The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel Made a Bold First Impression
The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel promised a compelling blend of accuracy, maneuverability, and modern cartridge compatibility. As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I was eager to see if this barrel could live up to the hype surrounding the .22 ARC cartridge and Faxon Firearms’s reputation for quality. The Gunner profile, a hybrid of Government and Pencil profiles, piqued my interest as a potential sweet spot for balanced AR-15 builds.
I had been searching for a barrel that could deliver excellent long-range accuracy without adding excessive weight to my AR-15 platform. My previous experiences with heavy-profile barrels left me fatigued during extended training sessions, and I hoped the Gunner profile would offer a more practical solution. This barrel seemed like the perfect upgrade for my lightweight hunting and target shooting build.
The Faxon barrel arrived well-packaged and upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the clean nitride finish. It appeared evenly applied and gave the barrel a professional, high-quality look. The weight felt noticeably lighter than the heavy barrel I was replacing, confirming my initial hopes for improved balance.
Compared to other 16-inch barrels I’ve used, such as those from Ballistic Advantage and Criterion, the Faxon stood out due to its unique Gunner profile. I was drawn to its potential for a lighter, more maneuverable rifle without sacrificing too much stiffness. I picked the Faxon because it offered the unique combination of the Gunner profile in a .22 ARC chambering.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel appeared to be a well-made, thoughtfully designed barrel with great potential. I was excited to get it installed and see how it performed on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel took place at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for evaluating accuracy and handling. I zeroed the rifle at 100 yards and then proceeded to test its performance at distances out to 600 yards.
The barrel performed admirably in these conditions, delivering consistent groupings and predictable ballistics. The Faxon barrel proved easy to get used to, with no significant adjustments needed to my shooting technique. I immediately appreciated the improved balance of my rifle, making it easier to transition between targets and maintain a stable shooting position.
However, the gas system seemed to need some adjustment initially, as it was slightly over-gassed. With an adjustable gas block, I was able to easily correct this and dial in the performance I wanted.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it during various range sessions and a couple of prairie dog hunts, and I have experienced no malfunctions directly attributable to the barrel itself. The nitride finish has held up well, showing no signs of wear or corrosion.
Cleaning and maintaining the barrel has been straightforward, thanks to the smooth nitride finish and high-quality rifling. I’ve found that a simple bore snake and occasional scrubbing with a solvent are sufficient to keep it in top condition. The Faxon barrel has easily outperformed my previous experiences with standard mil-spec barrels, offering greater accuracy and consistency with much less weight.
This Faxon barrel has exceeded my expectations in terms of accuracy, reliability, and overall handling, and has solidified itself as a permanent fixture in my AR-15 build.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel
Specifications
The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel boasts a carefully chosen set of specifications designed for optimal performance. The barrel is chambered in .22 ARC, a modern cartridge known for its excellent ballistic coefficient and long-range capabilities. The 16-inch barrel length strikes a balance between maneuverability and velocity, making it suitable for various applications.
The barrel is constructed from 416-R Stainless Steel, a material renowned for its corrosion resistance and ability to maintain accuracy over time. It also features 5R Button Rifling which promotes increased velocity and reduced projectile deformation. The 1:7 twist rate is optimized for stabilizing heavier .22 caliber bullets, further enhancing long-range accuracy.
The Gunner profile balances weight savings with rigidity, reducing fatigue while maintaining accuracy. It utilizes a Rifle length gas system providing smooth cycling. A Salt Bath Nitride finish protects both the inside and outside of the barrel from corrosion and wear.
The muzzle is threaded with 1/2×28 TPI for compatibility with a wide range of muzzle devices. The gas block journal has a diameter of .625″, and a journal length of 1.9″. The barrel extension is an M4 style extension with a Nickel Teflon coating for smoother cycling and increased corrosion resistance.
The entire barrel weighs in at just 1.57 lbs, a significant weight saving over heavier profile barrels. Each barrel is Magnetic Particle Inspected to ensure structural integrity, and features a Recessed Target Crown to protect the muzzle and maintain accuracy. It also Uses 6.5 Grendel bolt/BCG.
These specifications work in harmony to deliver a barrel that is accurate, durable, and easy to handle.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel truly shines in its performance. Accuracy is exceptional, consistently delivering sub-MOA groups with quality ammunition.
The combination of the 1:7 twist rate and 5R rifling effectively stabilizes heavier bullets, resulting in tight groupings at extended ranges. The barrel also cycles reliably with a variety of ammunition types, showing no signs of being finicky.
The Gunner profile offers an excellent balance between weight and stiffness. This profile helps to improve handling characteristics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel is well-designed and thoughtfully executed. The 416-R stainless steel construction exudes quality, and the nitride finish provides a sleek, professional look.
The barrel’s relatively light weight contributes to a more balanced and maneuverable rifle. The Gunner profile helps keep weight down without compromising rigidity, which is important for accuracy. The Faxon barrel is easy to install and fits seamlessly into any standard AR-15 upper receiver.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel is built to last. The combination of 416-R stainless steel and a nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. I anticipate this barrel will provide years of reliable service with proper care.
The barrel is relatively easy to clean and maintain. The smooth nitride finish reduces fouling and makes cleaning quick and easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories. The 1/2×28 TPI muzzle threads allow for the use of various muzzle devices, including suppressors, compensators, and flash hiders. The .625″ gas block journal accommodates most aftermarket gas blocks.
The M4 barrel extension ensures compatibility with standard AR-15 uppers and bolt carrier groups (BCGs). Because it is chambered in .22 ARC, it Uses 6.5 Grendel bolt/BCG.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel
Pros
- Excellent Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups, even at extended ranges.
- Lightweight Gunner Profile: Offers a great balance of weight and rigidity for improved handling.
- Durable Construction: 416-R stainless steel and nitride finish provide excellent corrosion resistance.
- Reliable Cycling: Cycles smoothly with a variety of ammunition types.
- Enhanced Corrosion Resistance: Salt bath nitride coating on the interior and exterior ensures long-term protection against rust and wear.
Cons
- Slightly Over-Gassed: May require an adjustable gas block for optimal performance.
- Requires 6.5 Grendel Bolt/BCG: Needs specific bolt and BCG, may require additional purchase.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel?
The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel is perfect for hunters looking for a lightweight, accurate barrel for long-range shooting. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who demand consistent performance and minimal recoil. Anyone building a lightweight AR-15 platform will benefit greatly from the Gunner profile.
Those who prioritize extreme long-range accuracy above all else might consider a heavier profile barrel for maximum stiffness. Those who prefer a simple, no-frills setup might find the need for an adjustable gas block to be a minor inconvenience. A must-have accessory would be an adjustable gas block to dial in the gas system perfectly.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel
The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel is an outstanding product that delivers on its promises. The balance of accuracy, weight, and durability is exceptional, making it a worthwhile upgrade for any AR-15 enthusiast looking to explore the .22 ARC cartridge. At $225.40, the price is justified given the quality of materials, precision machining, and enhanced performance.
I would personally recommend this barrel to anyone looking to build a lightweight, accurate, and reliable AR-15. The Faxon Firearms Match Series Gunner 16″ .22 ARC Barrel has become a staple in my personal arsenal, and I have no doubt that it will serve me well for years to come. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the difference!