Description
The FN 20-100038 gives you the durability and dependability that comes with choosing a barrel from a manufacturer that's been perfecting bore-making for decades. Made from U.S.-sourced Chrome Moly Venadium per military standards, this button-rifled barrel is chrome-lined for maximum service life and corrosion resistance. Every barrel passes High Pressure Testing (HPT) and Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) at the factory, so you know you're getting a consistent, structurally sound component.
What Makes This FN Mid-Length Barrel Reliable
The 14.7" length with mid-length gas system hits a sweet spot for shooters who want a compact rifle without sacrificing reliability. The chrome-lined bore and chamber resist fouling and heat erosion, meaning you can run higher round counts without worrying about throat erosion eating into your accuracy the way non-lined barrels do. M4-style feed ramps keep ammunition feeding smoothly, and the 1:7 right-hand twist handles everything from lighter 55-grain loads to heavier 77-grain match ammunition.
Built for the Field
The matte black manganese phosphate finish provides external corrosion protection for rough use and field conditions. The 1/2×28 threaded muzzle accepts standard suppressors or flash hiders. This is a no-nonsense barrel designed around actual combat and duty use rather than bench precision, which means it delivers solid 1.5 to 2 MOA accuracy while prioritizing long-term durability and low maintenance.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: FN America / FN Herstal
- Model Number: 20-100038
- UPC: 845737008451
- Caliber: .223 Remington / 5.56 NATO
- Barrel Length: 14.7 inches
- Profile: M16 Government Profile
- Gas System: Mid-Length
- Rifling Type: Button Rifled
- Twist Rate: 1 in 7 inches, Right-Hand
- Bore & Chamber: Chrome-Lined
- Material: Chrome Moly Vanadium per Mil-B-11595E
- Exterior Finish: Matte Black Manganese Phosphate
- Muzzle Thread Pattern: 1/2 x 28
- Feed Ramps: M4-Style
- Testing: High Pressure Tested (HPT) and Magnetic Particle Inspected (MPI)
- Weight: 1.85 pounds
What’s Included
- FN 14.7" Mid-Length Chrome-Lined Barrel
Frequently Asked Questions
What ammunition does this barrel shoot?
This FN barrel is chambered for both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammunition. The 1:7 twist rate is ideal for stabilizing heavier projectiles like 62 to 77-grain ammunition, though it performs reliably across the standard range including lighter 55-grain loads.
Is this barrel chrome-lined, and what does that mean for performance?
Yes, the bore and chamber are both chrome-lined. Chrome-lining creates a harder surface that resists gas cutting and heat erosion, which significantly extends barrel life compared to non-lined barrels. This also makes the barrel easier to clean and more forgiving of dirty or steel-case ammunition. You'll trade a small amount of potential precision accuracy for much longer service life and reduced maintenance.
Will this FN barrel fit my AR-15?
This barrel has the M16 government profile and is designed for any standard AR-15 upper receiver. The mid-length gas system and 1/2×28 threading are mil-spec compatible. You'll want to have a qualified gunsmith install the barrel to ensure proper torque and headspace.
What's the difference between this barrel and stainless steel barrels?
Chrome-lined barrels like this one last longer under hard use and handle sustained fire better, but stainless barrels tend to shoot tighter groups for precision work. FN's chrome-lined design is built for reliability and durability in field conditions, making it ideal if you plan to shoot higher volumes or in harsh environments. Stainless barrels are generally the choice for bench shooters chasing sub-MOA accuracy.





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