223 Rem - AR barrel heat test

Published on October 9, 2022
Duration: 7:38

This video details an experiment to determine if AR-15 barrel heat significantly degrades accuracy. The presenter tests a .223 Aero Precision upper and a BCM upper with the same ammunition load over 60 rounds each. Initial analysis suggests that while point of impact may shift, the raw group size doesn't necessarily increase with heat, contrary to initial expectations. Further testing with suppressors and different configurations is recommended.

Quick Summary

AR-15 barrel heat can impact accuracy by causing expansion and shifting harmonics, potentially leading to larger groups or altered point of impact. This video tests .223 AR uppers, finding that while point of impact may shift, raw group size doesn't always worsen with heat.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Barrel Heat Hypothesis
  2. 00:36Test Setup and Ammunition Details
  3. 00:51Load Specifics: 75gr Hornady, AR Comp
  4. 01:15Initial Results: Aero Precision vs. BCM
  5. 01:41Test Limitations: No Suppressor
  6. 02:18Analyzing Group Size Trends
  7. 02:30Point of Impact Shifts
  8. 02:56Future Testing Ideas
  9. 03:18Barrel Tuner and Torque Tuning
  10. 03:44Connecting to Previous Testing
  11. 04:14Next Steps and Viewer Suggestions

Frequently Asked Questions

Does AR-15 barrel heat affect accuracy?

Yes, AR-15 barrel heat can affect accuracy. Extended firing can cause the barrel to expand and potentially shift its harmonics, leading to larger groups or a change in point of impact. This video explores this phenomenon by testing different upper receivers under sustained fire.

How was the barrel heat test conducted?

The test involved shooting 60 rounds of the same ammunition through two different AR-15 upper receivers (Aero Precision and BCM) to observe how accuracy changed as the barrels heated up. Group sizes and point of impact shifts were meticulously recorded.

What ammunition was used in the AR-15 barrel heat test?

The test utilized a specific handloaded ammunition: 75-grain Hornady Boat Tail Hollow Point bullets, 22.9 grains of AR Comp powder, seated to 2.250 inches overall length, using Lake City brass and CCI 41 primers.

Did the Aero Precision or BCM upper perform better under heat?

Initial analysis suggested that while both uppers experienced some effects from heat, the Aero Precision upper's raw group sizes did not significantly worsen. However, point of impact shifts were observed in both, with the BCM showing a more consistent downward trend initially.

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