06-05-2015, 09:27 PM
(This post was last modified: 06-05-2015, 09:37 PM by NugginFutz.)
The three you mention all have the potential to shoot well, and I'm admittedly biased toward the Black Hole Weaponry barrels. I already own 2, and I've got an 18" BHW 264LBC on order now. Without bolt, a BHW is about $200, including discounts. These are 3P polygonal barrels, which tend to shoot a little faster than most other conventionally rifled barrels, so it's like getting another invisible 2".
Mark with Precision Firearms is also selling BHW barrels (with bolt) for about $300 (?) - difference is these are chambered with a true SAAMI Grendel reamer, whereas all the ones you mentioned are either 264LBC (BHW) or something similar. None have the Grendel's distinctive Compound Throat. This is relevant mainly because the straight necked variations can be somewhat finicky about what they like to shoot well (mine included). In contrast, most of the hand loaders with true SAAMI chambers seem to get their accuracy loads fairly quickly.
Finally, don't overlook the very real possibility of shooting what you have while you save up a little extra for what you want. I'm talking about a barrel from Lilja or Performance Firearms. Off the rack budget stuff is ok for plinking, but if you really want something you want your picture taken with, spend some extra cash - it's nearly always worth it.
Mark with Precision Firearms is also selling BHW barrels (with bolt) for about $300 (?) - difference is these are chambered with a true SAAMI Grendel reamer, whereas all the ones you mentioned are either 264LBC (BHW) or something similar. None have the Grendel's distinctive Compound Throat. This is relevant mainly because the straight necked variations can be somewhat finicky about what they like to shoot well (mine included). In contrast, most of the hand loaders with true SAAMI chambers seem to get their accuracy loads fairly quickly.
Finally, don't overlook the very real possibility of shooting what you have while you save up a little extra for what you want. I'm talking about a barrel from Lilja or Performance Firearms. Off the rack budget stuff is ok for plinking, but if you really want something you want your picture taken with, spend some extra cash - it's nearly always worth it.