Quick Tip: What Is "Breaking In" a New Barrel?

Published on August 5, 2020
Duration: 5:16

This guide details the process of breaking in a new firearm barrel, primarily focusing on premium match-grade options. It explains that break-in is intended to smooth microscopic imperfections from the manufacturing process, like button or cut rifling. The process involves firing shots and cleaning between them to manage copper fouling. Barrels with hard finishes like chrome-lining or nitriding, common in AR-15s, generally do not require this procedure. The information is presented with high authority by Brownells, a leading firearms parts and gunsmithing resource.

Quick Summary

Breaking in a new barrel is primarily recommended for premium match-grade types to smooth microscopic machining imperfections. The process involves firing a shot and cleaning between shots to manage copper fouling. Hardened barrels like chrome-lined or nitrided ones, common in AR-15s, do not typically require this procedure.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Barrel Break-In Controversy
  2. 00:41When Break-In is Necessary
  3. 01:01The Physical Process of Breaking In
  4. 02:11Barrels That Don't Need Break-In
  5. 04:02Pistol Barrels & Caliber Considerations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of breaking in a new barrel?

Breaking in a new barrel aims to smooth out microscopic rough edges left from the manufacturing process, like button or cut rifling. This 'lapping' effect helps the barrel perform at its peak by ensuring a smoother passage for bullets.

Which types of barrels require a break-in procedure?

Primarily, premium match-grade barrels benefit from a break-in procedure. Barrels with hard finishes like chrome-lining or nitriding, commonly found on AR-15s, generally do not require this process.

How is a barrel typically broken in?

The process involves firing a shot and then thoroughly cleaning the barrel to remove copper fouling. This cycle is repeated according to the manufacturer's specific recommendations to achieve the desired smoothing effect.

Do pistol barrels need to be broken in?

Generally, pistol barrels do not require a break-in procedure. This is due to their typically larger bore diameters and different throat geometries compared to rifle barrels, which are less prone to the same types of imperfections.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Brownells, Inc.

View all →