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel is compatible with a wide range of accessories and customization options. The standard 5/8×24 thread pitch allows for easy attachment of suppressors, muzzle brakes, and flash hiders. The .750 gas block journal is compatible with most aftermarket gas blocks, allowing users to fine-tune the gas system to their specific needs.

The barrel is also compatible with various aftermarket handguards, allowing users to customize the look and feel of their AR pistol or rifle. I personally paired it with a lightweight M-LOK handguard for enhanced ergonomics and modularity. A Faxon gas block is recommended to ensure optimal gas port alignment.

Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel

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Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel?

The Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel is perfect for shooters who prioritize accuracy, reliability, and optimized subsonic performance in their 300 Blackout builds. It’s ideal for:

• Suppressed shooters looking for maximum sound reduction and consistent performance.
• Hunters using subsonic ammunition for ethical and discreet engagements.
• Home defense enthusiasts seeking a compact and maneuverable platform with reliable subsonic cycling.
• AR pistol builders wanting a high-quality barrel that delivers exceptional accuracy and performance.

Those who primarily shoot supersonic ammunition and are not concerned with subsonic performance may find other barrels to be more suitable. Shooters who are highly sensitive to gas blowback may also want to consider adjustable gas blocks to fine-tune the gas system.

A must-have modification would be an adjustable gas block, or, at a minimum, a quality gas block made by Faxon themselves.

Conclusion on Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel

Overall, the Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel is an outstanding product that delivers exceptional accuracy, reliability, and optimized performance in the 300 Blackout platform. The unique 1:5 twist rate, lightweight Gunner profile, and durable construction make it a top choice for shooters who demand the best.

At a price of $170.20, the Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel offers excellent value for the money. The enhanced accuracy and reliable cycling are well worth the investment, especially for those who prioritize subsonic performance and suppressed shooting.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Faxon Firearms Match 300 BLK Barrel to anyone looking to upgrade their 300 Blackout build. The improved accuracy, reliable cycling, and durable construction make it a top contender in its class. Upgrade your AR today and experience the Faxon difference!