The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel Made a Bold First Impression
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel isn’t just another drop-in part; it promises enhanced accuracy and a significant weight reduction for any Ruger 10/22 build. Faxon Firearms aims to deliver match-grade performance in a lightweight package with this barrel. My initial assessment considered whether it lived up to that claim and whether the price justified the upgrade.
My need stemmed from a desire to lighten my existing 10/22 rifle, predominantly used for small game hunting and plinking. The factory barrel, while reliable, felt cumbersome after long days in the field. I’d been eyeing lightweight barrel options for a while, focusing on accuracy improvements, and the Faxon barrel’s promise of both caught my attention.
Unboxing the Faxon barrel, I was immediately struck by the sleek, dark finish of the salt bath nitride. The barrel felt incredibly light, far lighter than the factory barrel I was replacing. The stainless steel construction exuded quality, and the overall impression was one of meticulous craftsmanship.
I considered barrels from Brownells and Tactical Solutions, both reputable names in the rimfire market. However, the Faxon barrel stood out due to its combination of a truly lightweight pencil profile and the durability of a stainless steel core with a nitride finish. The price point was competitive, solidifying my decision. My excitement grew as I envisioned the improved handling and accuracy I hoped to achieve.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel was at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on my 10/22 receiver and paired it with a trusted optic. The range offered various distances, allowing me to assess accuracy at 25, 50, and 100 yards.
The weather was mild, with a slight breeze – typical for that area. The Faxon barrel delivered noticeable improvements in accuracy immediately. The rifle felt significantly lighter and more responsive, making target acquisition faster and more intuitive.
After the first 50 rounds, I was thoroughly impressed. There were no malfunctions, and the barrel seemed to settle in nicely after a few magazines. The improved balance and reduced weight made it easier to maintain a stable shooting position.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Faxon barrel has proven its reliability. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it, utilizing various .22 LR ammunition types. The barrel continues to perform consistently, exhibiting no signs of degradation.
The nitride finish has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or scratches. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a standard bore brush and solvent. It’s noticeably easier to clean than blued steel barrels I’ve used in the past.
Compared to the original factory barrel, the Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel has been a significant upgrade. The weight reduction is truly beneficial for all-day hunts, and the accuracy improvement translates to more successful shots. The barrel exceeded my expectations for both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 LR, the ubiquitous rimfire round known for its affordability and versatility. This caliber choice makes the barrel compatible with a wide array of readily available ammunition.
- Weight: 1 lb, a significant factor contributing to the overall lightweight design. This light weight enhances maneuverability and reduces fatigue during extended use.
- Barrel Length: 16″, a common barrel length that balances accuracy and compactness. This length provides a good sight radius for improved aiming and maintains adequate velocity for consistent performance.
- Contour: Pencil, denoting a slim profile that minimizes weight. The pencil contour makes it ideal for builds prioritizing handling and portability.
- Finish: Salt Bath Nitride, a surface treatment that enhances corrosion resistance and hardness. This finish ensures long-lasting durability and reduces the need for frequent maintenance.
- Material: 416-R Stainless Steel, a high-quality steel known for its strength and corrosion resistance. The stainless steel construction ensures reliable performance and longevity.
- Make: Ruger, designed as a drop-in upgrade for Ruger 10/22 rifles. This ensures seamless compatibility and easy installation.
These specifications contribute to a barrel that is both accurate and lightweight, making it an ideal upgrade for a variety of shooting applications. The nitride finish and stainless steel construction provide long-lasting durability, while the pencil contour minimizes weight for improved handling.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel excels in delivering improved accuracy and handling. My groups at 50 yards tightened considerably compared to the factory barrel.
Its greatest strength is its ability to maintain consistent accuracy even after prolonged firing sessions. The lightweight design makes it easier to hold steady, reducing shooter fatigue.
The design could benefit from a slightly more aggressive thread protector. While functional, it sometimes comes loose during extended shooting. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a drop-in barrel upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The barrel’s build quality is immediately apparent. The 416-R stainless steel feels robust, and the nitride finish provides a smooth, even surface. At 1 lb, it strikes a perfect balance between lightweight handling and sufficient mass for accuracy.
The drop-in design means there’s virtually no learning curve. Anyone familiar with the Ruger 10/22 platform can easily install it.
Durability & Maintenance
The combination of 416-R stainless steel and salt bath nitride finish ensures excellent durability. Based on my experience so far, I expect this barrel to last for thousands of rounds.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only standard cleaning procedures. The nitride finish makes carbon fouling easier to remove.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel is designed as a drop-in replacement and does not come with accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of 10/22 accessories.
It readily accepts standard 1/2×28 threaded muzzle devices, allowing for the attachment of suppressors or muzzle brakes. It pairs perfectly with aftermarket stocks and triggers, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel
Pros
- Significantly reduced weight improves handling and reduces fatigue. The pencil barrel profile makes a noticeable difference in the rifle’s overall balance.
- Enhanced accuracy translates to tighter groups and more consistent performance. Shooters will notice improved precision at various distances.
- Durable 416-R stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting reliability. The barrel can withstand rigorous use and harsh environments.
- Corrosion-resistant salt bath nitride finish protects against wear and tear. The finish minimizes the need for frequent maintenance.
- Easy drop-in installation requires no gunsmithing. Installation is straightforward for anyone familiar with the Ruger 10/22 platform.
Cons
- The thread protector can loosen during extended firing sessions. A more aggressive texture or locking mechanism would be beneficial.
- The price point might be prohibitive for budget-conscious shooters. However, the performance justifies the investment for serious enthusiasts.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel?
This barrel is perfect for small game hunters who need a lightweight and accurate rifle. Competitive shooters seeking an edge will also appreciate the improved precision. Any 10/22 owner looking for a significant upgrade in handling and accuracy will benefit from this barrel.
Those primarily focused on budget builds or who are content with factory-level performance should skip this product. It’s an investment in performance, not a basic replacement part.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality optic to fully realize the barrel’s accuracy potential. Upgrading the trigger will further enhance the shooting experience.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel
The Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel is a worthwhile upgrade for any serious Ruger 10/22 enthusiast. It delivers on its promise of improved accuracy and significant weight reduction.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and the noticeable performance gains. It’s an investment in your shooting experience, not just a cosmetic upgrade.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Faxon Firearms Rimfire Pencil Barrel .22 LR 16″ Salt Bath Nitride 416-R Stainless Barrel to anyone seeking to enhance their 10/22’s accuracy and handling. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!