I currently have two 18" precision style ARs in my stable, a MK12 mod 1, and a franken build with an F1 barrel. Overall I'm pretty happy with how they both turned out, however it makes no sense to have two precision style guns in the stable. My plan is to use the MK12 for slow paced precision time at the range, and turn my franken gun into my general purpose blaster. I'm not sure how high volume quicker paced shooting will affect the life of the current F1 barrel, as the bore is not chrome lined, or coated at all, but I'm sure it will eventually wear out. Initially I wanted to buy a 4150 CMV chrome lined barrel, because they are known to take abuse, and I find chrome lined barrels require less maintenance than stainless. However, I'm curious about the recent crop of stainless QPQ/Nitride coated barrels that have become available. In my mind they seem to offer the best of both worlds. For one, they are available in multiple profiles which I like, because I prefer a medium to heavy profile barrel over the standard govt. profile. (Most CMV chrome barrels only come in govt. profile) Furthermore, if I can purchase something that offers the accuracy of a stainless barrel, and offers the longevity and ease of cleaning of a chrome lined barrel I would be a happy camper. Does anybody have any experience with stainless nitride coated barrels? How has the performance of the barrel held up with time/use? Does the nitride finish lend itself to easy clean ups after a day at the range?
Just as an aside the barrels I'm considering are: Faxon 18" heavy fluted, Criterion 18" stainless nitride, and Seekins 18" stainless nitride.
Bookmarks