Affiliate Disclosure: AmmoCave.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Lucky Gunner, Optics Planet, Brownells, Cabelas, Academy Sports & Outdoors, Rainier Arms, Palmetto State Armory, Sportsman’s Guide, Ammo.com, Ammo Man, Primary Arms, MidWayUsa, Amazon, eBay, etс. Clicking a link helps keep AmmoCave.com free, at no extra cost to you!
Authors: Each article is verified by AmmoCave's expert team. Professional hunters, firearm trainers, gunsmiths, and gun experts write the articles. AmmoCave Team independently researches, tests, reviews, and uses recommendations from our community of gun owners. We may earn commissions from shopping links.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect any agency's official policy or position. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions about Best Barrel Length For 308 2024 in the comments and join the discussions. Let's share 💬 our ammo & gun experiences together!
What is the barrel length? 🧐
It is the distance from the muzzle of the weapon to the end of the barrel. The longer the barrel, the more accurate and powerful a firearm will be. In terms of the best barrel length for 308, it can range anywhere from 16 inches to 24 inches depending on personal preference, application, and other factors.
Benefits 🤩
When it comes to a barrel length for a .308 rifle, there are some key points to consider. The most important of these is the intended purpose of the firearm: hunting, tactical shooting, or target shooting.
- ☑️ When it comes to hunting, a balance must be struck between accuracy and weight. A longer barrel will naturally provide greater accuracy at greater distances due to increased velocity, but it also adds more weight to the rifle which makes it more difficult to carry over extended periods while traversing rough terrain.
- ☑️ Moving on to target shooting, having a longer barrel will again increase accuracy at distance as well as reduce recoil; however, it also increases setup time and cost due to added accessories such as bipods being necessary for stability when firing from a prone position.
- ☑️ Finally, tactical shooters must take into account not only improved accuracy but also maneuverability when selecting the perfect barrel length for their needs. Longer barrels add considerable weight while moving into most enclosed spaces that are much more cumbersome; short barrels lack much-needed range while increasing muzzle flash visibility in low-light scenarios.
🚩 In conclusion, barrel length selection should be made with a keen eye toward purpose as every shooter has different needs that require tailored solutions for optimal performance outcomes.
Features 🔥
The first and most important is the impact of barrel length on velocity, accuracy, and ballistics. Barrel length can play an important role in many aspects of shooting with a 308-caliber rifle, so it’s important to understand how it affects performance.
➡️ Velocity is the primary factor affected by barrel length in 308 rifles.
- 🔰 A longer barrel will provide more space for the powder to burn, resulting in higher muzzle velocities and increased energy downrange.
- 🔰 However, a longer barrel also increases weight, making the rifle harder to handle and slower to turn.
➡️ Accuracy is another critical element of shooting with a 308-caliber rifle that’s impacted by barrel length.
- 🔰 Longer barrels are generally more accurate than shorter ones due to their improved stability during firing and reduced muzzle blast.
- 🔰 On the other hand, shorter barrels are easier to maneuver and can be better suited for close-range shooting.
➡️ Finally, barrel length also plays an important role in ballistics.
- 🔰 Longer barrels offer higher muzzle velocities and improved accuracy, which can be crucial for long-distance shooting.
- 🔰 The downside is that they’re heavier and more unwieldy, so they’re not ideal for quick target acquisition or fast follow-up shots.
📌 Ultimately, the best barrel length for 308 rifles depends on what type of shooting you plan on doing most frequently.
Barrel Length & .308 Bullet Velocity 💥
The barrel length can have a significant impact on bullet velocity. Generally, the longer the barrel length, the higher the muzzle velocity.
- 🔷 While shorter barrels will produce lower muzzle velocities, they also provide better maneuverability when shooting in tight spaces or close quarters.
- 🔷 In addition, longer barrels are more accurate at long ranges due to increased ballistic stability.
🚨 The key is to find a balance between performance and practicality.
- ✳️ A 20-inch or 24-inch barrel should provide adequate accuracy and velocity for most uses.
- ✳️ However, if you plan on taking shots across long distances or variations in terrain and wind conditions, then consider going with a 26-inch or 28-inch barrel to maximize bullet velocity and accuracy.
Top 25 🚀 Barrel Length For 308
1# Proof Research PR10 Carbon Fiber 308 Win Rifle Barrels
If you need a high-performance rifle barrel that is both lightweight and durable, then you need a Proof Research PR10 Carbon Fiber 308 Win Rifle Barrel. These barrels are made through a unique manufacturing process that results in a lighter barrel that still meets all functional specifications. And because they are made from carbon fiber, these barrels are also some of the most durable on the market. So don’t sacrifice performance for weight – get a Proof Research PR10 Carbon Fiber 308 Win Rifle Barrel and have the best of both worlds.
2# Wilson Combat AR Threaded Barrel
Want to purchase a high-quality, reliable barrel for your next AR-10 project? Take a look at Wilson Combat. The match-grade barrels are crafted from the finest 416R rifle-rated steel and precision machined on computer-controlled equipment to the exacting specifications. Each barrel undergoes a rigorous final inspection process to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality and performance. With crisp CNC markings and a chamber and gas port optimized for reliability, the barrels offer superior accuracy and longevity.
3# Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Pencil Rifle Barrel
Need a premium quality barrel upgrade for your .308 Winchester rifle? Pay attention to the Faxon Firearms .308 WIN Pencil Rifle Barrel! This barrel is constructed from lightweight 4150 steel and features a nitride finish inside and out for superior corrosion resistance. It is fully stress-relieved and air-gauge tested for accuracy and features an 11-degree target crown for improved accuracy at long range.
4# Faxon Firearms Creedmoor Barrel
Step up your shooting game with a Faxon Firearms Creedmoor Barrel. These barrels are machined from tough 416R stainless steel and treated with nitride inside and out for superior corrosion resistance and an extended lifetime of use. The 5R rifling results in reduced jacket deformation, providing enhanced accuracy and making it easier to clean the barrel. Whether you’re hitting the range or heading into the field, make sure you’re equipped with a Faxon Firearms Creedmoor Barrel.
5# Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel
If you’re searching for a high-performance barrel for your .308 rifle, look no more but the Faxon Firearms .308 Winchester Heavy Fluted Rifle Barrel. This barrel is made from 416-R steel for superior strength and durability and features 5R rifling for increased accuracy. The Nitride treatment resists corrosion and extends the life of the barrel, while the nickel Teflon coating provides smooth operation and enhanced accuracy.
6# DEZ Arms AR-10 Twisted Flute .308/7.62×51 Barrel
Do you want to upgrade your .308 AR-10 rifle? Check out the DEZ Arms AR-10 Twisted Flute Barrel. This high-quality barrel is crafted from 416R stainless steel for superior durability and accuracy. It features a carbine-length gas system and forearm for easy installation and is available with either a twister or straight flute. With its precision machining and 5/8 x 24 muzzle threading, the DEZ Arms AR-10 Twisted Flute Barrel is great for anyone who wants to take their .308 rifle to the next level.
7# Proof Research 26-inch Barrel
When it comes to high-performance rifles, Proof Research is proving that carbon fiber barrels are the way to go. These barrels are lighter than traditional steel barrels, but they don’t sacrifice any performance or accuracy. In fact, they often outperform steel barrels in terms of accuracy and durability. Thanks to Proof Research’s unique manufacturing process and advanced composite materials, these carbon fiber barrels can achieve match-grade accuracy while weighing a fraction of traditional steel barrels.
8# FN America SCAR 17S Barrel Assembly
Demanding a top-quality barrel assembly for your FN America SCAR 17S rifle? Note the FNH USA SCAR 17S Barrel Assembly. This assembly is made from cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined MIL-SPEC steel and comes with the front sight assembly, gas block assembly, gas regulator, gas piston, and flash hider installed. It’s easily installed by the user with a Torx T25 and 62 In Lb torque wrench and is ready to shoot without head spacing. So don’t settle for less – get the best with the FNH USA SCAR 17S Barrel Assembly.
9# International Barrels Pre-Fit .308 Winchester Barrel
Require a top-quality barrel for your .308 Winchester? Think about the International Barrels Pre-Fit .308 Winchester Barrel. This barrel is made from 416-R stainless steel for superior strength and accuracy and is triple stress relieved and heat treated for durability in even the most demanding situations. It also features rough and finished strobe markings and an identifier “IDN” on the barrel extension, so you can be sure you’re getting the exact barrel you ordered. So don’t wait any longer, order your International Barrels Pre-Fit .308 Winchester Barrel today!
10# Criterion Barrels DPMS Pattern Hybrid Barrel
Wish to get the edge on your competition? Consider switching to a 6.5 Creedmoor from Criterion Barrels. Their 6.5 Creedmoor Hybrid barrels offer superb accuracy and balance, perfect for pushing the limits of your 308-AR. Backed by Their satisfaction guarantee, you can be confident in their craftsmanship and consistency. And because you can use all the same parts as your 308, making the switch is simple and easy. So don’t wait – make the switch today and give yourself the long-range advantage you need to win.
11# JP Enterprises Supermatch Barrel
If you would like to upgrade your rifle with a sturdy aftermarket barrel, note the JP Enterprises Supermatch Barrel. This barrel is machined from stainless steel for extra durability and longevity and features an enhanced bolt that results in a perfect fit for your weapon. With a 5/8×24 TPI and a 1-11.25 barrel twist rate, this barrel is sure to boost your shot performance. So why wait? Upgrade your firearm today with a JP Enterprises Supermatch Barrel!
12# Sons of Liberty Gun Works 12.5in, .308 Combat Grade Barrel
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works 12.5in, .308 Combat Grade Barrel is a high-quality product that is built to last. Made from durable and reliable materials, this barrel is perfect for those who want a long-lasting product that will provide them with a great shooting experience. With its precision construction and affordable price, the Sons of Liberty Gun Works 12.5in, .308 Combat Grade Barrel is a great choice for anyone looking for a new barrel for their rifle.
13# Spikes Tactical .308 Barrel Kit for AR-10
Looking for a .308 barrel kit that provides a smooth shooting experience? Look no further than the Spikes Tactical .308 Barrel Kit for AR-10! This kit includes a barrel, gas block, and gas tube, all finished in black nitride for a sleek look. The barrel is made of stainless steel with a chrome lining and features a cold hammer forged construction and a 1/12 twist rate. This barrel kit is the perfect addition to your AR-10 and is sure to provide years of reliable performance.
14# Shaw 308 Winchester Hbar 22 in Flute Barrel
Shaw’s 308 Winchester HBAR 22″ Flute is a high-quality barrel that is outstanding for your AR-15 or AR-10 rifle. This barrel is made from 416R stainless steel and features a 5/8×24 thread pitch. It also has a 22″ HBar profile and is compatible with DPMS Pattern upper receivers. This barrel is sure to give you the accuracy and precision you need when shooting. Order yours today!
15# Franklin Armory Militia Model 7.62×51/308 Winchester Barrel
The Franklin Armory Militia Model 7.62×51/308 Winchester Barrel is a high-quality barrel excellent for your AR-10 build. The barrel is made from 4140 Chromoly steel and features a salt bath nitride chamber, bore, and finish. It has a 1/10 twist rate and is threaded for a 5/8in-24 thread. The .750in a gas block makes it perfect for use with a rifle-length gas system.
16# Daniel Defense Delta 5 20″ 308 Win Barrel
Swap out the barrel on your DELTA 5 without needing a gunsmith with this easy-to-use barrel conversion kit. With cold hammer-forged barrels that are just as accurate and long-lasting as any on the market, you’ll be able to shoot with confidence knowing that your DELTA 5 is always performing at its best. The modularity of the design means that you can easily switch between calibers without any hassle, and with the included 1/2″ barrel nut wrench, you can do it all yourself in minutes.
17# Radical Firearms 24in .308 Stainless Steel Match Rifle Barrel
The Radical Firearms 24in .308 Stainless Steel Match Rifle Barrel is a faultless choice for those who need a high-quality and durable barrel for their firearm. Made from long-lasting and reliable materials, this barrel is designed to provide you with many years of use. Additionally, this barrel is highly accurate, making it the perfect choice for those who demand the utmost precision from their firearm. Order your Radical Firearms 24in .308 Stainless Steel Match Rifle Barrel today!
18# Thompson Center Arms Pro Hunter .308 Winchester Gauge Barrel
The Thompson Center Arms Pro Hunter .308 Winchester Gauge Barrel is a super-quality barrel that is wonderful for hunters. It is made of stainless steel and is 15 inches long. It is also drilled and tapped for scope mounting. This barrel is a good choice for hunters who want a reliable and accurate barrel.
19# Tactical Edge Nitride Rifle Length .308 Barrel
Require a trustworthy barrel for your .308 Winchester rifle? Pay attention to the Tactical Edge Nitride 1:10 Rifle Length .308 Barrel. This barrel is made from high-strength nitride-treated steel and features an M4 barrel profile and 1-10 twist rate, making it ideal for use with a variety of different ammunition types. The black finish looks great and provides excellent protection against corrosion. Plus, the 18″ length makes this barrel perfect for use on a variety of different rifle platforms.
20# Nordic Components Light Weight Barrel
The Nordic Components Light Weight Barrel is the perfect choice for anyone in search of a high-quality, lightweight barrel that can be used for either hunting or target shooting. This barrel is made from black Teflon-finished 416R stainless steel and features M4 feed ramps and a rifle-length gas port. It has a 1:10 twist rate and is chambered for 308 Winchester/762NATO. The 5/8×24 muzzle threads allow you to attach a variety of muzzle devices, and the overall length is 18″.
21# Brownells AR 308 Heavy Profile Barrel
The Brownells 6.5 Creedmoor AR 308 Heavy-Profile barrel is a superb addition to any tack-driving precision-rifle platform based on the tried-and-true AR-10 platform. This barrel is made using 416-R certified stainless-steel bar stock and is designed, machined, and finished by craftsmen in the United States. The barrel is equipped with a rifle-length gas system and features a heavy contour for maximum heat dissipation and accuracy.
22# Criterion Barrels AR 308 Barrels
If you want to upgrade your AR-style rifle with a precision-made barrel in the highly popular 6.5 Creedmoor calibers, then Criterion Barrels has an ideal option for you. The Criterion Barrels AR .308 Match Grade barrels are machined from high-quality 416R stainless steel and feature an M4 barrel extension for easy installation. Each Criterion Barrels AR .308 Match Grade barrel is available in a black finish and features a threaded muzzle for attaching a muzzle brake or suppressor. The barrels are available with a rifle-length gas system only, making them the perfect choice for long-range shooting.
23# Faxon Firearms 308 Winchester Big Gunner Profile Barrels
Faxon Firearms is proud to offer its Big Gunner Profile Barrels in .308 Winchester. These barrels are the big brothers to the popular 5.56 Gunner barrels and feature a medium taper behind the gas block. The gas block journal is set to .750″ for compatibility with the most common gas blocks. From the gas block journal forward, it is used as a thinner taper, designed to reduce weight yet maintain rigidity for high rates of fire and as a suppressor host. Each Big Gunner .308 Win barrel is machined from stress-relieved 4150 chrome moly steel and finished with a tough, wear-resistant Nitride finish.
24# BSF Barrels 308 AR Carbon Fiber Barrel
The BSF Barrels – 308 Ar Barrel is the perfect choice for those who want the best possible accuracy from their rifles. The barrel is made from ordnance-grade 416R stainless steel and features a roll-wrapped carbon fiber sleeve. This sleeve provides excellent rigidity and cooling, while also keeping the weight down. The BSF barrels are also easy to clean, making them a great choice for those who want a low-maintenance barrel.
25# Christensen Arms 308 AR Carbon Fiber Barrel
When it comes to accuracy and performance, Christensen Arms carbon-fiber barrels are in a class of their own. Thanks to precision engineering adopted from the aerospace industry, these barrels are crafted using a proprietary layered design that offers any marksman unrivaled accuracy. The barrel lining is made from match-grade 416R stainless steel for the utmost precision, while the gas block and gas tube are included for your convenience.
How to install a barrel? 🧑🔧
Installing a barrel is not as difficult as it may seem. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 🛠️ A set of Allen wrenches
- 🛠️ A torque wrench
- 🛠️ Gunsmithing screws (if applicable)
- 🛠️ A vise
- 🛠️ An action wrench (optional but recommended)
Once you have all of your tools gathered, follow these steps to install your barrel:
- ➡️ Remove the old barrel from your rifle. This will usually involve unscrewing a few screws that hold it in place. Be sure to save any screws or other parts that come off with the barrel.
- ➡️ Install the new barrel into the rifle. Again, this will usually involve screwing it in place with the same screws that held the old barrel in.
- ➡️ Use your Allen wrenches to tighten the screws until they are snug. Do not overtighten them, as this can strip the threads or damage the barrel.
- ➡️ Use your torque wrench to apply the proper amount of torque to the screws. This will vary depending on the type of barrel and screws you are using, so be sure to consult your owner’s manual or a gunsmith for guidance.
- ➡️ Once the screws are properly torqued, reassemble the rest of your rifle and enjoy shooting with your new barrel!
FAQ 🤠
Conclusion 😊
Barrel length is an important factor when it comes to accuracy and precision. Different barrel lengths will produce different results, so it is important to find the best barrel length for 308 for your needs. In this article, we have reviewed some of the top products on the market and provided helpful tips on how to choose the right one for you. We hope that you found this information useful and that it will help you make a decision about which barrel is right for you. 😍👍
Tags: #best barrel length for 308 / #best barrel length for 308 ar / #best barrel length for 308 bolt action / #best barrel length for .308 / #best length barrel for 308
I built a 6.5 Creedmoor AR using an Aero Precision receiver set about a year ago and it turned out to be a great success. The rifle is soft shooting and reliable, making it a home run for my build. Recently, I decided to create a .308 upper by combining an Aero upper and a 20” BA barrel. This build is intended to be more of a battle rifle, with a focus on accuracy rather than precision?
I went with a 16” barrel for my .308 build instead of a 20” one because the difference in velocity between the two is only about 100-120 FPS. I found that the extra 4 inches and weight of a 20” barrel become noticeable after carrying the rifle for an extended period. To ease your mind, I should mention that the M110A1 (308) also has a 16.3” barrel.
Just to clarify, your intended use case for this build is as a battle rifle, with a focus on accuracy (grouping shots closely together) rather than precision (hitting exactly where you aim)? In my opinion, the weight reduction and increased agility of a shorter barrel are more important than the slight decrease in drop/drift at 300 yards that a longer barrel might provide. I also believe that, with the advancements in barrel tuning and materials, the effect of a shorter barrel on barrel whip is relatively insignificant, even with slim profiles.
For carrying purposes, I recommend an 18-inch barrel. If you’ll only be using the rifle from a bench, then a 20-inch barrel is suitable. However, if you’re looking to reduce the performance of your round (which costs around 80 cents to a dollar per trigger pull), then a 16-inch barrel is your best option. I own both a 20-inch PSA and an 18-inch Aero barrel.
I am looking to build my first AR10 and I have decided to go with a .308. Although I have other rifles for long-range shooting (beyond 1000 yards), I will mainly be using this rifle for shooting at 800 yards or closer. I want to be able to shoot in various positions and hike with it, so I prefer not to have a very long barrel unless shorter barrels are viable options.
One of the advantages of using .308 is that it doesn’t lose a significant amount of velocity per inch after 18″. This is less than many other rounds. An 18″ barrel should suffice for your needs, but I think you may find that 800 yards are pushing the limits of the cartridge.
After conducting extensive research on the comparison between 16″, 18″, and 20″ barrel lengths for AR10s in .308, I initially had plans to go with a 20″ barrel. However, I eventually settled on a 16″ barrel. In the future, I might consider getting a 22″ 6.5 Creedmoor for longer distance shooting, but my main purpose is not anything beyond 500 yards, as I don’t have access to ranges that long in my area.
Building a rifle for a specific purpose is more important than the small difference in velocity (100-150 FPS) between 16″ and 20″ barrels. I have an 18″ barrel on one of my rifles with a heavy barrel and 4-16 scope, which is enjoyable to shoot at long distances with minimal recoil. However, it’s not as versatile for close-range or off-hand shooting. On the other hand, my 16″ barrel is lighter and equipped with a 1-6 scope, making it a blast to shoot at close ranges, standing, and quickly. While it may not be as stable as the larger rifle, it can still reach out if I take my time. Both of my rifles are suppressed and are suitable for their intended purposes. The 2″ difference in barrel length and 50 FPS difference is the least significant factor in my opinion. If you’re just shooting at paper targets from a bench out to 500 yards, it doesn’t matter. However, if you prioritize lighter weight and better handling, especially with a suppressor, then go for the 16″ barrel.
I own an 18-inch, 16-inch, and 12.5-inch rifle in .308 caliber. The 22-inch and 24-inch are 6.5CM rifles. I prefer to shoot all my rifles with a suppressor. The 18-inch rifle is not my go-to as the 16-inch is just as effective and accurate, but with a little more drop in trajectory. However, I don’t mind the trade-off for a lighter and more maneuverable firearm. I am confident that my 16-inch .308 can handle anything I need it to unless I am shooting at a distance of several hundred yards or more, in which case I would turn to my 6.5CM.