First Impressions of Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel
The Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel promises precision and performance for the discerning shooter, and I was eager to see if it delivered. Faxon Firearms is known for its commitment to quality, and this barrel, chambered for both 6.5 Creedmoor and .264 Winchester Magnum, seemed like an excellent foundation for a custom rifle build. Its stainless steel construction and 1-8 twist rate suggested a barrel capable of delivering exceptional accuracy.
As a seasoned outdoorsman and tactical gear specialist, I’ve built my fair share of rifles, always seeking the optimal balance of precision, reliability, and durability. I needed a barrel that could consistently deliver sub-MOA accuracy at extended ranges, whether for hunting elk in the Rockies or competing in precision rifle matches. This barrel presented an exciting opportunity.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the clean machining and flawless finish of the Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel. The stainless steel gleamed, and there were no visible imperfections. It felt substantial in my hands, hinting at the quality of materials used and the precision of the manufacturing process. Compared to other barrels I’ve used from brands like Criterion and Proof Research, the Faxon Firearms barrel seemed to offer a similar level of craftsmanship at a more accessible price point. My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation to get this barrel installed and tested.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel took place at my local shooting range, under sunny skies and mild temperatures. I mounted the barrel on a custom AR-10 platform with a high-quality free-float handguard and a precision-tuned trigger. I tested the barrel using both 6.5 Creedmoor and .264 Winchester Magnum ammunition, representing a range of bullet weights and manufacturers.
The barrel performed admirably right out of the gate. Using match-grade 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition, I was consistently achieving sub-MOA groups at 100 yards. The recoil was manageable, and the barrel seemed to handle the pressures of both cartridges without issue. I did notice that the .264 Winchester Magnum generated significantly more heat than the 6.5 Creedmoor, requiring longer cooling periods between strings of fire.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it in various conditions, from dry and dusty range days to damp and chilly hunting trips. The barrel continues to deliver consistent accuracy. I’ve also been impressed with its resistance to corrosion and wear.
Despite frequent cleaning and lubrication, there are no signs of pitting or rust on the bore or exterior of the barrel. The rifling remains sharp and well-defined, indicating excellent material quality and manufacturing tolerances. Compared to a previous experience with a budget-barrel that quickly degraded in accuracy after only a few hundred rounds, the Faxon Firearms barrel is a clear winner in terms of durability and long-term performance. Maintaining the barrel has been relatively straightforward.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel
Specifications
- Caliber: Chambered for both 6.5mm Creedmoor and .264 Winchester Magnum, offering versatility. This allows shooters to choose between the ballistic efficiency of the 6.5 Creedmoor and the raw power of the .264 Winchester Magnum.
- Barrel Length: The 27-inch barrel length maximizes the velocity of both cartridges. This translates to flatter trajectories and increased effective range, which is crucial for long-range shooting and hunting.
- Gas System Length: Rifle-length gas system ensures smooth and reliable cycling on AR-10 platforms. This reduces felt recoil and improves overall shooting comfort.
- Barrel Twist Rate: The 1-8 twist rate is optimized for stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights. This is ideal for both cartridges.
- Barrel Material: Crafted from 416-R Stainless Steel, offering exceptional strength and corrosion resistance. This ensures a long service life and consistent performance, even under demanding conditions.
- Gun Make & Type: Designed for the AR Platform rifle. This allows for easy integration into existing AR-10 builds, providing a cost-effective upgrade path.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel excels in accuracy and reliability. It consistently delivers sub-MOA groups with match-grade ammunition, making it suitable for precision shooting and hunting applications. While the barrel performs admirably with both cartridges, the .264 Winchester Magnum generates noticeable recoil and heat.
The main strength is its versatility and accuracy, while a minor drawback is the increased heat generated by the .264 Winchester Magnum. The barrel meets and even exceeds expectations for a barrel in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The barrel’s stainless steel construction and clean lines contribute to its appealing aesthetic. Its weight is well-balanced, contributing to overall rifle stability. The smooth bore and polished finish aid in cleaning and maintenance.
The barrel is user-friendly and requires no special tools or expertise for installation (assuming the user is familiar with AR-10 builds). The fit and finish are excellent, instilling confidence in its quality and durability.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from high-quality 416-R stainless steel, the Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel is built to withstand rigorous use. Proper cleaning and lubrication will ensure a long service life. The barrel is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only standard cleaning supplies and techniques.
With proper care, this barrel should last for thousands of rounds without significant degradation in accuracy. The stainless steel construction makes it resistant to corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel is compatible with a wide range of AR-10 accessories. This includes free-float handguards, muzzle devices, and gas blocks. Its standard AR-10 barrel extension allows for easy installation on most AR-10 platforms.
The user can further customize the rifle with different optics, triggers, and stocks to optimize it for specific shooting needs. The Faxon Firearms barrel is compatible with most aftermarket AR-10 parts, offering extensive customization options.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups with match-grade ammunition.
- Versatile Caliber Options: Chambered for both 6.5 Creedmoor and .264 Winchester Magnum.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality 416-R stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Rifle-Length Gas System: Ensures smooth and reliable cycling on AR-10 platforms.
- Easy to Maintain: Stainless steel construction resists corrosion and simplifies cleaning.
Cons
- The .264 Winchester Magnum generates significant heat and recoil. This may not be ideal for extended shooting sessions without adequate cooling.
- While versatile, the 27-inch barrel length might be unwieldy for some users, particularly in confined spaces or for hunting in dense cover.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel?
The Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel is perfect for precision shooters, long-range hunters, and AR-10 enthusiasts seeking a versatile and accurate barrel. It’s ideal for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and demand consistent performance. Individuals building a custom AR-10 platform for match shooting or big game hunting will benefit significantly.
This product might not be suitable for those prioritizing maneuverability over long-range accuracy. Shooters sensitive to recoil might find the .264 Winchester Magnum chambering less desirable.
A high-quality free-float handguard, a precision-tuned trigger, and a reliable optic are must-have accessories to complement this barrel. A quality muzzle brake is also highly recommended when using the .264 Winchester Magnum cartridge.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel
The Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, accurate, and versatile barrel for their AR-10 platform. Its stainless steel construction, optimized twist rate, and dual-caliber compatibility make it a standout product in its price range.
The price of $275.08 is justified, considering the level of craftsmanship, materials used, and the performance it delivers. I would absolutely recommend it to fellow shooters and hunters looking for a reliable and accurate barrel for their AR-10 build.
If you’re ready to take your shooting to the next level, consider investing in the Faxon Firearms MPI 6.5mm/.264 Bore Rifle Barrel. You won’t be disappointed.