1:8 .223/5.556 for axis

[Lorenzo]

New to after market barrels, whats a good after market for an axis, 20" 1:8 .223/5.556? heavier contour.

[darkker]

Same that is good for any other rifle, and the same rules apply.
As long as you stay out of someones garage, there really are no "bad" barrel makers. Everyone has rockstars, everyone lets a turd slip out.

The masses at large aren't good enough to honestly know the difference between a "entry level" Vs. Christ's left hand. So support the company that you like, or that offers something you can afford.
The "worst" ER shaw that I have, which came with a tight-spot near the bore; will hold MOA at a mile. And lets be honest, if $250-450 is the end of the road for your wallet, you aren't concerned about absolute precision anyway.

Choose and enjoy.

Cheers

[CavReconScout]

I have a 1:8 Criterion Savage varmint profile with a Match 223 chamber that shoots 80gr Noslers great. Bought it from NSS, Jim was great to deal with. I have attended one class with it, and finished 4th at my first local 600yd PRS type match. It's a sample size of one, but I am building a 6.5 for next year and plan to use another Criterion. Here's a picture of a fly I shot at 100yds during barrel break in (I gotta brag a little ;-):

http://i1331.photobucket.com/albums/w581/jrm5787/Mobile%20Uploads/A20E78A4-6513-4A13-9D0F-5286A6A84BF1_zpsjzobgfh3.jpg

[devildogandboy]

excellent shot!!

Bruce

[GaCop]

Over the years I've had excellent service from Criterion barrels in 223, 223AI, 6mm Norma BR, 30-06, 280AI and 308. Personally, I'd go with a 24" barrel in the 223 flavor. The 1 in 8" twist will shoot up to the 80 grain bullet very well out to 1k if your only punching paper.

[icker96]

I just got to shoot my new Apache Gun Works 26" .223 Heavy contour 1:8 twist barrel today. I was extremely happy with how it shot, and Jim offered exceptional customer service. These are today's target doing load workups.


http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/nite-mare/a509feec-82a5-4514-b74f-fa4592350adb_zpsengxu0yf.jpg (http://s25.photobucket.com/user/nite-mare/media/a509feec-82a5-4514-b74f-fa4592350adb_zpsengxu0yf.jpg.html)