[streetstang67]

What is the benefit of a stainless steel barrel over a normal 'black' barrel? I'm choosing a new hunting rifle and I figured I'd get a matte black gun and barrel for less reflection and to be more rugged. Now I'm seeing a lot of addes for the longevity and ruggedness of stainless steel barrels. How do these two compare?

[Karbon]

From what others have told me, and from what I have read, they do not rust as easy. Many people just like the looks of SS.

The Tikka I just picked up has a matte, rough finsih stainless steel.

IMO, they look better, but I also couldn't get one in black with the the laminated stock I liked. I'm not sorry I got it.

[30Cal]

More idiot-proof (corrosion) and slightly less prone to fouling.

[streetstang67]

I think I'll just stick with the matte black barrel, because I keep my guns clean anyway. Thanks for the input

[DWARREN123]

Usually less rust/stain resistant (depends on type). They may last longer with hot loads and lots of firing (depends on type). May clean up easier (depends on type). Usually a little harder to machine.
Different look.