At a Glance: Best 6.5 Grendel Barrel
- OUR TOP PICK: Faxon Firearm AR-15 6.5 Grendel Heavy Profile 20″
- MOST POPULAR: Criterion Barrels AR-15 6.5 Grendel Hybrid
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Brownells AR-15AR-15 6.5 Grendel Barrels
Comparison of The Best 6.5 Grendel Barrel
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
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Our Top Pick
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Faxon Firearms AR-15 6.5 Grendel Heavy Profile 20″ |
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Our Top Pick
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Criterion Barrels AR-15 6.5 Grendel Hybrid |
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View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
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Brownells AR-15AR-15 6.5 Grendel Barrels |
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If you own an AR-15 rifle or any other mid-range rifle, then you will want one of these best 6.5 Grendel barrels for your AR-15.
We Put Together The 6 Best 6.5 Grendel AR-15 Barrels to Kick-off the Ultimate Shopping Spree
Any shooter would like all the assistance they can get when it comes to their firing accuracy and exceeding their ballistic performance. Getting the best AR 15 barrel upgrades is the first step you need to take in that direction.
You can enjoy the benefit of lower recoil that is perfect for hunting and competitive shooting. It would not be wrong to say that the Grendel barrel will make a positive difference in your overall experience and performance. And once you get one, there is no turning back.
Choosing your next best 6.5mm Grendel barrel can be overwhelming and even nerve-racking. With so many brands, each promising to be the best on the market, a go-to list of the most reliable ones can be both handy and convenient.
Faxon Firearm AR-15 6.5 Grendel Heavy Profile 20″
The AR-15 6.5 Grendel Heavy Profile from Faxon Firearms boasts a durable and precise 20-inch barrel crafted from 416R stainless steel with a nitride finish on its internal and external sides. This makes it corrosion and rust-resistant.
I give a thumbs-up to this beautiful black barrel because it uses 5R button rifling inside the barrel, which improves accuracy by counterbalancing the grooves and lands in your barrel, unlike the old-fashioned rifling. This also ensures that bullet distortion is kept at the lowest minimum while it travels down your barrel once it is fired.
KEY FEATURES
- Cartridge: 6.5 Grendel
- Contour: Heavy
- Finish: Black
- Gas System Length: Rifle
- Length: 20″
- Muzzle Threads: 5/8-24
- Twist: 1-8
You will also notice how the Faxon’s muzzle is threaded, which means that you can equip your 6.5 Grendel with anything that you currently own or would be buying soon. You can furnish it from flash hiders to muzzle brakes.
Since the barrel is fluted, it encourages quick cooling even after continuous rapid shots. You can be sure that you have more than enough stability for your bullets.
Perfect for long-distance so you can be assured of the barrel’s durability. This is one barrel that will last you through all your future expeditions while also improving your d can last in all your future outdoor shooting while improving your overall performance and experience.
Pros
- Fast cooling action
- Lightweight with fluted contour
- Aesthetically beautiful
- 5R bullet rifling for maximum precision
- Compatible with the Type II bolt.
Cons
- Barrel is not pinned for a gas block.
- Barrel is not dimpled
Criterion Barrels AR-15 6.5 Grendel Hybrid
The Criterion Barrels AR-15 6.5 Grendel Hybrid gets bonus points for its user-friendly and straightforward installation.
Once it is successfully set up, it’s excellent built and features ensure it is smooth sailing, or rather shooting all the way. Gun enthusiasts like you would love how much boost it contributes to your accuracy shortly after its break-in period.
KEY FEATURES
- Cartridge: 6.5 Grendel
- Contour: HBAR
- Finish: Black
- Gas System Length: Rifle
- Length: 22″
- Muzzle Threads: 5/8-24
- Twist: 1-8
- You will be impressed with this barrel’s overall performance even if you are just upgrading the barrel and nothing else.
What makes this hybrid stand out is how efficiently it functions in long range. It doesn’t matter if you are doing casual target practice or serious hunting because you can expect it to give you the support and accuracy you need.
If you are looking for a balanced and reliable partner to keep up with all your adventures, then this is the barrel for you. It is made of solid stainless steel that is also rustproof.
The barrel comes with a hybrid contour, and you have two color options for its finish.
Thanks to its 5/8-24 TPI threaded muzzle, most aftermarket suppressors and brakes are compatible, so you won’t have to purchase a new one just for this barrel. What’s more, the brand understands that shooters would like to have options, so you choose between a rifle-length and a mid-length gas system.
Easy to maintain, the cleaning process is also hassle-free and almost effortless, making this hybrid barrel a great choice on aspects like strength, durability, and user-friendliness.
Pros
- Hybrid contour with two color options for finish
- Durable and rustproof
- Easy Install
- TPI threaded muzzle for compatibility
- Two gas system options
Cons
- Relatively heavy
Brownells AR-15 6.5 Grendel Barrel
Brownells in business since 1939 is a brand that is unquestionably serious about its firearms, and this 6.5 Grendel Barrel is no exception to the quality and craftsmanship that the brand is known for. Its length options alone make it a top choice when it comes to tapping targets in long-distance shooting. You can be sure that your accuracy won’t be compromised even at a thousand yards.
KEY FEATURES
- Cartridge: 6.5 Grendel
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Gas System Length: Rifle
- Length: 18″, 20″ or 24″
- Muzzle Threads: 5/8-24
- Twist: 1-8
One of the reasons why Brownell has cemented a name in the firearm industry is for its use of high-caliber materials.
It also features a threaded muzzle at the end, so you don’t need to go the extra length to make modifications if you want to add compensators or muzzle brakes. This helps you have quicker follow-up shots with minimal recoil and limited muzzle flash.
Pros
- Includes matched Type II bolt
- Tapered design for the overall medium profile
- Longest length at 24-inches
- Maintains accuracy even at a thousand yards
- Threaded muzzle
- Comes with a Type II bolt
Cons
- Extremely heavy
- Hard to manage especially in tight and cramped quarters
Faxon Firearms 12 inch Gunner Profile 6.5 Grendel Barrel
This 12-inch Gunner profile from Faxon Firearms results from combining two of the best-accomplished faces – the Pencil and Government.
The Gunner had adapted the Government’s profile from its extension to its gas blocks and famous taper. From there, improvement takes over as it moves to a .750-inches block journal and pencil profile out the front.
KEY FEATURES
- Cartridge: 6.5 Grendel
- Finish: Salt Bath Nitride
- Gas System Length: Carbine
- Length: 12”
- Muzzle Threads: 5/8-24
- Twist: 1-8
With a better design, the weight in the barrel’s front is removed, which means that you have more versatility while at the same time maximizing the heat resistance and alleviating whip.
I give this barrel a 5-star rating as it is 100% manufactured in-house using nothing but the best materials. Crafted from a 416R stainless steel in 5R rifling with reduced sharp angles, you can have increased velocity with minimal maintenance.
Another bonus star is deserved because this lightweight barrel with Nitride treated inside out, increasing the barrel life and ensuring that it is well-protected from the natural elements.
Furthermore, the extension is also Nickel Teflon coated, which helps maintain a snug fit between the received and extension. This maintains dry lubricity and makes it more corrosion resistant while improving the overall accuracy.
Pros
- Reduced sharp angles
- Offers better velocity
- Nitride treated for protection and longevity
- Extension is Nickel Teflon coated
- Improves overall accuracy
Cons
- Slightly over gassed
ODIN Works Grendel/LBC Barrel w/tunable GB
With its sophisticated finish, sleek, elegant lines, and superior fit, this is an outstanding Grendel barrel from Odin Works.
This 16-inch barrel is made of 416R Stainless Steel Hand Lapped Button 8 twist rifling. This is the barrel that will come in very handy when you are in tight groups. Straight from the box, you can set it in your upper and start using it without any fancy breaking in or complicated installation process.
The features that make this product stand out are its tunable gas block and the boosted accuracy it provides. With a great price, finish, and fit, you can expect spot-on accuracy even at varying distances. This is a barrel that is known to keep up and is also a charm to work with which is why it makes its way to this list.
Pros
- Improved accuracy
- Sophisticated finish
- Easy and hassle-free installation
- Tunable gas block
Cons
- Gas block could be tighter
JP Enterprises Supermatch Barrel With Headspaced Jp Enhanced Bolt, 6.5 Grendel
JP Enterprises is one of the sought-after brands in the rifle industry today. If you want quality guns, gun parts, and accessories, then JP is the brand to set your sights on.
If by any chance, you own one of the JP rifles, then it is just as wise to get their Supermatch Barrel to make it one super pair. The brand’s barrel is made to follow the appropriate specifications and is compatible with their existing firearms. Don’t worry because this barrel is also well-suited with other set-ups.
The JP Supermatch is made from rugged but dependable. It is treated with cryogenics to guarantee the expectedness of cold bore shots while ensuring that the thermal drift is kept at a minimum. The barrel is likewise leap-lapped and air-gauged to ensure 100% durability and strength. You can expect this JP barrel to give you a longer lifespan and an accuracy that will both surprise and please you.
Additionally, the Supermatch also boasts an exclusive JP Enhanced Bolt system that is strategically spaced for better fit and functionality.
Expect this button barrel to turn into a beast in the field because of its power.
Pros
- Durable and solid construction
- Comes with a 1:8 button twist
- Superb accuracy
- Integrated JP Enhanced Bolt system
- Cryogenically treated
Cons
- Limited compatibility with other set-ups
Buyer’s Guide to Selecting the Best 6.5 Grendel Barrel
The goal is to buy and bring home the top-of-the-line 6.5 Grendel barrel. You can only do that by being a smart and conscious shopper.
Compare, compare and compare some more because this is going to be a very steep investment. Below are significant factors that you need to consider during the buying process. Keeping these factors in mind will ensure that you get value for your money while being a proud owner of a 6.5 Grendel barrel that will serve its purpose very well.
Advantages of the 6.5 Grendel Barrel
Despite its price, getting the 6.5 Grendel Barrel is still a value-for-money deal and a great upgrade for your rifle. Most gun and shooting enthusiasts would agree that it comes with many benefits and perks.
Here are some of the astounding advantages of this product that will surely get your buy-in.
- Additional Accuracy – in the world of hunting, precision can make or break your shot. Thanks to the low recoil and extremely accurate caliber of the 6.5 Grendel, you don’t need to stress too much about missing your mark. If long-distance is one of your preferred yardages, this is precisely what the 6.5 Grendel is intended for. Upgrading to a special barrel will enhance your rifle’s general accuracy while compensating for barrel whip, heat, and stiffness.
- Aesthetics – this is not exactly an advantage when it comes to performance, but most of the best barrels are beautiful, sleek, and seamless. This helps if you are the kind that gives weight to the overall looks of your paraphernalia. The 6.5 Grendel is an excellent firing must-have that can be a talking point with your buddies. You can show it off or it can take pride of place in your arsenal.
- Repetitive Costs – Rifles are an expensive hobby. Even the smallest accessory, including ammunition, comes with a steep price tag. A barrel is expected to start chipping-off and may likely need to be replaced after about 10,000 to 20,000 rounds based on how you maintain it and the fire rate. Top-of-the-line and quality barrels can give you more than that 20,000 rounds expiration date. It can have a longer life with minimal to zero impact on performance, so you can enjoy your barrel double the time before you need a new one. With a 6.5 Grendel barrel, you have plenty of time before you need to invest in a new one without putting another dent in your bank account.
- Performance – another advantage of having the best 6.5 Grendel barrel is the convenience to undertake any needed or wanted upgrades without the need to modify and adjust your needs.
You most likely would have brakes and compensators already, and with a pre-threaded muzzle, you won’t have any issues with compatibility.
→ The 8 Best AR-15 Flash Hiders Reviewed
What are the Differences in the Different 6.5 Grendel Barrels?
Not all 6.5 Grendel barrels are the same. Among all 6.5 Grendel barrels reviewed above, all are smart purchases, but despite the fact that all of them look almost the same, some subtle differences can influence your overall decision based on your need.
The great 6.5 Grendel barrels have an advantage primarily in the gas system. Another difference will be the carbine length (some use a carbine 16-inches in length, and some use the full 20-inches length and even longer barrel dimension.)
Always note that the length of your barrel directly influences the size of your gas chamber. Longer barrels are for longer range purposes and vice versa, so the length of your barrel and gas system will dictate your target range.
The weight of the barrel is another difference among these brands. This depends on the materials used, which will also dictate the durability, dispersion, and corrosion-resistance capability of your chosen barrel.
Features to Consider When Purchasing a New 6.5 Grendel Barrel
Barrel Length
The barrel’s overall length alongside the gas system length plays a pivotal role in how far you can precisely fire your rifle. Simply said, the longer your barrel, the longer the distance and range you will be able to cover and shoot and with more accurate shot placements.
What is the best barrel length for 6.5 Grendel?
Usually, AR-15 barrels have three types specific to length. The 16-inches carbine length, 18.5-inches mid-length, and the 20-inch rifle length.
Some barrels are longer and shorter than the three typical length types so you can consider them based on your requirements. If you are after the precision shooting, you would want to go for a rifle-length barrel with a second option of a mid-length. If you are into long-distance, the 18.5-inches should suit your requirements.
Barrel Rifling / Twist Rate
Look for a barrel that can efficiently handle varying bullet weights, and so far, it is the 1:8 that is most reliable and adaptable.
The twist rate is the number of inches that your bullet travels to complete a rotation before it exits the barrel. So if a barrel has a twist rate of 1:8, this means that the barrel would need to travel 8-inches down through the barrel before it completes a single rotation. Your choice of twist rate would also depend on the weight of the bullet that you use.
So if a bullet weighs 160 grains, a 1:9 twist rate is acceptable while 1:12 is adequate for a bullet weighing 80 grains.
Fluting / Contour
It is best to get a fluted barrel because aside from the fact that it is lighter, it also cools down quickly, even after successive shots. Fluting a barrel involves making its surface free of any contours and textures. It is 100% refined and smooth.
Pair it with a 20-inch barrel length, and what you get is enhanced performance in your 6.5 Grendel round.
Material and Durability
While zeroing in on your choice of 6.5 Grendel barrel durability is an important factor to keep in mind. Your barrel should be built to last; one that you can use for years and will easily withstand the demands of different environments.
Look at the choice of materials used in crafting the barrel. Stainless steel, carbon fiber, aircraft-grade aluminum, and titanium are known for their resilience and toughness.
Shooting outdoors means that your barrel will also be exposed to moisture and water, so consider the material’s ability to resist rust and corrosion. Stainless steel is a popular option today. Not only is it tough but it is also known to last for a very long time, even in its untreated form. Additionally, the heat dispersion rate of stainless steel is higher compared to other materials, contributing to its longevity.
Aside from the actual material used, you also have to consider the barrel’s protective covering, so this is where the finish comes in.
6.5 Grendel vs. 6.5 Creedmoor: Which Is Right For You?
Both the 6.5 and 6.5 are excellent choices for small to medium-sized game at short to mid-range distances. Both can improve your performance and overall accuracy under ideal circumstances.
Go for the 6.5 Creedmoor if you are into hunting for anything bigger than a deer. With its ballistics almost sharing the same properties as the 6.5 Swede that Scandinavian hunters use for hunting moose, the 6.5 Creedmoor is more appropriate for bigger animals.
The 6.5 Creedmoor utilizes heavier bullets and comes with a higher density compared to a 6.5 Grendel. This is also the ideal choice if you are looking for ammo that is easier to find and cheaper than other bullets on the market.
If you are after a cartridge for longer yardages in the open countries, then both the Creedmoor and Grendel will do a fine job, but the Creedmoor offers you a flatter trajectory with lesser drift and more power.
However, the 6.5 Grendel is your complete must-have if you want to hunt and shoot with your AR-15 or other semi-automatic rifles. If you also want a low recoil cartridge, then you better go with the Grendel.
Overall, both the 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.5 Grendel are dependable, durable, and reliable rifle cartridges, but they are designed with different objectives in mind. Their differences are notable in many aspects.
Your decision of which between these two is right for you would purely be based on your needs as a hunter and the circumstances that you see in the future using either a Grendel or a Creedmoor.
So long as you have an excellent hunting rifle, the perfect cartridge that the rifle is chambered for, and quality bullets, let’s not discount your skills here, then either of the two would serve their purpose very well.
What Grendel Barrel Would We Buy?
Hands down, the Faxon Firearm AR-15 6.5 Grendel Heavy Profile is indeed hard to beat.
The barrel is truly value for your money with a price tag that is considered reasonable. Made of 416R steel construction with a rust-resistant finish and a 5R bullet rifling for guaranteed accuracy and precision. It serves its purpose efficiently and looks exceptionally sleek too.
