15,000 Rounds Later: Does This Criterion Barrel Still Shoot Straight?

Published on August 21, 2024
Duration: 14:14

This extensive 15,000-round test reveals the surprising longevity of a Criterion CORE series AR-15 barrel. Despite significant internal wear, including fire cracking and erosion, the barrel maintained respectable accuracy, particularly with 77gr handloads. The test highlights how barrel degradation impacts ammunition sensitivity and emphasizes the importance of rigorous testing methodologies.

Quick Summary

After 15,000 rounds, a Criterion CORE barrel showed significant internal wear, including fire cracking and erosion. Despite this, it maintained respectable accuracy, achieving a 2.26 MOA group with 77gr handloads and ranking high on a performance leaderboard.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Barrel Specs
  2. 01:00Internal Wear Inspection (Borescope)
  3. 01:49Test Methodology & Equipment
  4. 03:12Ammunition Selection
  5. 03:29Performance Analysis & Results
  6. 11:15Conclusion & Leaderboard Ranking

Frequently Asked Questions

How much wear did the Criterion barrel show after 15,000 rounds?

After 15,000 rounds, the Criterion CORE barrel exhibited significant internal wear, including 'alligator skin' fire cracking and erosion. A throat erosion gauge showed wear from 0/1 to 6/7, and borescope footage revealed missing material and visible copper fouling.

What was the accuracy of the Criterion barrel at 15,000 rounds?

Despite extensive wear, the barrel maintained surprising accuracy. It achieved a 2.26 MOA group with 77gr handloads, ranking second on the reviewer's leaderboard against barrels with significantly fewer rounds fired.

How did barrel wear affect the Criterion barrel's performance?

The internal degradation made the barrel highly sensitive to ammunition type and fouling levels. Different loads produced vastly different group sizes, indicating a loss of consistency compared to its earlier life.

What is the expected service life of a Criterion barrel?

Criterion barrels are generally expected to last between 10,000 to 20,000 rounds, depending on firing schedules and maintenance practices. This test shows they can perform well even at the higher end of that range.

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