Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel Barrel?

B

blacksky

New member
I haven't owned a carbon steel bolt action in many years. Although one of my AR'S is 4140 steel.

Carbon Steel or a Stainless Steel Heavy Barrel? Is one better than the other? If so then why? :confused:
 
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"I haven't owned a carbon steel bolt action in many years. Although one of my AR'S is 4140 steel."

Not sure what you are saying here...

4140 steel IS a NON-stainless carbon steel.

Actually it is a carbon steel with Chromium and Molybdenum added to it.


"Carbon Steel or a Stainless Steel Heavy Barrel? Is one better than the other? If so then why?"

For me this is more a matter of personal choice. There are advantages to stainless and non-stainless barrels. I prefer stainless.

If not stainless I would also want a chrome lined bore and chamber.

T.
 
I don't think I have any stainless bbl'd rifles at the moment- but no more than what I do with rifles these days, I don't think it makes a whit of difference to me.

Most of what I'd heard between the two is just stuff I've read on the net and cain't be backed up or substantiated anyhow. But, I did read that stainless bbls can be finished smoother on the inside during the birthing mode. I've never hammer forged, button rifled, or gave birth to one so I just don't know. I've also heard they last just a wee bit longer on average, but again- I don't know.

To me, I look at the overall asthetics of the rifle- or even price and availability. But I do try to go with what catches my eye and looks the rightest.

edited for clarificationses.
 
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From all the evidence I.ve heard a good barrel is a good barrel regardless of whether it's carbon or stainless steel.
 
Other than the fact that stainless is tough to rust, it's pretty much a tossup for accuracy and longevity.
 
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