Description
The .22 ARC has quickly earned a reputation as one of the flattest-shooting cartridges you can run in a standard AR-15, and this Faxon barrel is built to get the most out of it. Chambered in .22 ARC with a 1:7 twist, it's dialed in to stabilize the heavy-for-caliber, high-BC bullets that make this round shine, giving you tighter groups and better wind resistance out at distance without stepping up to a larger caliber. The 16-inch length keeps things maneuverable while still delivering plenty of velocity for a do-it-all rifle.
What the Gunner Profile Brings to the Table
The Gunner contour is Faxon's answer to the age-old tug-of-war between a lightweight pencil barrel and a stiffer government profile. It blends the two, trimming weight while shifting the balance point back toward your body. That translates to a rifle that handles quicker and feels less nose-heavy during long range sessions, training days, or a full day of hunting. If you've ever fought barrel droop on a heavy contour, you'll appreciate the difference.
Build Quality on the Faxon Match Series Barrel
Machined 100% in-house in Ohio from 416-R stainless steel, this barrel features 5R button rifling, a hybrid style that puts lands opposite grooves with softer angles. The payoff is reduced jacket deformation, a slight velocity bump, and a bore that's noticeably easier to clean. Every barrel gets a Salt Bath Nitride treatment inside and out for corrosion resistance and extended life, and each one is Magnetic Particle Inspected to catch any flaws before it ships. The recessed target crown protects the rifling right where it matters most for accuracy.
Fitment Notes for Your .22 ARC Build
The M4 barrel extension is coated in Nickel Teflon, which adds dry lubricity and tightens up the fit between the extension and your upper receiver for a more consistent lockup. It runs a rifle-length gas system for a smooth, soft-shooting impulse and comes with 1/2×28 muzzle threads. Keep in mind the .22 ARC headspaces off a 6.5 Grendel bolt and BCG, so plan your parts list accordingly when you spec out the rest of the build.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Faxon Firearms
- Model: Match Series
- Manufacturer Part Number: 15B22A7R16NGQ-5R-NP3
- UPC: 816341028043
- Caliber: .22 ARC
- Barrel Length: 16"
- Twist Rate: 1:7
- Profile: Gunner
- Rifling: 5R Button Rifled
- Material: 416-R Stainless Steel
- Finish: Salt Bath Nitride (inside and out)
- Gas System: Rifle-Length
- Muzzle Threads: 1/2×28
- Barrel Extension: M4 with Nickel Teflon Coating
- Crown: Recessed Target Crown
- Platform: AR-15
What’s Included
- Faxon Match Series Gunner 16" .22 ARC barrel
Frequently Asked Questions
What bolt does the Faxon .22 ARC barrel require?
The .22 ARC headspaces off a 6.5 Grendel bolt and bolt carrier group, so you'll need that bolt to run this barrel. It's essentially the 6mm ARC case necked down, which is why it shares Grendel bolt geometry. Aside from the bolt and barrel, the round works in a standard AR-15 upper.
Why choose the Gunner profile on this 16" barrel?
The Gunner contour splits the difference between a lightweight pencil profile and a beefier government profile. It keeps overall weight down while pulling the balance point rearward toward the shooter, which cuts down on fatigue during long strings of fire. That makes it a solid all-around pick for range work, training, and hunting.
What kind of accuracy and range does the .22 ARC deliver?
The .22 ARC was engineered around modern high-BC .224 bullets, typically in the 70 to 80 grain range, which resist wind drift and hold energy well downrange. It generally runs faster than .223/5.56 with comparable bullet weights, giving you flatter trajectories and extended effective range. Paired with this 1:7 twist barrel, it's a genuine long-range performer on the AR-15 platform.
Is a 16-inch barrel long enough to get good performance from .22 ARC?
Yes, 16 inches is a practical choice for shooters who want a lighter, more maneuverable rifle while still taking advantage of the cartridge's efficiency. You'll give up a bit of velocity compared to a 20 to 24 inch barrel, but the tradeoff is a handier setup. If maximum downrange performance is your top priority, a longer barrel is worth considering.







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