AR-15 Bull Barrel: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to enhancing the performance and aesthetics of your AR-15 rifle, one of the most significant upgrades you can make is to replace the factory barrel with a bull barrel. A bull barrel is known for its superior accuracy, durability, and distinctive look. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of the AR-15 bull barrel, including its design, benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Design and Construction
The AR-15 bull barrel is characterized by its thick, heavy-duty construction. Unlike the standard AR-15 barrel, which typically has a wall thickness of around 0.08 inches, a bull barrel boasts a wall thickness of 0.12 inches or more. This increased thickness provides enhanced durability and resistance to wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for heavy-duty applications.
One of the defining features of a bull barrel is its straightness. The barrel is precision-machined to ensure that it is as straight as possible, which is crucial for maintaining accuracy over time. The straightness of the barrel is measured in inches per 1000 yards, with a bull barrel typically offering a value of 0.0005 inches or less.
Another important aspect of the design is the chambering. Bull barrels are available in various calibers, including 5.56 NATO, .223 Remington, and 7.62x39mm. The chambering you choose will depend on your specific needs and the type of ammunition you plan to use.
Benefits of a Bull Barrel
There are several benefits to upgrading to a bull barrel for your AR-15 rifle:
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Improved Accuracy: The increased wall thickness and straightness of a bull barrel contribute to better accuracy, especially at longer distances. This makes it an excellent choice for competitive shooting, hunting, and tactical applications.
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Increased Durability: The thicker barrel walls provide greater resistance to wear and tear, ensuring that your rifle will last longer and perform consistently over time.
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Enhanced Aesthetics: The distinctive look of a bull barrel adds a touch of class to your AR-15 rifle, making it stand out from the crowd.
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Customization: Bull barrels are available in various lengths, contours, and materials, allowing you to tailor your rifle to your specific preferences and needs.
Choosing the Right Bull Barrel
When selecting a bull barrel for your AR-15 rifle, there are several factors to consider:
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Caliber: Ensure that the barrel is compatible with your rifle’s chambering and the ammunition you plan to use.
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Length: Bull barrels are available in various lengths, from 10 inches to 20 inches and beyond. The length you choose will depend on your intended use, such as hunting, tactical operations, or recreational shooting.
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Contour: The contour of the barrel affects its weight, balance, and heat dissipation. Popular contours include the carbine, mid-length, and heavy.
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Material: Bull barrels are typically made from stainless steel, chrome-molybdenum, or titanium. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
Here is a table summarizing the key features of some popular bull barrel options:
| Brand | Caliber | Length | Contour | Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson Combat | 5.56 NATO | 16 inches | Heavy | Chrome-molybdenum |
| Rock Creek barrel | .223 Remington | 18 inches | Carbine | Stainless steel |
| DPMS | 7.62x39mm | 20 inches | Mid-length |
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