Aero Precision has become a significant player in the AR-15 market, offering a wide range of parts and complete rifles. But are their barrels any good? The short answer is: it depends. Aero Precision barrels offer a decent balance of quality and price, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious builders and shooters. However, they aren't universally considered the best on the market, and their suitability depends heavily on your intended use and expectations.
Aero Precision Barrel Quality: A Deeper Dive
Aero Precision manufactures barrels in various profiles, materials, and lengths, catering to a broad spectrum of applications. Their entry-level barrels are generally chrome-moly (CM) steel, while higher-end options utilize stainless steel. This affects performance and longevity.
Pros:
- Price: Aero Precision barrels are generally more affordable than those from higher-end manufacturers like Criterion or Ballistic Advantage. This makes them an attractive option for budget builds.
- Availability: Aero Precision barrels are widely available from numerous online retailers and gun shops, ensuring easy accessibility.
- Consistency (Generally): While not perfect, Aero Precision maintains a reasonable level of consistency in their manufacturing processes. You're less likely to encounter major defects compared to some lesser-known brands.
- Variety: They offer a wide selection of barrel profiles, lengths, and chamberings, allowing builders to customize their AR-15s to their specific needs.
Cons:
- Not Top-Tier Accuracy: Compared to premium barrels, Aero Precision barrels typically won't achieve the same level of pinpoint accuracy. This isn't necessarily a deal-breaker for most shooters, especially those prioritizing reliability and affordability over extreme precision.
- Material Variations: The quality can vary somewhat depending on the specific barrel and material used. Their chrome-moly barrels are generally adequate for recreational shooting, but stainless steel options tend to be more durable and accurate.
- Finish: Some users have reported minor issues with the finish of Aero Precision barrels, though this is not a universal complaint.
Aero Precision Barrels: Which Ones Are Best?
Aero Precision's barrel lineup is extensive. To determine if an Aero Precision barrel is "good" for you, consider the following:
Intended Use:
- Casual Shooting/Home Defense: A standard Aero Precision chrome-moly barrel will likely suffice for most recreational shooting and home defense scenarios. Accuracy won't be top-tier, but it should be reliable and sufficiently accurate for these purposes.
- Competition: For serious competition shooting, where precision is paramount, consider investing in a higher-end barrel from a manufacturer known for its accuracy. Aero Precision barrels may not meet the demanding requirements of competitive shooting.
- Heavy Use: If you anticipate shooting thousands of rounds annually, a stainless steel barrel from Aero Precision or a higher-end manufacturer will provide better longevity and resistance to wear.
Barrel Material:
- Chrome Moly (CM) Steel: More affordable, but may not offer the same lifespan or accuracy as stainless steel. Suitable for casual shooting.
- Stainless Steel: More durable and accurate than chrome-moly steel, making it a better choice for frequent shooting and demanding applications.
Conclusion: Are Aero Precision Barrels Right for You?
Aero Precision barrels provide a solid value proposition for many AR-15 builders. They offer a decent combination of quality and affordability, making them a suitable choice for casual shooters and budget-conscious builders. However, those seeking the highest levels of accuracy or requiring a barrel for heavy use should consider higher-end options. Carefully consider your intended use, budget, and expectations before making a purchasing decision. Remember, proper barrel selection is just one part of building a reliable and accurate AR-15. Other components like the gas system, bolt carrier group, and handguard all play a significant role in overall performance.
