AR barrel advice

[srothstein]

I have never been too into the AR platform and have never owned one. I have decided it is time for me to get one and I need some advice. My goal is to build an Ar that is based on the M16A1 variant that I used in the Army. Obviously, it will not be an exact duplicate, but it will be chambered for 5.56mm, have a 20 inch barrel, triangular firearm, and a fixed carrying handle. The original M16A1 used 1:12 twist rate for the barrel.

I am thinking I want a different rate to handle slightly heavier ammo. What twist rate do you all recommend? I have seen the 20" thin barrels available in 1:7, 1:9, and 1:12 and I feel confident I could find other rates if I look. which rate would you recommend and which bullet weight would you recommend with it?

[Greybeard]

My 20" Rock River has a 1:9 twist. I've been pleased with groups of (primary load) 64 grain Winchester Power Point.

[74novaman]

This may be helpful.



This being said, I’ve shot 55gr xm193 in 1:7 twist barrels and it does okay.

[srothstein]

Thanks. That information from both of you does help.

[Paladin]

1:7 is what the military uses these days.

[der Teufel]

1:7 is what the military uses these days.

True, but it's my understanding that the primary reason they're using 1:7 is to stabilize tracer bullets which are longer than most other bullets.

[AdioSS]

I prefer 1:8