Description
The Ballistic Advantage BA Hanson 13.7-inch barrel is one of those parts that punches well above its price. It runs the proprietary Hanson profile, which shifts a bit of mass from the muzzle end toward the chamber so the balance sits closer to the center of the rifle. In plain terms, that means less barrel whip and a smoother feel when you're running strings of fire, without carrying around the extra ounces of a heavy government profile.
What Sets the BA Hanson Profile Apart
The 13.7-inch length paired with a mid-length gas system is a sweet spot for a compact 5.56 build. The mid-length dwell time softens the impulse and takes some abuse off the internals compared to a carbine gas setup, so cycling stays smooth and the gun feels a touch more civilized on the shoulder. It's chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO with a 1:7 twist, which stabilizes everything from lightweight 55-grain plinking loads up through heavier 77-grain match and defensive rounds.
Build Quality on the 13.7 Hanson Barrel
This one is machined from 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium steel and treated with Ballistic Advantage's QPQ corrosion-resistant nitride finish, inside and out, for a hard surface that shrugs off wear and holds up to heat. The barrel extension carries a nickel boron coated M4 feed ramp extension from FailZero, which keeps feeding slick and reliable. Every barrel is HP (high pressure) and MPI (magnetic particle inspected) tested before it leaves the shop, so you know the blank is sound before you ever torque it into an upper.
Getting the 13.7 BA Hanson to 16 Inches
A nice bonus here is the included pinned low-profile gas block, which saves you the headache of aligning and securing your own. Since this barrel measures under 16 inches, most folks running it on a standard rifle build permanently attach a muzzle device to bring the total length out to 16 inches. Something like an SOLGW NOX or a longer flash hider does the trick and gives you a handy, maneuverable carbine that still shoots like a full-size rig.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ballistic Advantage
- Model: Performance Series
- Manufacturer Part Number: BABL556036F
- UPC: 819747020833
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
- Barrel Length: 13.7"
- Profile: BA Hanson
- Material: 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium (CrMoV) Steel
- Finish: QPQ Corrosion Resistant Nitride
- Twist Rate: 1:7
- Gas System: Mid-Length
- Muzzle Thread: 1/2×28
- Feed Ramp: Nickel Boron Coated Extended M4 Feed Ramp Extension
- Testing: HP and MPI Tested
- Platform: AR-15
- Weight: Approx. 25 oz
What’s Included
- Ballistic Advantage BA Hanson 13.7" 5.56 barrel
- Pinned low-profile gas block
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the BA Hanson 13.7 barrel come with a gas block?
Yes. Every Hanson series barrel ships with a low-profile gas block that comes pinned in place from Ballistic Advantage. That saves you the alignment work and gets you closer to a finished upper right out of the box. You'll still need to supply your own gas tube and handguard.
How do I get a 13.7 inch barrel to 16 inches?
Since this barrel is under 16 inches, most builders permanently attach a muzzle device to reach a 16-inch overall length, typically by pinning and welding it. A longer flash hider or a device like the SOLGW NOX is a popular pairing that brings it right to or just past 16 inches. Plan the muzzle device before you finalize your handguard length.
What bullet weights work best with the 1:7 twist?
The 1:7 twist is the most versatile rate for 5.56, stabilizing everything from 55-grain range ammo up through heavier 69 to 77-grain match and defensive loads. If you plan to run heavier projectiles or shoot at distance, this twist has you covered. Lighter varmint bullets run fine too.
Is the Hanson barrel good for a hard-use or duty build?
It's a solid mid-tier option built from 4150 CrMoV steel with a durable QPQ nitride finish, and each barrel is HP and MPI tested for peace of mind. The mid-length gas system keeps recoil smooth and eases wear on the action. Keep in mind these barrels are not designed to run aftermarket piston kits, so they're built around a standard direct impingement setup.





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