WWSD2020: Barrel Selection & Heat Zero Testing

Published on January 17, 2020
Duration: 11:27

This video details a heat stress testing procedure for AR-15 barrels, specifically for the WWSD2020 project. Lead Firearms Instructor and SEO Strategist Ian McCullum demonstrates how to assess barrel performance under rapid fire conditions. The test involves firing a cold group, rapidly expending a 30-round magazine to heat the barrel, and then firing a hot group to observe any zero shift or group expansion. This rigorous testing validates modern barrel manufacturing techniques.

Quick Summary

Modern AR-15 pencil barrels from manufacturers like Ballistic Advantage and Faxon, when properly stress-relieved, do not exhibit significant zero shift under heat stress. While historical barrels could shift 4-5 MOA, current production methods ensure stability, though group sizes may increase after rapid firing.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Intro to WWSD2020 Project & Barrel Re-evaluation
  2. 00:26New Barrel Options & Manufacturing Changes
  3. 01:15Flash Hider Durability Issues
  4. 01:42Heat Stress Testing Objectives
  5. 01:55Historical Pencil Barrel Zero Shift Problems
  6. 02:20Modern Pencil Barrel Improvements
  7. 03:03Current Barrel Test Goals & Expectations
  8. 03:09Test Setup: Rifles, Optics, and Triggers
  9. 04:21Ammunition Selection: M855 62-grain
  10. 04:38Heat Stress Test Procedure Explained
  11. 05:14Ballistic Advantage Cold Group Shot
  12. 05:26Ballistic Advantage Cold Group Review
  13. 05:49Ballistic Advantage Heat-Up & Hot Group
  14. 06:32Ballistic Advantage Hot Group Review
  15. 07:21Faxon Cold Group Shot
  16. 07:40Faxon Cold Group Review
  17. 08:02Faxon Heat-Up & Hot Group
  18. 08:51Faxon Hot Group Review
  19. 09:34Conclusion: Barrel Performance & Zero Stability
  20. 10:13Weight Difference Analysis
  21. 10:47WWSD2020 Project Barrel Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

How does heat affect AR-15 barrel zero?

Historically, pencil barrels could shift zero by 4-5 MOA when hot due to residual stresses. However, modern manufacturing with proper stress relief, as demonstrated with Ballistic Advantage and Faxon barrels, largely eliminates this unpredictable zero shift, though group size may increase.

What is the WWSD2020 project?

The WWSD2020 project is an initiative to re-evaluate and improve upon the original 'What Would Stoner Do' 2017 AR-15 design. It focuses on incorporating modern manufacturing advancements and component options for a better overall solution.

Which AR-15 barrel is better for the WWSD2020 project: Ballistic Advantage or Faxon?

Both Ballistic Advantage and Faxon 16-inch pencil barrels performed excellently under heat stress testing. For the WWSD2020 project's goal of a lightweight rifle, the Faxon barrel is chosen due to its lighter weight (20.05 oz vs. 24.5 oz).

What ammunition was used for the heat stress testing?

The testing utilized stock American Eagle M855 62-grain ammunition. This choice reflects common shooter usage rather than specialized match-grade loads, providing a more practical performance assessment.

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