Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel Review

First Thoughts on the Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel

The Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel promises a blend of lightweight maneuverability and the unwavering reliability that Wilson Combat is known for. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless barrels come and go, each with its own set of promises. This one, however, caught my eye with its unique Ranger profile and intermediate gas system, suggesting a commitment to both weight reduction and smooth cycling.

My quest for the perfect AR build led me here. I was tired of lugging around a front-heavy rifle during long training days. The promise of a lighter, faster-handling platform was incredibly appealing.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was quality. The matte bead-blasted stainless steel finish spoke of durability, and the crisp CNC markings were a testament to precision. Compared to some of the budget barrels I’ve handled, the Wilson Combat offering felt noticeably more refined.

Initially, I had considered a similar barrel from Brownells and a lightweight option from Faxon Firearms. The Wilson Combat barrel edged them out due to the combination of the intermediate gas system (which I hoped would soften recoil) and the established reputation of Wilson Combat for accuracy. My first impression was excitement – could this be the key to unlocking a more agile and enjoyable AR experience?

Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, a familiar environment for evaluating AR components. I installed the Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel on a mil-spec upper receiver, paired it with a reliable bolt carrier group, and hit the 100-yard line. The weather was mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight crosswind.

The first few magazines revealed a noticeable difference in recoil impulse. The intermediate gas system seemed to deliver on its promise, providing a smoother, more manageable shooting experience compared to my AR with a standard carbine-length gas system. There were no immediate issues; the rifle cycled flawlessly with both 55-grain and 62-grain ammunition.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple range sessions and a carbine course, the Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel has proven to be remarkably reliable. The stainless steel finish has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear around the gas block. I clean the barrel after each range trip using a standard bore snake and solvent.

The accuracy has remained consistent throughout. I’m consistently achieving sub-MOA groups with match-grade ammunition. Compared to my previous AR barrel, which was a standard chrome-lined mil-spec offering, the Wilson Combat barrel represents a significant upgrade in precision and overall shooting comfort.

Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel

Specifications

• Chamber: 5.56 NATO. This ensures compatibility with both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition, offering versatility and accessibility.
• Profile: Ranger. The Ranger profile is a lightweight taper that significantly reduces weight without sacrificing accuracy.
• Finish: Matte Bead-Blasted Stainless. This finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface, suitable for tactical applications.
• Gas Block Seat: .750″ Diameter by .920″ Length – Dimpled for Set Screw. A standard gas block size allows for easy installation of various aftermarket gas blocks, and the dimpling ensures secure set screw placement.
• Gas System: Intermediate-Length (Wilson Combat Only 13.25″). The intermediate gas system reduces recoil and increases reliability compared to shorter gas systems.
• Length: 16″. This is a legal minimum for rifle barrels in the United States, providing a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance.
• Material: Stainless Steel, Type 416R, Barrel Grade. 416R stainless steel is known for its excellent machinability, corrosion resistance, and ability to maintain accuracy under high heat.
• Muzzle Threads: 1/2″ x 28. This is the standard thread pitch for 5.56 barrels, allowing for the attachment of a wide variety of muzzle devices.
• Rifling: 1:8, Precision Button Rifling. The 1:8 twist rate stabilizes a wide range of bullet weights, from lightweight varmint rounds to heavier match-grade projectiles.

Performance & Functionality

The Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel excels in delivering a smooth shooting experience and consistent accuracy. The intermediate gas system noticeably reduces felt recoil, making it easier to maintain a sight picture during rapid fire. The accuracy is exceptional, easily capable of sub-MOA groupings with quality ammunition and a skilled shooter.

The primary strength lies in its combination of lightweight design and enhanced recoil management. However, some might find the intermediate gas system less compatible with extremely low-powered ammunition. It exceeds expectations by providing match-grade accuracy in a lightweight and reliable package.

Design & Ergonomics

The Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel boasts excellent build quality. The 416R stainless steel provides a robust and corrosion-resistant platform. The weight reduction achieved by the Ranger profile is immediately noticeable, improving the rifle’s overall balance.

There is no learning curve. Installation is straightforward for anyone familiar with AR-15 assembly.

Durability & Maintenance

The 416R stainless steel construction ensures exceptional durability. With proper care and cleaning, this barrel should last for thousands of rounds. Maintaining the barrel is simple, requiring only regular cleaning with standard bore cleaning tools and solvents.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel, being a standard AR-15 component, is compatible with a vast array of accessories. The .750 gas block seat allows for the installation of various aftermarket gas blocks, including adjustable models for fine-tuning the gas system. The 1/2″ x 28 muzzle threads accommodate a wide range of muzzle devices, such as suppressors, compensators, and flash hiders.

Wilson Combat offers the barrel as a standalone component or in a combo with an intermediate gas tube. The Wilson Combat barrel is compatible with most AR-15 uppers and bolt carrier groups.

Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel

Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel?

The Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel is perfect for shooters who prioritize weight reduction, improved recoil management, and exceptional accuracy. This barrel is an excellent choice for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and anyone who spends extended periods carrying their AR-15. Someone building a lightweight hunting rifle would also benefit greatly from this barrel.

Those on a very tight budget might want to explore less expensive options. Also, individuals who primarily shoot extremely low-powered ammunition might experience cycling issues and should consider a barrel with a different gas system length.

A quality free-floating handguard will help to maximize the accuracy potential of this barrel. Also, consider an adjustable gas block for fine-tuning the gas system for optimal performance with different ammunition types.

Conclusion on Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel

The Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel is a premium AR-15 barrel that delivers on its promises of lightweight maneuverability, reduced recoil, and exceptional accuracy. While it comes with a higher price tag than some of its competitors, the performance and quality justify the investment. The value is exceptional given the accuracy and feel.

I would highly recommend this barrel to anyone looking to upgrade their AR-15 with a focus on weight reduction and improved shooting dynamics. If you’re ready to experience the difference a high-quality barrel can make, the Wilson Combat Ranger Barrel 5.56 16in Round Intermediate Gas Barrel is an excellent choice. It transforms your AR into a lighter, faster, and more accurate platform, making it a worthwhile upgrade for serious shooters.