bushmaster m4 patrolmans barrel vs. 16"heavy fluted barrel

[cwc5]

Any advice on if this would be a good idea to upgrade to this fluted barrel ? I think I can get them to trade me and only pay 65.00 including shipping. I have just never seen their fluted barrel

 

[atblis]

How's the gun shoot now? If it is accurate and reliable, I wouldn't change a thing.

 

[RockyMtnTactical]

What primary purpose will this gun serve? I would prefer a lighter barrel...

 

[Coronach]

What RMT said; what's the use? If your purpose is laying very still and making lots of little tiny groups in distant pieces of paper and/or animals, get the HB. However, if this is a multi-use fighting carbine, go with the lighter barrel.

Mike

 

[Z-Michigan]

What Coronach said.

 

[cwc5]

Reply to postings

Thank you all for your time. I guess my main reason would be to have a more accurate rifle. True, I dont shoot over 500 yards, and im not really sure if I would benefit from the fluted heavy barrel. Im not even sure of the weight difference. I guess i need to do more homework. Bushmaster will do the barrel change with a 18 day turnaround for 50.00 plus 16.00 shipping, if that changes any minds. Thanks again, Chris

 

[cwc5]

I meant 300 yds

I stated that I rarely shoot over 500 yds, i meant 300

 

[Z-Michigan]

It would probably add around 1 pound or so. Your biggest accuracy improvement would probably be from a free-float forend, not changing the barrel, although the heavier barrel will probably provide some benefit. Really it depends on your use - if you sit at a bench and shoot paper or varmints, it may be a good swap. If you have much plan to carry the rifle or use it in any kind of action shooting (3-gun, ACTS, etc.) then the lighter barrel is probably better.

 

[matrem]

The Two ARs that I shoot most are a 16" M4gery stamped B/MP 1/9 (same bbl as you're referring to) and a 20" stainless fluted heavy bbl. The heavy bbl is more accurate with all common loads that I've tried.That advantage, however, might equal 1 1/2" at 200 yards. (5 shot group)
After the "newness" of the hvy bbl wore off,I seldom even use it on a 300yd max ground hog field. There is a LOT to be said for lighter weight.

 

[Shadow Man]

For target shooting, a heavy barrel can be a plus. It takes far longer for them to heat up, so your groups will remain tighter. However, once they heat up they take a long time to cool back down.

For 3-gun style competition, a lighter barrel is what you need. Not only does it greatly reduce weight, but the minor reduction in accuracy from a hot barrel is going to be nearly unnoticable in a fast-paced competition.