What Is The Best AR-15 Pistol Barrel Length?

Published on May 6, 2025
Duration: 18:23

This video from Classic Firearms explores the optimal barrel length for AR-15 pistols, presenting empirical data on muzzle velocity. Experts Kaya, Jason, Matt, Brandon, and Ryan from Classic Firearms use a Ballistic Advantage upper receiver and a Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph to test 7.5", 10.5", 11.5", and 12.5" barrels with 55gr and 62gr ammunition. The data reveals significant velocity gains between 7.5" and 10.5", with diminishing returns thereafter, concluding that 11.5" or 12.5" are generally preferred for versatility, while 7.5" is viable for extreme close-quarters.

Quick Summary

Classic Firearms experts analyze AR-15 pistol barrel lengths (7.5" to 12.5") using chronographs, detailing muzzle velocity gains for 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem. The data reveals significant velocity increases from 7.5" to 10.5", with 11.5" or 12.5" being optimal for general use.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: AR-15 Pistol Barrel Length Debate
  2. 01:32Testing Methodology: Ballistic Advantage Uppers
  3. 04:467.5-inch Barrel Velocity Test
  4. 06:3310.5-inch Barrel Velocity Test
  5. 08:0211.5-inch Barrel Velocity Test
  6. 09:3712.5-inch Barrel Velocity Test
  7. 11:0562-Grain Ammunition Comparison
  8. 13:30Data Analysis: Velocity Gains Explained
  9. 15:14Conclusion: Optimal Barrel Length Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best barrel length for an AR-15 pistol?

The best AR-15 pistol barrel length is subjective, but data suggests 11.5" or 12.5" offer the best velocity for general use. A 7.5" barrel is viable for extreme CQB, while 10.5" shows significant velocity gains over shorter options.

How does barrel length affect AR-15 pistol velocity?

Longer barrels generally increase muzzle velocity due to more time for powder to burn and propellant gases to expand. Testing shows the largest jump from 7.5" to 10.5", with smaller gains for each additional inch thereafter.

What ammunition was used to test AR-15 pistol barrel lengths?

The testing utilized both 55-grain and 62-grain ammunition, specifically mentioning 5.56 NATO / .223 Remington calibers. This allowed for comparison of performance with different bullet weights across various barrel lengths.

Which AR-15 pistol barrel length provides the highest velocity?

Among the tested pistol configurations (7.5", 10.5", 11.5", 12.5"), the 12.5-inch barrel consistently yielded the highest average muzzle velocity, offering a good balance of power and compactness.

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