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3/18/2014 2:26:15 PM EDT
I am building an AR with a 20" barrel and will primarily use it as a plinking/hunting gun.  Should I get a chrome lined barrel or just the chrome molly barrel?  I have read different reviews on both.  I am debating between a 20" Stag Arms Chrome Molly barrel and a Criterion 20" Chrome lined barrel.  Price difference is $130...

https://www.stagarms.com/20-5-56-heavy-barrel/

http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/barrel-parts/rifle-barrels/ar15-m16-criterion-barrels-prod54733.aspx?avs|Cartridge_1=AJO_223%20Wylde

Thanks,
David
3/18/2014 2:32:37 PM EDT
[#1]
That criterion is going to be a LOT lighter which you will appreciate when hunting.
It is 1:8 with Wylde chamber.

The stag is HBAR and 1:9.


You are comparing apples and oranges.

How heavy will you hunting bullets be?
3/18/2014 6:28:06 PM EDT
[#2]
The criterion is HBAR also.  Should I be looking at 20" or 24" barrels for  plinking and hunting?
3/18/2014 7:10:16 PM EDT
[#3]
For me?  16".  Unless we are talking varmint hunting at distance.  Then 20 or 24" and probably 1:9 or even 1:10.
3/19/2014 5:14:43 PM EDT
[#4]
for hunting woods nothing over 16" or you will regret it for long range varmit go with the 20"- 24" thats what ive learned from experience.
3/19/2014 6:25:51 PM EDT
[#5]
I love 20" and have more rifles than carbines  my go to gun is a 20". That said, i sold my hbar. Not cause it didnt shoot amazing, its just not comfy to sling around. Its not heavy necessarily, Its just not fun n comfy either. Especially over time. I vote not hbar unless youre shooting competition and just have to have it.

That said non chrome is fine with me if the price is right. I have both styles, both shoot good, both clean easy enough, but i keep my guns pretty clean all the time. If price is close, chrome will last longer, if you can get a great price on non chrome, id take it, just know it wont last quite as long. It simply boils down to the price....
3/19/2014 6:48:34 PM EDT
[#6]
My only AR right now is the Ruger SR-556.  I am building an AR using Anderson Lower and Upper and am thinking I want a 20" barrel.  Can you recommend a good 20" barrel?  I would prefer under $300.
3/19/2014 6:49:46 PM EDT
[#7]
I also clean my guns after every outing with them...
3/19/2014 7:03:18 PM EDT
[#8]
Is this a good 16" barrel?

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/985190/daniel-defense-barrel-ar-15-556x45mm-nato-government-contour-mid-length-gas-port-1-in-7-twist-16-hammer-forged-chrome-lined-chrome-moly-matte?cm_vc=ProductFinding

I'd like to find a nice 20" barrel though I think... Decisions decisions
3/19/2014 7:07:01 PM EDT
[#9]
I prefer 16 around here too, BUT to answer your question... I vote 20.

I have one of the Stag 20" barrels sitting on my safe right now. Never did get around to using it, but all my other Stags are more than accurate enough for plinking and hunting.

What about 18"?  The velocity gain in that last 2" is 20fps or less if memory serves.
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