Hello all,
I’ve been lurking around here for quite a while trying to soak up knowledge while I finalize my first AR’s part list. I’m a might bit stumped regarding my barrel and bolt choice.
I am putting together a 20" SDM-R/A4/SPR-inspired setup. Mostly to train my own marksmanship abilities out as far as I’m able to, but also with a consideration towards possible hunting and second amendment contingencies.
I’m on a bit of a budget, and do to my own lack of skill, a high-end ultra match grade barrel is going to be something I can’t take advantage of (I’ll assemble the basics, first, and then save up for a Gisselle trigger and suitable piece of glass in the 2.5x10 range, and then consider a barrel upgrade).
That said, what should I be considering for a barrel (and bolt)?
[ol]
[li]Matched/headspaced bolt? How important is this? Compass Lake has a matched bolt and barrel.[/li][li]Barrel profile? Is there a difference between the Govt. Profile and a “medium” profile? For my uses which is going to be a better bet?[/li][li]1:7 or 1:8? I’ll be shooting the heavier bullets. Is the 1:7 going to make that much of a difference or is it practically a wash?[/li][li]M4 ramps? They important with rifle gas?[/li][li]Wylde vs. match chamber? Seems the Wylde chambers are the best bet out there, right? [/li][li]Chromed barrels increase the life of the barrel, but decrease accuracy, so I’ve heard. That something I need to worry about? I like finding any way to ease my maintenance and upkeep burden.[/li][/ol]
Along with the questions, are there any standout barrels in the low-mid price ranges? Preferably in stainless, too, as I live on the wet side of the Cascades.
Thanks for any insight you can toss my way.
TL;DR? Looking to build a SDM-R/A4/SPR type setup. Is there a 20", 1:7 or 1:8, Wylde chambered barrel in either Government or medium profile? Does it also happen to come in stainless?