Anderson Manufacturing Barrel Autopsy

Published on July 6, 2020
Duration: 24:00

This in-depth analysis of an Anderson Manufacturing AR-15 barrel reveals significant quality control issues. Headspace was found to be short, and chamber mapping indicated constrictions causing potential extraction problems. Borescope inspection showed chrome flaking and a poorly machined muzzle crown, despite the barrel being chrome-lined.

Quick Summary

An Anderson Manufacturing AR-15 barrel autopsy revealed critical quality control failures, including short headspace, chamber constrictions identified by mapping, and internal defects like chrome flaking and a poor muzzle crown visible via borescope.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Specs
  2. 00:35Headspace Testing
  3. 02:38Throat & Muzzle Erosion
  4. 03:58Throat Gauge Binding
  5. 05:20Chamber Mapping Analysis
  6. 08:30Alignment & Clocking
  7. 11:10Gas Port Measurement
  8. 13:25Borescope Inspection

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main quality control issues found with the Anderson Manufacturing AR-15 barrel?

The barrel exhibited short headspace, failing to close on a 'go' gauge. Chamber mapping revealed constrictions, and borescope inspection showed chrome flaking, rough machining, and a poor muzzle crown.

How was the headspace of the Anderson Manufacturing barrel tested?

Headspace was tested using a trusted bolt carrier group and various headspace gauges (223, Wylde, and 5.56). The barrel failed to close on the 'go' gauge, indicating short headspace.

What did the chamber mapping reveal about the Anderson Manufacturing barrel?

Chamber mapping using a Sharpie and gauge identified binding points, revealing constrictions in the throat and mid-section of the chamber body. This can cause extraction and chambering issues.

What was the condition of the barrel's interior as seen through the borescope?

The borescope showed the barrel was chrome-lined but had signs of flaking and rough machining marks. Significant tooling marks were near the muzzle, and the muzzle crown was described as 'terrible'.

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