11.5" 1:5 GUNNER PROFILE BLACKFAXON AR15 BARREL 338 ARC
The Faxon Firearms 11.5" 1:5 Gunner Profile AR15 barrel in 338 ARC splits the difference between two proven designs: the durability of a Government profile and the nimble handling of a Pencil profile. Built in Cincinnati from 416-R Stainless steel, this barrel brings the balance point closer to your body, cutting fatigue during long days of training, hunting, or range work. Whether you're building a compact, handy AR or looking to maximize your 338 ARC's potential in an efficient package, the Gunner profile delivers the versatility serious shooters demand.
Faxon's manufacturing process prioritizes precision from the start. Each barrel is button rifled, stress relieved, air-gauge tested, and individually headspaced with precision PTG gauges. The 11-degree target crown and Black Nitride finish ensure accuracy and corrosion resistance. All barrels undergo magnetic particle inspection to catch subsurface defects before they leave the shop—a detail that separates production-line rifles from purpose-built guns.
This barrel runs a pistol-length gas system with a .750" gas block journal and 1.9" journal length, fits standard M4 extensions, and threads at 5/8x24 for common muzzle devices. The 1:5 twist is optimized for 338 ARC, and Faxon recommends Duramag magazines designed for 400 Legend for reliable feeding. As with any upper receiver swap, verify compatibility with your lower and consider consulting a gunsmith if you're pairing this with ammunition that requires specific feed ramp geometry.
Key Features
- Gunner profile: balanced blend of durability and light weight for reduced shooter fatigue
- 416-R Stainless steel construction with Black Nitride finish for corrosion resistance and longevity
- Button rifled, stress relieved, and air-gauge tested for consistent accuracy
- 11-degree target crown maximizes accuracy potential
- Individually headspaced and magnetic particle inspected
- Pistol-length gas system; M4 extension and 5/8x24 muzzle threads
- Optimized 1:5 twist for 338 ARC cartridge
Specifications
| Barrel Length | 11.5" |
| Caliber | 338 ARC |
| Twist Rate | 1:5 |
| Barrel Profile | Gunner |
| Material | 416-R Stainless Steel |
| Rifling | Button Rifled |
| Finish | Black Nitride |
| Gas System | Pistol |
| Gas Block Diameter | .750" |
| Gas Block Journal Length | 1.9" |
| Barrel Extension | M4 |
| Muzzle Thread | 5/8x24 |
| Crown Style | 11-degree Target Crown |
| Inspection | Magnetic Particle Inspected |
Frequently Asked Questions
What magazines work best with this 338 ARC barrel?
Faxon recommends Duramag magazines designed for 400 Legend for reliable feeding with this barrel. Always verify magazine compatibility with your complete upper and ammunition before hitting the range or field.
Will this barrel work with any AR15 upper receiver?
The barrel uses an M4 extension and standard 5/8x24 threads, so it's compatible with most modern AR15 uppers. However, some upper receiver feed ramps may require adjustment for optimal function, particularly with certain ammunition loads. Consult a qualified gunsmith if you encounter feeding issues after installation.
Why choose the Gunner profile over other barrel profiles?
The Gunner profile combines the structural durability of a Government profile with the weight savings and handling advantage of a Pencil profile. The result is a barrel that balances toward your body rather than downrange, reducing shooter fatigue during extended training, hunting, or range sessions while maintaining strength and accuracy.
Is this a match-grade barrel?
Faxon manufactures this as part of their Match Series for 338 ARC. Each barrel is stress relieved, air-gauge tested, headspaced individually with precision PTG gauges, and magnetic particle inspected. The 11-degree target crown and controlled manufacturing process support consistent accuracy, though like any firearm component, final performance depends on your complete setup and ammunition selection.

