Return to Frequently Asked Questions?
Questions on how to install your new BA barrel?
What is the difference between Modern, Performance, and Premium Series Barrels?
Modern Series Barrels
Machined from CrMoV Steel and feature a QPQ corrosion resistant finish and QPQ coated M4 feed ramp extension.
Watch a video about our Modern Series AR barrel:
Performance Series Barrels
Machined from CrMoV Steel and feature a QPQ corrosion resistant finish and a nickel boron coated M4 feed ramp extension.
Watch a video about our Performance Series AR barrel:
Premium Series Barrels
Machined from 416R Stainless Steel and feature a bead blasted finish and nickel boron coated M4 feed ramp extension.
Watch a video about our Premium Series AR barrel:
What materials are your barrels manufactured from?
- We offer CrMoV steel with a QPQ melonite finish or 416R Stainless steel.
What is QPQ?
- QPQ treats the existing steel with a surface diffusion nitrogen process within the steel itself. This is done through a liquid salt-bath process. The process greatly hardens the steel. The QPQ treatment does not add any materials to the bore, rather it treats the bore as it comes from the factory. Like Chrome lining, the treatment greatly increases corrosion and wear-resistance. However, one advantage of QPQ, the process treats both the inside and the outside of the barrel.
QPQ Advantages:
- Retains the base accuracy of the bore prior to any treatment.
- Incredible hardness
- Better corrosion resistance
- Less expensive than Chrome Lining and Phosphate.
Can I shoot a .223 round out of a 5.56 NATO barrel?
- Yes, you can with no worries but, you cannot shoot a 5.56 round out of a .223 Rem due to clearances in the round and the bore.
What twist rate is available on your barrels?
We offer a variety of twist rates. Depending on the caliber you'll see:
- 5.56 Nato 1/7 Twist
- .223 Wylde 1/8 Twist
- .300 Blackout 1/7 Twist
- 9MM 1/10 Twist
- 6.5 Creedmoor 1/8 Twist
- .308 Win 1/10 Twist
What is the difference between Pistol, Carbine, Mid, and Rifle length barrels?
- This is a length that refers to the gas system on your AR 15. Starting with Pistol the shortest, it measures 3.75 inches. Next, is Carbine at 6.75 inches, Midlength measuring 8.75 inches, and finally, Rifle that is either 11.35 inches or 12.15 inches depending on the caliber.
Will Ballistic Advantage cut and rethread my barrel to a custom length?
- This service is not available but, we do entertain custom barrel orders in lot runs of 400 or more.