Are you looking to build an AR-15 but not sure where to start? One critical aspect of assembling your rifle is choosing the right barrel. With so many options available, choosing between carbine, mid-length, or rifle-length barrels can be overwhelming. We’ll break down the essentials of selecting a barrel — from materials to lengths and more — so that you can make an informed decision when it comes time to assemble your first AR-15.
Getting Started
When choosing a barrel, there are plenty of options. However, there are some considerations you need to make before you make that decision. These include things such as if you are building a rifle, pistol, or short barrel rifle (SBR). Then you’ll have to decide if you want to prioritize weight, accuracy, distance, or cost. There are also a couple of other considerations, but this is enough to get you started finding the correct parts for your build.
Barrels
When choosing a barrel, the first choice is what version of the AR platform you’re after. If you want a pistol or SBR rifle, your barrel length will be under 16 inches, or the overall firearm length needs to be less than 26 inches. If your firearm falls under these dimensions and is not a pistol, you’ll need to take proper legal action to own this firearm legally.
With that said, let’s say you’re planning on getting a barrel less than 16 inches. This will fall into a few categories. It will be lightweight, compact in build, maneuverable, and concealable. The downsides to this will be a higher feeling of recoil, loss of accuracy, and range.
You can, however, go with lightweight options 16 inches in length or greater, which may cost more, but you will not lose on the general use of the rifle and will maintain decent range and accuracy. Standard 16-inch lightweight barrels for an AR-15 are your best choice for someone looking for the best compromise of affordability, light weight, accuracy, range, and variability in use.
If you’re looking for something with a bit more range and accuracy and are willing to carry a bit more weight and spend a bit more money, mid-weight barrels are perfect for someone who isn’t ready to commit to a heavy or longer marksman-style barrel.
Here are some of the different materials an AR-15 Barrel could be made of steel and stainless steel, titanium, carbon fiber wrapped, or fiberglass-wrapped barrels. All these will give different benefits, namely, the higher the price here, the lighter they will be without sacrificing barrel length to achieve the light weight.
The range and accuracy you want to see will determine the barrels’ lengths. Generally, the longer the barrel, the better your range and accuracy, so it is best to go as big as you’re comfortable with. A bigger barrel also means less perceived recoil.
Get Your Own Upper Or Complete AR-15
The Side Charge AR-15 Designs from Critical Objectives are the perfect choice for those who appreciate unique firearms. This rifle will turn heads at the range and garner great respect from other gun owners. Not only will you enjoy the amazing function and flexibility of this rifle, but also its distinct look.
Maybe you are interested in opting for just an upper receiver with side-charge capability – we can make that happen! With its quality craftsmanship, sleek design, and fantastic value, our Side Charge AR-15 Designs at Critical Objectives should be your go-to choice for a new AR-15. Contact us and get yours today!