we all know that bushmaster dropped their .308 abruptly. I have one nib they sent me after the first  one malfunctioned (broken bolt, etc.). before I decide to keep it or sell it I decided to check into parts availability. they will sell extra bolts ($149) but they told me that they won't sell extra barrels.  the sales rep I talked to said the barrel was good for 5k rounds as if that was all I should expect out of the rifle. I told him I would shoot it that much in a year. anyone have a source for these barrels. can't think why anyone would make them. thanks.

While I think the 5k life expectancy is total BS, any gunsmith worth his salt can replace the barrel with any brand he chooses.

Shilen, Wilson, Krieger, Pac Nor, any one you want.

Mike

ps - where do you think replacement barrels for Armalites, DPMS or any AR15 comes from, as they all start out life as a barrel blank (of varying profiles) spec'd for specific calibers and are fitting/headspaced to the upper.  

mr. wilson:
 I agree with you on the 5k limit. I've had several .308 rifles that I have exceeded 10k rounds without noticeable deterioration of performance, including an m1a and an fal.
thanks for the comment on barrels. I've just had a look at some of the sources and the  barrel extension could be threaded off the old barrel and reused.  

mr_wilson


Well said,

The only issue is attempting to get a hold of the barrel extension for the Bushmaster .308, if I could find a source for them then the issue of replacement barrels would end.