I have a 20" BSF carbon fiber wrapped barrel on my 6.5 Grendel AR15 and have a Springfield 2020 Waypoint that has a 22" carbon fiber wrapped barrel made by BSF also from my understandin and freaking love them. They shoot really good as long as I don't heat them up then they start stringing shots pretty bad. (by that I mean they open from .5 to 1 moa to 1.5 to 2 moa at 100 yards at max) I agree carbon fiber barrels have a place but you gotta know their limitations. These rifles I have are very purpose driven the whole reason I went with them is to save as much weight as I could on hunting rifles that only time they get even remotely warm is when I'm plinking to stay sharp. Love the video brother I think you were 100% on point with everything!!!
I built a .308 AR using a 20" BSF. I can't speak yet to exactly how well it does, I'm still sorting it out some. But so far so good and I really like the design concept of the BSF. That they put the barrel in tension by compressing the carbon fiber makes a lot of sense to me.
@@snek9353 yeah they really put a good bit of thought into them and what sold me on them is they flute the barrel instead of just turning it down to a pencil barrel and wrapping it. They really shoot good and as long as you're not doing a lot of shooting so they heat up they'll hold a really tight group but even when they heat up it's still not that bad unless you're shooting long range... 150 yards and in I wouldn't worry about it because it's still a 2moa gun and that's ethically huntable in my opinion...
@@DanielBoone337 Well I certainly hope I can do better than that. I'm looking to push the limits of a light for what it is .308 AR. I put a 30x scope and a lot of money in this sucker, don't want to be disappointed. Guess I'll find out.
Light is the key word. Bought my 28 Nosler as a CF for backpack hunting. Light also comes with recoil. To counter an aluminum aircraft break is the answer.
Having owned many Proof Research barrels and used them for long range frequently, I can tell you they bleed off heat quicker than traditional steel barrels of the same profile but are less inherently rigid and accurate. For the weight savings for any gun you intend to do stuff with and the heat advantage, they are worth the money. Other companies do much inferior wrap protocols that at times can actually insulate the barrel and make the problem worse.
Proof makes all steel barrels. In fact they take their all steel barrels and turn them down to have space to wrap them in carbon fiber. How are you documenting the rate at which they can cool between a proof all steel barrel and a Proof carbon wrapped steel barrel of like profiles? Details please. Oh or is this like butt dyno results that are 100% subjective and based on emotions and time and money invested?
Thanks Mark! Great analysis of the form follows function aspect of rifle barrels. You have a great gift for presenting complex technical information in a clear, concise and cogent way, making it understandable to lay and expert alike. Cheers Mate and cheers to Sam as well.
I took a metallurgy course when I was in school for tool & die & design . For our training it was more to do with the straight & durability of different metals and the heat process to harden the metal for a specific and repeat task in stamping , bending and punching parts to complete a finished product . With metal barrels in hunting or target applications heat plays a big roll in accuracy as the metal expands thereby reducing the riflings ability to keep the same pressures on the projectiles in both spin and also gas pressure deviations altering the bullets flight characteristics. This affects consistent accuracy and why a heavy barrel might be used , harmonics is another factor we must deal with . Knowing what you want & what you need for the type of shooting and accuracy required will play a big roll on what you buy . Interesting concept with carbon fiber and you touched on a number of valid points as to its effectiveness in weight savings and heat transfer effectiveness, a characteristics offset by using glue which is an insulator .
I had one on my Acccuracy International AT. It was a proof research pre-fit in 6.5 creedmoor. The 308 lothar barrel it came with originally was more accurate. In my opinion the carbon fibre actually insulates the barrel, as in firing strings of fire (10-15 shots in quick succession) the barrel is cool to the touch but after 5 minutes or so the heat has finally soaked through and the barrel is as hot as a normal steel barrel. I agree with Mark in this video, they have their place where utmost accuracy can be sacrificed for lighter weight and portability. Hunting rifles are a good example of this, but I'd never put on on my precision rifle again.
A lot like engine building every aspect is a compromise and you have to keep in mind the ultimate goal I always enjoy everything you share - Thanks Mark and Sam 😉🦘
My only experience is the Volquartson 12.5" .22lr carbon tensioned barrel I have. All can say is it's very accurate even on a 10/22. After 5+ years it still shoots well.
I'm interesting to see the heat dissipation explored, I wish I had two similar profile barrels in the same chambering, that I could measure the temperature curve of them cooling INTERNALLY after firing the same load (say 2x 6.5 CM barrels at 24" and Sendero profile, fire 1 round and measure the temperature curve of the cooling over 60 seconds from 15 seconds after firing. I have the equipment to measure but not the barrels. The thermal properties are the only part of the equation that I haven't seen really explored, and I'm surprised because it wouldn't be that hard to do - clearly different barrel makers have different process/carbon/adhesive etc, but I think it would at least prove that the barrels aren't holding heat like crazy
Well you would want too Proof barrels one in all steel and one in carbon wrap. You would want the same profile since you can not match mass of the two. You would then have to fire how ever many shots it took to get each barrel up to the same temp. or blow hot air through them to get them up to temp. You would want to see how many rounds fired at same rate it took to achieve the same temp. and how long it took to cool off to room temp. or ambient outside temp if done outside. If blowing hot air through them them then how many minutes and seconds to get to the desired temp and how long to cool off. How much energy it takes to heat them to the same temp is just as important as how quickly they cool off. Carbon fiber is a great material to work with and it can allow us to do some amazing things. In this application though the use of carbon fiber is the opposite of best practice or wise! It is truly at best a means of milking the customer for novelty that is not at all needed. Kind of like carbon fiber under garments, carbon fiber toaster, carbon fiber wrenches, carbon fiber hammer, carbon fiber wrapped drill bits! I remember when Titanium was all the rage. Not a single engineering study has demonstrated that removing material from a barrel blank and replacing that material with carbon fiber makes for a barrel that is more accurate, more consistent, long lasting, or any other metric of quality in a center fire rifle barrel. They are lighter for sure but that is because of all the missing metal.
I wholeheartedly agree with your assessment. If one wants a light barrel, buy a non-CF barrel from from a GOOD manufacturer that has been properly stress relieved, lapped, and air gauged. Proper stress relief will help prevent the "walking" zero. Barrel diameters need to go up as shot-string length go up. Even shooting long range, if you are willing to rest your barrel to keep heat down light varmint profiles, heavy sporter profiles, etc. can make great hits (especially initial volleys) if it came out of a good barrel shop. Many people confuse the reasons why you would need a truck axle barrel. Shots÷Time=Girth.
I've heard the carbon fiber barrels are very good with cold bore shots but under sustained fire where heat builds up, groups start opening up. I would think that for a strictly hunting rifle that carbon fiber barrels would be the cat's meow. But for competition or tactical applications it would not be suitable. This was a great breakdown on carbon fiber and everything you said makes complete sense and reinforces everything I thought about these barrels.
I laughed when you put the barrel down so you could talk properly. Somewhere in your ancestory there might be some Italian blood. Something about mediterranean arms movements and aussie accent is genius. Love all your videos, Australia is my 2nd favorite country to visit right after NZ.
Have always wondered about them now I have a better understanding of what the in and outs of the working of a fiber barrow . Great video !! Have a great day!!!
@@markandsamafterwork your welcome always like how you explain things and how it can be good or bad depending on what type of shooting you’re doing.and the experience of shooting with all types of rifle in different application not just one!!! You give the in’s and out and what works for you.
Any particular goals always are going to determine constraints for different components and configurations. Maybe a goal is ultra light. One of the first considerations is going to be finding an answer to 'Ultralight compared to what?'. Similarly, what accuracy is desired, are there any no compromise needs, what durability is desired. Threw together an ultra light rifle last year after a year of component research and ended up with something I like a lot. I like it because the rifle fulfills the goals I had in mind. Friend of mine picked up a proof research barrel and it performs great. Component shortages partially determined his buying the barrel, but he's quite happy and I can understand why after shooting his build. Compared to his other heavy profile barrel rifles, the carbon fiber barrel build balances much better for off hand shooting.
Good info, I shoot a Christensen Arms carbon barrel in competition F-PR class, and find it very good, although.. it's good because I can use the rifle for multiple things like PRS and hunting applications. I think a lot of the attraction is that they look good also, which is purely emotive but a huge factor for many people. I also very much enjoy shooting very short barrel 308s in the 12 inch range which solves a similar weight/balance issue. Both have their place.
I just bought a Proof Research 18" 6mm ARC. The reason I went with the carbon fiber was to reduce weight. That's it's. This is a rifle I will be carrying around long distances.
So some back-history I guess that I never hear mentioned. Proof research’s wrapping method is that of what was once ABS barrels. If I remember correctly “proof” was a merger between a boutique rifle manufacturer and ABS or something to that effect (remembering photos being used during proof’s infancy were identical to the boutique in question). This would be well over a decade ago. Originally, you would order a barrel blank from a list of manufacturers (Saturn, Bartlein, Lothar Walther, etc) and they had would pre-turn to the “ABS” contour. You would then send the blank off to ABS and wait for the completed barrel. Hence why some people like myself have Lilja 3 groove and some 5r polygonal carbon wrapped barrels where as now you’re strictly using proof research’s blanks. While proof does make a good product, I feel they’ve lost a bit in going mainstream for mass production. Much the reason why they’ve removed so many options even with their in-house blanks.
Carbon barrels are great for hunting. The Christensen and Proof guns I've handled at the shop all have great balance to them and are very handy rifles. With a scope on them it bring the center of gravity back even more and makes them very quick and easy handling. A friend of mine used a Proof barrel for an AR build he did. A nice, light rifle and a carbon barrel is perfect for an AR project. He ends up with a heavy profile barrel that is only a few ounces heavier than my Faxon pencil barrel of the same length. He did pay 4 times what I paid for that marginal weight savings, however.
I like your video and points,, I own two carbon barrels a volquartsen and a proof research and I love both of them ,,, I’ve had both shoulders torn up several times and I am 65 so the lighter barrels are welcome in my hunting because of bad shoulders. The price difference is worth it to me but I can see where it would not be for all.
I am having my Remington .300 WM fitted with a Bartlein carbon fiber barrel to hunt with out west and for an Alaskan hunt next year. My gunsmith is doing all the work and he has built some rifles that has won some national matches. Can't wait to get it back to see what it can do.
I think the most important think to know about a good carbon fiber wrapped barrel profile is that it is never stiffer than the same barrel profile made entirely of steel but because of the weight difference, the resonant frequency can be a lot higher (which is good). I have a Proof carbon wrapped barrel (28" Savage pre-fit 6.5 Creedmoor) and it is pretty good. I have heard of much less favorable results from other brands. I can't speak to those results but be careful if you are buying a carbon wrapped barrel with particular results in mind. My rifle is set up with a system that makes barrel changes easy but I don't think carbon fiber is particularly suited to switch barrel rifles except that you might be able to carry 5 barrels instead of 3 plain steel for the same weight. I will rarely use the ability to easily change barrels, probably mostly when I'm retiring a barrel due to round count or inaccuracy.
Interesting information. I was seriously thinking about a CF barrel for hunting, but after watching this and the Hornady Podcast on barrels I don't think I'm going to fall for the hype and simply carry a good light contoured steel barrel.
My gut thoughts after listening to this chat would be, chasing accuracy in a rifle is often chasing harmonic nodes. The stiffer something is, the higher the frequency of those harmonics. The higher the frequency, the harder it is to reliably land on the same ‘node’ within the wave form. Potentially a carbon barrel could a be better shooter, but it would be a lot more finicky and temperamental. Just a thought and my 2 cents. Edit... this is just my completely uneducated 2 cents if it wasn’t apparent.
I would also think that with the higher frequency would come lower amplitude. The nodes may be really close together and hard to nail down but the reduced amplitude minimizes impact shifts when optimum barrel timing isn’t reached. I have nothing to back this up, just intuition. Maybe someone who actually studies these things can chime in!
formulajoe2 I would tend to agree I guess the ultimate example would be a structured barrel, I’m sure they have a harmonic frequency in some range but the amplitude would be so low due to rigidity.
Thank you for your great Viedo. I appreciate your insights and knowledge that you have passed on to me. I am planning a new rifle build, and have considered using a Carbonfiber Barrel. I am still evaluating the pro's and con's of this option.
I'm getting ready to finish my AR-15 build with a Proof Research Carburetor Fiber Barrel in 18". My thought was less heat from a smaller caliber should balance out the weight savings and carbon fiber composition concerns. It also is a balance in testing it versus cost on a smaller caliber rifle. I'd hate to spend a lot more on a higher heat producing platform and find I have to now spend as much or more on a Krieger or Bartlien barrel.
Great video guys! You mean carbon wrap is not the latest and greatest unicorn to fit to your rifle??!! Just jokes. While carbon barrels make up for 30% of what we use, it should only be used where appropriate in a build spec. In this instance it can provide real benifits and value, used the in wrong way it's a waste of money and can even detract from the system. Really informative and considered approach to this topic guys! 👌
My thought of using the carbon fiber barrel was WT balance for suppressor use on a field rifle. Glass, action stock, with a suppressor, my hope was to limit POI shift and still be packable. But seems like anything you will have to try it and see how it works. Sometimes your education is expensive other times you can learn from others. Try a friends.
Carbon barrels are great if u don't get em hott. Will get point of impact shift every time if u heat em up. There good for cold bore up to bout 4 shots then they need to cool. Or impact shift is drastic
DOPE = Data Of Previous Engagement, beyond that we have several videos that show how to get onto target using ballistic apps, will do some more in the future, Cheers
i've always been intrigued by carbon fiber barrels. btw before buying i'll wait for more feedback. i like the proof way of wrapping an uneven matrix of carbon....but i want a 5r rifling, so i' m very interested in the newer bartlein carbon barrels. hope to see some test in the future
X-caliber makes a 5R wrapped barrel I've already heard negative about the Bartlin being heavier than the rest and rifling deformity and another good one is carbon six barrel company
In discussing the processes by which carbon fiber is applied to the barrel, you didn’t mention using a pre cured sleeve and installing it over the barrel under mechanical tension as is done by BSF. I’m wondering what you might think of their approach and the effects on tensioning the barrel to maintain straightness. Do you feel different about their approach for a bolt action barrel vs their gas gun barrel with the interruption for the gas port? I’ve been looking at a BSF carbon fiber sleeved barrel for the purpose of getting a longer barrel / more muzzle velocity on an AR-10 without making it any heavier than it already is. I use this rifle for prs style competitions and it is already a heavy beast to move.
Lots of ways to skin that cat, really there are already good options and there will be more, just needs to be considered in the complete build....as said, Cheers
This I think it's where the real benefit is. When you need to be portable and are not just shooting off a rest or bipod. Offhand shooting weight is a big factor. Mark is spot on.
Thanks for the knowledge Mark. What I'm curious about is the durability if you knick the CF. I've got a friend who is a serious cyclist and if you damage the weave on a CF bike frame almost no one will touch it to try to fix it.
Well all in the details, but, barrels and bikes CF is in application very different, a nick/scratch, can be a big issue on a CF bike frame, not some much on a barrel, Cheers
The carbon fiber barrels sure look cool and that is really half of what we do but... the cost vs. everything else hasn't been worth the change to me. Thanks for the video and insight Mark. Cheers!
So, what it sounds like from this presentation (awesome BTW) the gist of a carbon fiber barrel is that depending on the caliber, it may not be appropriate. For example, a 7mm or 300 Win Mag, would have a significant recoil because it is more lightweight, and in a practical sense, then, it wouldn’t be great for accuracy, per se?
I have a Bergara B-14 22lr carbon fibre barrel in a Cadex stock. I wish I had never bought it, the barrel that is. On hot days the barrel heats right up and my groups double in size. The cost for a carbon fibre was not much more than a steel barrel but now I wish I would have saved that $100.00. I will admit one thing though it sure is pretty !
ive been tempted to get a carbon fiber barrel for longer distance hiking/ hunting walks but im not even sure on the price of them or main advantage other than weight savings thanks for clearing some stuff up , from my understanding the glue heats up pretty fast so you have to let the barrel cool off after a couple of shots ?
Have you not heard of a pencil barrel normally a No.1 profile. A lot of weight in in the stock, rings, bottom metal, and optic. If your going to put some huge NightForce optic on with steel ring, bases and bottom metal than carbon fiber barrel is the least of your worries. Weight reduction is an all or nothing sort of thing when done correctly. Take a look at the New Ultra Light Arms and how they approach it. I read once that the stock only weights 3oz. I have to assume that is a typo but that what the article said.
Hi mark, awesome review bud. I’m about to build a hunting rifle using a defiance Anti X action. I’m so hard pressed and driving me nuts on what barrel to use. I have narrowed it down to 2 barrels. Proof Carbon Fiber 26” that weighs 3.3lbs or a Stainless Bench Mark 26” that weighs 3.42 lbs in counter #4. However, I would be getting the barrel fluted upon order so it should match exactly same weight as the proof or maybe tad less. Out of the 2 choices for hunting with 300wm would you choose? Looking for accuracy and weight seems to be pretty close. Looking forward to your insight as I’m dying to order one but can’t make up my mind. CF is cool looking but also heard a lot of reviews guy falls and chipped it. Steel I’ve never heard such a thing.
For me it was in the AR-15 platform I could get a Bull profile 20 inch barrel for the weight of a 16 inch A2 profile. I myself am curious if the stress relief of the barrel was done after the milling. Not to mention is the carbon fiber under tension?
Any thoughts on the tensioned Voquartsen 10/22 barrels that use a carbon fiber outer sleeve? I realize that's not what you are discussing in this video because there isn't barrel to outer sleeve contact (I don't think). Seems like I remember you doing a tensioned barrel.
I have one and it's very accurate. I use it for shooting offhand .22 precision competitions. Shoots better than you can hold it. It will quite happily put everything in the 10 if you do your bit.
For myself, the more I see and read about carbon fiber bbl's, the less I really want one, they do have thir quirks, which I don't need to deal with. Great product, useful in zillions of apps, but. not convinced about bbl's.
Id just as soon on a hunting rifle have a slim contour SS barrel with a tuner brake on it and be actualky lighter weight and just as accurate if not more accurate . CF has also shown to be harder to tune a load for in my circle of shooting friends .
Had a friend purchase a carbon fibre barrel mostly for its exclusivity. He spent many hundreds to get it to shoot. He even added weight to the front of the stock. He eventually got it to shoot as good as my $35 stock barrel though!
I could listen to you talk all day. There's a lot of common sense in your. Thank you.
Cheers Rick
Great video, most conversations on forums seem to get hung up on the concept and never actually talk about the differences.
Thanks Man, cheers
I have no idea about carbon fiber barrels. So good informations. Thank you my friend. Chears
Cheers Walter, thanks
seems like very time i sit down at the bench to load there's a new episode of Mark's Monologue! it's a good day, indeed.
Thanks Dakota, Cheers man, all the best.
The Best Layman's explanation I've ever heard. Great vid sir.
Thanks Matt, Cheers
I have a 20" BSF carbon fiber wrapped barrel on my 6.5 Grendel AR15 and have a Springfield 2020 Waypoint that has a 22" carbon fiber wrapped barrel made by BSF also from my understandin and freaking love them. They shoot really good as long as I don't heat them up then they start stringing shots pretty bad. (by that I mean they open from .5 to 1 moa to 1.5 to 2 moa at 100 yards at max) I agree carbon fiber barrels have a place but you gotta know their limitations. These rifles I have are very purpose driven the whole reason I went with them is to save as much weight as I could on hunting rifles that only time they get even remotely warm is when I'm plinking to stay sharp. Love the video brother I think you were 100% on point with everything!!!
Thanks Daniel, glad you liked, Cheers
Love the 6.5 Grendel, I built a 6mm ARC last year to deer hunt with and I like it just as much.
I built a .308 AR using a 20" BSF. I can't speak yet to exactly how well it does, I'm still sorting it out some. But so far so good and I really like the design concept of the BSF. That they put the barrel in tension by compressing the carbon fiber makes a lot of sense to me.
@@snek9353 yeah they really put a good bit of thought into them and what sold me on them is they flute the barrel instead of just turning it down to a pencil barrel and wrapping it. They really shoot good and as long as you're not doing a lot of shooting so they heat up they'll hold a really tight group but even when they heat up it's still not that bad unless you're shooting long range... 150 yards and in I wouldn't worry about it because it's still a 2moa gun and that's ethically huntable in my opinion...
@@DanielBoone337 Well I certainly hope I can do better than that. I'm looking to push the limits of a light for what it is .308 AR. I put a 30x scope and a lot of money in this sucker, don't want to be disappointed. Guess I'll find out.
Light is the key word. Bought my 28 Nosler as a CF for backpack hunting. Light also comes with recoil. To counter an aluminum aircraft break is the answer.
Awesome, Cheers
Having owned many Proof Research barrels and used them for long range frequently, I can tell you they bleed off heat quicker than traditional steel barrels of the same profile but are less inherently rigid and accurate. For the weight savings for any gun you intend to do stuff with and the heat advantage, they are worth the money. Other companies do much inferior wrap protocols that at times can actually insulate the barrel and make the problem worse.
Thanks for that Jessie, cheers
Proof makes all steel barrels. In fact they take their all steel barrels and turn them down to have space to wrap them in carbon fiber.
How are you documenting the rate at which they can cool between a proof all steel barrel and a Proof carbon wrapped steel barrel of like profiles?
Details please. Oh or is this like butt dyno results that are 100% subjective and based on emotions and time and money invested?
Interesting video. The interface between steel and carbon always intrigued me do to the differences in stretch and harmonics. Thanks for the input.
Thanks Tim
Thanks for the mention! we did invent the carbon fiber barrel in 1995!
Awesome, Cheers and all the best for 2023
Thanks Mark! Great analysis of the form follows function aspect of rifle barrels. You have a great gift for presenting complex technical information in a clear, concise and cogent way, making it understandable to lay and expert alike. Cheers Mate and cheers to Sam as well.
Thanks Rev, sure try to break it down to where most can get, glad you like, Cheers
I took a metallurgy course when I was in school for tool & die & design . For our training it was more to do with the straight & durability of different metals and the heat process to harden the metal for a specific and repeat task in stamping , bending and punching parts to complete a finished product .
With metal barrels in hunting or target applications heat plays a big roll in accuracy as the metal expands thereby reducing the riflings ability to keep the same pressures on the projectiles in both spin and also gas pressure deviations altering the bullets flight characteristics. This affects consistent accuracy and why a heavy barrel might be used , harmonics is another factor we must deal with .
Knowing what you want & what you need for the type of shooting and accuracy required will play a big roll on what you buy .
Interesting concept with carbon fiber and you touched on a number of valid points as to its effectiveness in weight savings and heat transfer effectiveness, a characteristics offset by using glue which is an insulator .
Cheers
I had one on my Acccuracy International AT. It was a proof research pre-fit in 6.5 creedmoor. The 308 lothar barrel it came with originally was more accurate. In my opinion the carbon fibre actually insulates the barrel, as in firing strings of fire (10-15 shots in quick succession) the barrel is cool to the touch but after 5 minutes or so the heat has finally soaked through and the barrel is as hot as a normal steel barrel.
I agree with Mark in this video, they have their place where utmost accuracy can be sacrificed for lighter weight and portability. Hunting rifles are a good example of this, but I'd never put on on my precision rifle again.
Thanks Bruce, same page, still good but have a place, like most things, lol, Cheers
the same with airguns composite bottles , u cant fill them quickly because hot air messes up your tunes
I'll be the first I guess to say it as I commented..........cf is bs.....lol
A lot like engine building every aspect is a compromise and you have to keep in mind the ultimate goal
I always enjoy everything you share - Thanks Mark and Sam 😉🦘
Yep, Cheers
@@markandsamafterwork You are man of many words Mark 🤣 Thanks for the reply 😉🦘
I think like you talk, great explanation Mark, very well interpolated and delivered 👍
Cheers Linus, thanks man
@@markandsamafterwork one day me and the squad will get over there 🙏
One of the best real life videos on carbon fiber barrels Ive ever seen
Cheers
Thanks for the pro and con of carbon barrels in different applications
Glad you liked James. Cheers
My only experience is the Volquartson 12.5" .22lr carbon tensioned barrel I have. All can say is it's very accurate even on a 10/22. After 5+ years it still shoots well.
Cheers
I'm interesting to see the heat dissipation explored, I wish I had two similar profile barrels in the same chambering, that I could measure the temperature curve of them cooling INTERNALLY after firing the same load (say 2x 6.5 CM barrels at 24" and Sendero profile, fire 1 round and measure the temperature curve of the cooling over 60 seconds from 15 seconds after firing. I have the equipment to measure but not the barrels.
The thermal properties are the only part of the equation that I haven't seen really explored, and I'm surprised because it wouldn't be that hard to do - clearly different barrel makers have different process/carbon/adhesive etc, but I think it would at least prove that the barrels aren't holding heat like crazy
Cheers
Well you would want too Proof barrels one in all steel and one in carbon wrap. You would want the same profile since you can not match mass of the two. You would then have to fire how ever many shots it took to get each barrel up to the same temp. or blow hot air through them to get them up to temp. You would want to see how many rounds fired at same rate it took to achieve the same temp. and how long it took to cool off to room temp. or ambient outside temp if done outside. If blowing hot air through them them then how many minutes and seconds to get to the desired temp and how long to cool off.
How much energy it takes to heat them to the same temp is just as important as how quickly they cool off.
Carbon fiber is a great material to work with and it can allow us to do some amazing things. In this application though the use of carbon fiber is the opposite of best practice or wise! It is truly at best a means of milking the customer for novelty that is not at all needed. Kind of like carbon fiber under garments, carbon fiber toaster, carbon fiber wrenches, carbon fiber hammer, carbon fiber wrapped drill bits! I remember when Titanium was all the rage.
Not a single engineering study has demonstrated that removing material from a barrel blank and replacing that material with carbon fiber makes for a barrel that is more accurate, more consistent, long lasting, or any other metric of quality in a center fire rifle barrel. They are lighter for sure but that is because of all the missing metal.
@@buckaroobonsi555 thanks mate, excellent post
I wholeheartedly agree with your assessment. If one wants a light barrel, buy a non-CF barrel from from a GOOD manufacturer that has been properly stress relieved, lapped, and air gauged. Proper stress relief will help prevent the "walking" zero. Barrel diameters need to go up as shot-string length go up. Even shooting long range, if you are willing to rest your barrel to keep heat down light varmint profiles, heavy sporter profiles, etc. can make great hits (especially initial volleys) if it came out of a good barrel shop. Many people confuse the reasons why you would need a truck axle barrel. Shots÷Time=Girth.
Thanks Matt, all the best, Cheers
I've heard the carbon fiber barrels are very good with cold bore shots but under sustained fire where heat builds up, groups start opening up. I would think that for a strictly hunting rifle that carbon fiber barrels would be the cat's meow. But for competition or tactical applications it would not be suitable. This was a great breakdown on carbon fiber and everything you said makes complete sense and reinforces everything I thought about these barrels.
Thanks Man, Cheers
I laughed when you put the barrel down so you could talk properly. Somewhere in your ancestory there might be some Italian blood. Something about mediterranean arms movements and aussie accent is genius. Love all your videos, Australia is my 2nd favorite country to visit right after NZ.
Lol, cheers Man, thanks
Have always wondered about them now I have a better understanding of what the in and outs of the working of a fiber barrow . Great video !! Have a great day!!!
Cheers Tim, thanks
@@markandsamafterwork your welcome always like how you explain things and how it can be good or bad depending on what type of shooting you’re doing.and the experience of shooting with all types of rifle in different application not just one!!! You give the in’s and out and what works for you.
Good thing I bump into this mark…. Great info, makes me think twice now about getting a carbon barrel, sticking to my stainless ones for now
Cheers Man
Excellent well presented video with information that only a firearm expert/mechanic could explain.
Thanks Collin, cheers
Thanks Mark! Great video. Excellent point of view.
Cheers Rick, thanks
Any particular goals always are going to determine constraints for different components and configurations. Maybe a goal is ultra light. One of the first considerations is going to be finding an answer to 'Ultralight compared to what?'. Similarly, what accuracy is desired, are there any no compromise needs, what durability is desired. Threw together an ultra light rifle last year after a year of component research and ended up with something I like a lot. I like it because the rifle fulfills the goals I had in mind.
Friend of mine picked up a proof research barrel and it performs great. Component shortages partially determined his buying the barrel, but he's quite happy and I can understand why after shooting his build. Compared to his other heavy profile barrel rifles, the carbon fiber barrel build balances much better for off hand shooting.
Yep, Cheers
I don't own 1 yet. Still into steel. Great info. Thanks Mark
Cheers
Good info, I shoot a Christensen Arms carbon barrel in competition F-PR class, and find it very good, although.. it's good because I can use the rifle for multiple things like PRS and hunting applications. I think a lot of the attraction is that they look good also, which is purely emotive but a huge factor for many people. I also very much enjoy shooting very short barrel 308s in the 12 inch range which solves a similar weight/balance issue. Both have their place.
Cheers
I just bought a Proof Research 18" 6mm ARC. The reason I went with the carbon fiber was to reduce weight. That's it's. This is a rifle I will be carrying around long distances.
Perfect, Cheers
So some back-history I guess that I never hear mentioned.
Proof research’s wrapping method is that of what was once ABS barrels. If I remember correctly “proof” was a merger between a boutique rifle manufacturer and ABS or something to that effect (remembering photos being used during proof’s infancy were identical to the boutique in question). This would be well over a decade ago.
Originally, you would order a barrel blank from a list of manufacturers (Saturn, Bartlein, Lothar Walther, etc) and they had would pre-turn to the “ABS” contour. You would then send the blank off to ABS and wait for the completed barrel. Hence why some people like myself have Lilja 3 groove and some 5r polygonal carbon wrapped barrels where as now you’re strictly using proof research’s blanks.
While proof does make a good product, I feel they’ve lost a bit in going mainstream for mass production. Much the reason why they’ve removed so many options even with their in-house blanks.
And if I forgot anything, absolutely feel free to correct or add in. I just thought I’d share that piece of info that seems lost
Thanks Jay, all the best, cheers
I cant wait for the carbon fiber structured fluted barrels
Lol, cheers
BSF barrels
I can't wait for carbon fiber engine blocks. Lol
Informative video for both amateurs and professionals alike
Thanks Lucy, Cheers
Carbon barrels are great for hunting. The Christensen and Proof guns I've handled at the shop all have great balance to them and are very handy rifles. With a scope on them it bring the center of gravity back even more and makes them very quick and easy handling.
A friend of mine used a Proof barrel for an AR build he did. A nice, light rifle and a carbon barrel is perfect for an AR project. He ends up with a heavy profile barrel that is only a few ounces heavier than my Faxon pencil barrel of the same length. He did pay 4 times what I paid for that marginal weight savings, however.
Agreed, Cheers
Thank you, Nice to have a pro level shooters perspective!
Cheers
Great contents as always.
Thanks from Italy.
Cheers
I like your video and points,, I own two carbon barrels a volquartsen and a proof research and I love both of them ,,, I’ve had both shoulders torn up several times and I am 65 so the lighter barrels are welcome in my hunting because of bad shoulders.
The price difference is worth it to me but I can see where it would not be for all.
agreed, thanks Bobby, cheers
I am having my Remington .300 WM fitted with a Bartlein carbon fiber barrel to hunt with out west and for an Alaskan hunt next year. My gunsmith is doing all the work and he has built some rifles that has won some national matches. Can't wait to get it back to see what it can do.
Awesome, Cheers
Thanks Mark !
My Christensen MPR , 6.5 Creedmoor 22" works great so far.
Cheers
Awesome information as always Mark love your channel 👍
Cheers Man, thanks
Great content Mark. Love your channel, thanks
Thanks Man, Cheers
I think the most important think to know about a good carbon fiber wrapped barrel profile is that it is never stiffer than the same barrel profile made entirely of steel but because of the weight difference, the resonant frequency can be a lot higher (which is good).
I have a Proof carbon wrapped barrel (28" Savage pre-fit 6.5 Creedmoor) and it is pretty good. I have heard of much less favorable results from other brands. I can't speak to those results but be careful if you are buying a carbon wrapped barrel with particular results in mind.
My rifle is set up with a system that makes barrel changes easy but I don't think carbon fiber is particularly suited to switch barrel rifles except that you might be able to carry 5 barrels instead of 3 plain steel for the same weight. I will rarely use the ability to easily change barrels, probably mostly when I'm retiring a barrel due to round count or inaccuracy.
Agreed, Cheers Joe, thanks
thank you MARK excellent review as always
Cheers Jane, thanks
excellent job sir! well done and open minded critique with caveats!
Cheers
I always appreciate your insights.
Cheers Steve, thanks
Great explanation Mark. I too like the heavy truck axle 1.250 zero taper profile barrels. As I prefer long-range benchrest type shooting myself. 😊
Thanks John
Interesting information. I was seriously thinking about a CF barrel for hunting, but after watching this and the Hornady Podcast on barrels I don't think I'm going to fall for the hype and simply carry a good light contoured steel barrel.
Cheers
My gut thoughts after listening to this chat would be, chasing accuracy in a rifle is often chasing harmonic nodes. The stiffer something is, the higher the frequency of those harmonics. The higher the frequency, the harder it is to reliably land on the same ‘node’ within the wave form. Potentially a carbon barrel could a be better shooter, but it would be a lot more finicky and temperamental. Just a thought and my 2 cents. Edit... this is just my completely uneducated 2 cents if it wasn’t apparent.
Cheers
Basically there are only 2 reasons to have a carbon barrel... 1, lighter weight rig. 2, you think it looks cool.
I would also think that with the higher frequency would come lower amplitude. The nodes may be really close together and hard to nail down but the reduced amplitude minimizes impact shifts when optimum barrel timing isn’t reached. I have nothing to back this up, just intuition. Maybe someone who actually studies these things can chime in!
formulajoe2 I would tend to agree I guess the ultimate example would be a structured barrel, I’m sure they have a harmonic frequency in some range but the amplitude would be so low due to rigidity.
Always learn a ton from your vids. Thank you
cheers Col, thanks
Thanks Mark for the information, very good and informative….. top shelf stuff as usual… well presented.
Cheers Phil, thanks
Great video, thank you for all of the well presented information!
Thanks Man, Cheers
Thanks for explaining this your knowledge is incredible and you do a great job articulating these concepts
Cheers Man, thanks
Thank you for your great Viedo. I appreciate your insights and knowledge that you have passed on to me.
I am planning a new rifle build, and have considered using a Carbonfiber Barrel. I am still evaluating the pro's and con's of this option.
cheers Dave, thanks
I'm getting ready to finish my AR-15 build with a Proof Research Carburetor Fiber Barrel in 18".
My thought was less heat from a smaller caliber should balance out the weight savings and carbon fiber composition concerns.
It also is a balance in testing it versus cost on a smaller caliber rifle. I'd hate to spend a lot more on a higher heat producing platform and find I have to now spend as much or more on a Krieger or Bartlien barrel.
Cheers
Most comprehensive gun channels in Australia.
Thanks Wenyu, Cheers
Great information I’m in the process of putting one on a 300wsm found your video very informative. Thanks
Cheers
Who makes a 300 WSM carbon fiber barrel?
Great video guys! You mean carbon wrap is not the latest and greatest unicorn to fit to your rifle??!! Just jokes. While carbon barrels make up for 30% of what we use, it should only be used where appropriate in a build spec. In this instance it can provide real benifits and value, used the in wrong way it's a waste of money and can even detract from the system. Really informative and considered approach to this topic guys! 👌
Thanks Gareth, great you liked the video, cheers and all the best.
Awesome information. Thank you.
Cheers
Hey Mark I built a Ruger 10-22 with a heavy carbon barrel shoots really accurate The crows hate me 😂👍
Awesome, Cheers
My carbon fibre barrel is indeed lighter and stays much cooler, which is perfect for a 300 Winmag
Cheers
My thought of using the carbon fiber barrel was WT balance for suppressor use on a field rifle. Glass, action stock, with a suppressor, my hope was to limit POI shift and still be packable. But seems like anything you will have to try it and see how it works. Sometimes your education is expensive other times you can learn from others. Try a friends.
Cheers
Very good guys informative like normal
Still working out how to work that thread for the break stay safe
Cheers Stan, all the best.
Great advice and insight into this technology. Well done Mark.
So, whats next. A Carbon Fiber 'structured' barrel perhaps??
Thanks Eric, and lots great concepts out there and lots to come, so we'll see, Cheers
Nice assessment.
Cheers
Great explanation, thank you.
Cheers Charles, thanks
Carbon barrels are great if u don't get em hott. Will get point of impact shift every time if u heat em up. There good for cold bore up to bout 4 shots then they need to cool. Or impact shift is drastic
Cheers
Thank you! Can you do a video on D.O.P.E. calculations from start to finish? I know most everyone would appreciate it.
DOPE = Data Of Previous Engagement, beyond that we have several videos that show how to get onto target using ballistic apps, will do some more in the future, Cheers
Another awesome vid- thank you very much!
Cheers Steve, thanks
Excellent review!...thanks
Thanks Jeff. Glad you liked. Cheers
This was a very useful video for me
awesome, cheers
Great stuff again. Cheers
Thanks again man, cheers
Thanks Mark. Good info.
Cheers
Thanks for the information!
Cheers
i've always been intrigued by carbon fiber barrels. btw before buying i'll wait for more feedback. i like the proof way of wrapping an uneven matrix of carbon....but i want a 5r rifling, so i' m very interested in the newer bartlein carbon barrels. hope to see some test in the future
Cheers
X-caliber makes a 5R wrapped barrel I've already heard negative about the Bartlin being heavier than the rest and rifling deformity and another good one is carbon six barrel company
Proof research have good results from carbon barrels mainly for PRS style shooting.
Yep, Cheers
Great video. Thanks for sharing.
Cheers Jerry
In discussing the processes by which carbon fiber is applied to the barrel, you didn’t mention using a pre cured sleeve and installing it over the barrel under mechanical tension as is done by BSF. I’m wondering what you might think of their approach and the effects on tensioning the barrel to maintain straightness. Do you feel different about their approach for a bolt action barrel vs their gas gun barrel with the interruption for the gas port? I’ve been looking at a BSF carbon fiber sleeved barrel for the purpose of getting a longer barrel / more muzzle velocity on an AR-10 without making it any heavier than it already is. I use this rifle for prs style competitions and it is already a heavy beast to move.
Lots of ways to skin that cat, really there are already good options and there will be more, just needs to be considered in the complete build....as said, Cheers
This I think it's where the real benefit is. When you need to be portable and are not just shooting off a rest or bipod. Offhand shooting weight is a big factor. Mark is spot on.
Did you go with the bsf on your AR-10? If so, how has it performed? Looking at doing the same thing in 6mm CM.
Great review and explanations as always ;) I am still stuck with my old 308 steel barrel ;)
Thanks Oddur, Cheers
Thank you
Cheers
Thanks for the knowledge Mark. What I'm curious about is the durability if you knick the CF. I've got a friend who is a serious cyclist and if you damage the weave on a CF bike frame almost no one will touch it to try to fix it.
Well all in the details, but, barrels and bikes CF is in application very different, a nick/scratch, can be a big issue on a CF bike frame, not some much on a barrel, Cheers
Keep in mind too - that cf bicycles are hollow, thin wall tubes, and cf rifle barrels are solid down to the liner.
@@machinist7230 I didn't think about that. Point well taken
@@bmstylee
There's a steel core in the middle. Damaging the CF might mess with point of aim a little, but it won't render the rifle inoperable.
The carbon fiber barrels sure look cool and that is really half of what we do but... the cost vs. everything else hasn't been worth the change to me. Thanks for the video and insight Mark. Cheers!
We? lol, each to his own, Cheers
Gday mark great content again, just wondering what chassis is on the first rifle mate?
GCPD, cheers
So, what it sounds like from this presentation (awesome BTW) the gist of a carbon fiber barrel is that depending on the caliber, it may not be appropriate. For example, a 7mm or 300 Win Mag, would have a significant recoil because it is more lightweight, and in a practical sense, then, it wouldn’t be great for accuracy, per se?
That can be the case, glad you liked, Cheers
I like carbon fiber barrels for my extreme lite weight hunting rifles. Will only use steel barrels for everything else
Cheers
I have a Bergara B-14 22lr carbon fibre barrel in a Cadex stock.
I wish I had never bought it, the barrel that is.
On hot days the barrel heats right up and my groups double in size.
The cost for a carbon fibre was not much more than a steel barrel but now I wish I would have saved that $100.00.
I will admit one thing though it sure is pretty !
Live and learn, lol, Cheers
Which brand would you prefer for a hunting rifle that needs to be on the lighter side. Proof research or some other company.
That would be a question for your gunsmith, Cheers
Can you compare all the specific CF brands? Also, how well do they hold up to mag dumping like a CMV steel barrel?
Just a general information, would need financial support to do tests like you ask, Cheers
Great, thanks! I guess i will stick to my Sako rifles!
Cheers
ive been tempted to get a carbon fiber barrel for longer distance hiking/ hunting walks but im not even sure on the price of them or main advantage other than weight savings thanks for clearing some stuff up , from my understanding the glue heats up pretty fast so you have to let the barrel cool off after a couple of shots ?
Cheers
Have you not heard of a pencil barrel normally a No.1 profile. A lot of weight in in the stock, rings, bottom metal, and optic. If your going to put some huge NightForce optic on with steel ring, bases and bottom metal than carbon fiber barrel is the least of your worries. Weight reduction is an all or nothing sort of thing when done correctly. Take a look at the New Ultra Light Arms and how they approach it. I read once that the stock only weights 3oz. I have to assume that is a typo but that what the article said.
Hi mark, awesome review bud. I’m about to build a hunting rifle using a defiance Anti X action. I’m so hard pressed and driving me nuts on what barrel to use. I have narrowed it down to 2 barrels. Proof Carbon Fiber 26” that weighs 3.3lbs or a Stainless Bench Mark 26” that weighs 3.42 lbs in counter #4. However, I would be getting the barrel fluted upon order so it should match exactly same weight as the proof or maybe tad less. Out of the 2 choices for hunting with 300wm would you choose? Looking for accuracy and weight seems to be pretty close. Looking forward to your insight as I’m dying to order one but can’t make up my mind. CF is cool looking but also heard a lot of reviews guy falls and chipped it. Steel I’ve never heard such a thing.
I would suggest talking to your gunsmith, I try offer many videos with general advice, but do not offer individual recommendations, sorry, Cheers
Good for light smalls....
Cheers
Yep!!!
Cheers Man, thank you.
I have a Bergara b14 r carbon fiber.....I like it.
Cheers
For me it was in the AR-15 platform I could get a Bull profile 20 inch barrel for the weight of a 16 inch A2 profile. I myself am curious if the stress relief of the barrel was done after the milling. Not to mention is the carbon fiber under tension?
Thanks Myles
Any thoughts on the tensioned Voquartsen 10/22 barrels that use a carbon fiber outer sleeve? I realize that's not what you are discussing in this video because there isn't barrel to outer sleeve contact (I don't think). Seems like I remember you doing a tensioned barrel.
Bit the same, bit different, but really much more a small cal, maybe AR thing....Cheers
I have one and it's very accurate. I use it for shooting offhand .22 precision competitions. Shoots better than you can hold it. It will quite happily put everything in the 10 if you do your bit.
For myself, the more I see and read about carbon fiber bbl's, the less I really want one, they do have thir quirks, which I don't need to deal with. Great product, useful in zillions of apps, but. not convinced about bbl's.
Thanks Dave
I never worry about my hunting rifle weight.
Cheers
Id just as soon on a hunting rifle have a slim contour SS barrel with a tuner brake on it and be actualky lighter weight and just as accurate if not more accurate . CF has also shown to be harder to tune a load for in my circle of shooting friends .
Cheers
Had a friend purchase a carbon fibre barrel mostly for its exclusivity. He spent many hundreds to get it to shoot. He even added weight to the front of the stock. He eventually got it to shoot as good as my $35 stock barrel though!
Lol, Cheers
Switch barrels are the bee’s knees.
Can be, lol, Cheers