Faxon Duty Gunner 5.56 NATO 18-inch 1:8 Nitride Barrel

The Faxon Firearms Duty Series Gunner is an 18-inch AR-15/M16-compatible barrel designed for use with 5.56 NATO (.223 Rem) cartridges. It uses a Gunner profile that blends the durability of a Government-profile barrel with the weight savings and handling of a pencil-style profile. The barrel is made from 4150 steel and finished with QPQ black nitride on both the bore and exterior. Faxon reports stress-relief and air-gauge testing, along with an 11-degree target crown and button rifling to support consistent accuracy.

Key Specifications

• The caliber is 5.56 NATO (.223 Rem).
• The barrel length is 18 inches.
• The rate of twist is 1:8".
• The profile is Gunner (blend of Gov’t and Pencil).
• The barrel material is 4150 steel.
• The finish is QPQ black nitride.
• The muzzle is threaded 1/2-28.
• The barrel uses button rifling.
• The gas system is rifle length with a rifle-length gas port.
• The muzzle is finished with an 11-degree target crown.

The Duty Series Gunner barrel is tailored for shooters who want a balanced combination of durability, reduced weight forward of the receiver, and reliable accuracy for duty, training, or general-purpose field use. Its Gunner contour and QPQ nitride treatment offer practical corrosion resistance and long service life while the 1:8" twist stabilizes a wide range of common 5.56/.223 projectiles. This barrel is a direct replacement option for AR-15/M16 platforms where a durable, accurate 18-inch barrel is desired.