ARP- I've owned two (one melonite and one plain chrome-moly I think). Neither were 223 / 556.
Shilen UltraMatch (Shilen blanks)- I've owned at least three. One was 223 Wylde.
Criterion- I currently own four (three chrome-lined and one stainless). Two are 223 Wylde.
In general...
ARP barrels have produced fast velocities, but not quite the same accuracy that I've experienced with the other two brands.
The Rainer UM's have shown a slight edge in accuracy, though not sure about the longevity of Shilen blanks. (Don't know which blanks they use in their Select barrels- maybe BHW?)
Criterion is my favorite of the bunch. Impressive accuracy, with good anticipated longevity with the chrome-lined bores. (Barrels can sometimes be found at Brownells and Fulton Armory, and also purchased direct from Criterion.)
All of 'em would likely serve nicely. Your decision might boil down to availability.
Shilen UltraMatch (Shilen blanks)- I've owned at least three. One was 223 Wylde.
Criterion- I currently own four (three chrome-lined and one stainless). Two are 223 Wylde.
In general...
ARP barrels have produced fast velocities, but not quite the same accuracy that I've experienced with the other two brands.
The Rainer UM's have shown a slight edge in accuracy, though not sure about the longevity of Shilen blanks. (Don't know which blanks they use in their Select barrels- maybe BHW?)
Criterion is my favorite of the bunch. Impressive accuracy, with good anticipated longevity with the chrome-lined bores. (Barrels can sometimes be found at Brownells and Fulton Armory, and also purchased direct from Criterion.)
All of 'em would likely serve nicely. Your decision might boil down to availability.
Drifter