vis-a-vis\u00a0<\/em>accuracy, heat dispersion, durability and weight) before making your choice.<\/p>\nLet\u2019s take a look at some AR15 barrel profiles and see what makes each one unique.<\/p>\n
Faxon Gunner Profile<\/h3>\n
The\u00a0Faxon Firearms\u00a0Gunner profile blends two of the best-performing profiles of all time: Government (Gov\u2019t) and Pencil.<\/p>\n
Faxon\u2019s Gunner profile combines the durability of the Gov\u2019t profile with the weight savings and maneuverability of the Pencil profile.<\/p>\n
The Gunner profile is designed to bring the balance of the rifle back toward the shooter\u2019s body, limiting fatigue and allowing them to shoot, train or hunt for extended periods of time.<\/p>\n
Government\/SOCOM Profile<\/h3>\n
A SOCOM barrel for an AR-15 is designed differently from the standard M4\/A2 barrel.<\/p>\n
Instead of being consistently thick throughout, it has a thinner section past the gas block and a thicker section near the chamber. SOCOM barrels often have a slot for attaching a grenade launcher and provide a balance between strength and weight.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re looking for a barrel that can handle sustained shooting while still being lightweight, a SOCOM barrel may be a good option to consider.<\/p>\n
Pencil Profile<\/h3>\n
The pencil barrel is the original profile for the AR-15. It typically measures 0.625 inches in diameter.<\/p>\n
It is known for being slim and lightweight, making it easy to carry and handle. However, its thinness makes it heat more quickly than its cousins, particularly during rapid fire. Overheating the barrel leads to elastic deformation or warping, which in turn affects accuracy and reliability.<\/p>\n
Faxon has worked to improve this limitation in that unlike run-of-the-mill pencil barrels, they heat-treat and stress-relieve the barrels during the manufacturing process to improve heat resistance and longevity.<\/p>\n
The durability of this AR15 barrel profile is ideal for shooters with a light or medium shooting schedule.<\/p>\n
What is the best all-around barrel profile?<\/h2>\n
Of course, barrel profile doesn\u2019t just affect AR15s and large-frame pistols. The barrel characteristics (not just the profile) of any\u00a0<\/em>firearm can greatly affect its overall performance and handling.<\/p>\nWe\u2019ve looked at the three most common barrel profiles: Gunner, Government and Pencil.<\/p>\n
Of those, the\u00a0Government\/SOCOM\u00a0provides the most stability with the greatest potential for accuracy. It does so because it\u2019s the thickest and heaviest style, which adds weight to the gun and to the shooter\u2019s aggregate loadout.<\/p>\n
The Pencil version is the thinnest and lightest option, making it easier to handle and carry, but it does sacrifice some stability and accuracy potential, especially during extended fire sessions.<\/p>\n
Faxon believes their Gunner barrel is the best general barrel choice, which is why they designed it. It provides what their engineers consider the best balance of the other two, offering a good compromise between weight, performance and durability.<\/p>\n
Ultimately, the choice of barrel profile will depend on the individual\u2019s personal preferences, but should absolutely be appropriate for the intended use of the rifle.<\/p>\n
Consider the trade-offs and choose the barrel profile that best suits\u00a0your\u00a0<\/em>needs!<\/p>\nLearn more about the Faxon Gunner Barrel (and other AR15 barrel profiles<\/a>) in the following video.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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