Criterion 16” HBAR Tested - Part 1

Published on September 18, 2025
Duration: 15:05

This video provides a detailed review and testing of a Criterion 16-inch HBAR AR-15 barrel. The presenter covers the barrel's specifications, conducts a thorough inspection including chamber and bore scoping after approximately 1,000 rounds, and performs range testing with three different ammunition types. The testing focuses on accuracy, velocity, and signs of wear, revealing interesting performance characteristics and potential pressure signs.

Quick Summary

The Criterion 16" HBAR AR-15 barrel features a 16-inch length, 223 Wylde chamber, 1:8 twist, and 4150 chromoly vanadium steel construction with a chrome-lined bore. After 1,000 rounds, the throat showed wear, but the bore remained good. It achieved a 1.954 MOA 30-shot group with IMI Razor Core 77gr, but exhibited high velocities and potential pressure signs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Barrel Specs
  2. 00:54Barrel Inspection & Gauging
  3. 02:06Borescope Inspection (1000 Rounds)
  4. 02:57Throat Wear Comparison
  5. 03:45Rifling & Gas Port Inspection
  6. 04:17Shooting Setup & Range Gear
  7. 05:43Ammunition & Testing Plan
  8. 06:04IMI Razor Core 77gr Group Test
  9. 09:18Hornady 73gr ELD Match Group Test
  10. 11:48Winchester M193 55gr Group Test
  11. 14:01Overall Results & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specifications of the Criterion 16" HBAR barrel tested?

The Criterion 16" HBAR features a 16-inch length, a 223 Wylde chamber, a 1:8 twist rate, 6-groove button rifling, and is constructed from 4150 chromoly vanadium steel. It includes 1/2x28 threads, a mid-length gas system, a phosphate-coated exterior, and a chrome-lined bore.

How did the Criterion 16" HBAR perform in terms of accuracy with different ammunition types?

The Criterion 16" HBAR achieved a 30-shot group of 1.954 MOA with IMI Razor Core 77gr, but struggled with Hornady 73gr ELD Match (2.994 MOA) and Winchester M193 55gr (4.855 MOA) at 100 yards.

What signs of wear were observed on the Criterion 16" HBAR after 1,000 rounds?

After approximately 1,000 rounds, the throat of the Criterion 16" HBAR showed visible wear, including chrome flaking and cracking, with copper fouling present in these damaged areas. The bore and chamber appeared to be in good condition.

Did the Criterion 16" HBAR exhibit any pressure signs with the tested ammunition?

Yes, ejector marks and primer cratering were observed on brass fired from the Criterion 16" HBAR, particularly with IMI Razor Core and Winchester M193. This, combined with high velocities, suggested potential over-pressure concerns.

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