I’m thinking of getting another M1 and was wondering which option would be the better choice;
An original military barrel with a good Muzzle and TE numbers or
A new replacement barrel and from which manufactor?
I’ve also read that chrome lined barrels are now available as replacements for the M1, anyone have any thoughts or experience with these?
And if anyone would like to add any thoughts on barrel life for the M1, I’ve never ran one hard as would be expected with an AR in a carbine class but I’ve shot a few highpower matches before that only expend about 80 rounds in a day. Was more curious about firing a .30-06 in an unlined barrel.
You could spend time looking for a genuine GI barrel in good condition, or you could just buy a Krieger Criterion replacement barrel from the manufacturer, the CMP, or Midway.
The Krieger is new manufacture and will be as accurate and durable as you can get. You won’t need to be concerned about throat and muzzle wear, and any other dings that would come from a 50 to 60 year old barrel.
Brownells also carries Wilson Garand barrels.
GI M1 and match barrels were not chrome lined – there wasn’t reason for it with the 30-06 and long operating rod system.
I guess I’m in the minority. I like using original USGI or Dane VAR barrels. I have never had a problem finding excellent condition barrels in the $150 - $300 range. They made millions of them.