Faxon Firearms Duty Series 15A58R20NGQ 5.56mm 20" Gunner Nitride Rifle
- Finish-Color:
- QPQ Black Nitride
- Barrel Length:
- 20"
- Caliber-Gauge:
- 223 Remington / 5.56 NATO
- Length:
- 20"
- Barrel Type:
- Button Rifled
- Model:
- Duty Series
- Twist:
- 1:8"
The Faxon Firearms Duty Series 5.56mm 20" Gunner Nitride rifle barrel is a purpose-built replacement barrel for shooters who want the best of both worlds: the rugged durability of a full government profile with the speed and handling of a lighter pencil design. Engineered and manufactured in Cincinnati, Ohio, this barrel combines thoughtful geometry with uncompromising quality control, making it a solid choice for rifle builders, competition shooters, and hunters who demand accuracy and reliability without unnecessary weight.
The Gunner profile is Faxon's answer to finding the sweet spot between a heavy, durable profile and a nimble, fast-handling one. That balance translates to less fatigue during long range sessions, training days, or extended hunting trips—your shoulders will thank you by day two. Built from certified 4150 Mil-Spec steel and finished inside and out in Nitride, this barrel is stress relieved and air-gauge tested at the factory. Every barrel is individually headspaced using precision PTG gauges and crowned to a 11-degree target spec to support consistent accuracy downrange.
The 1:8 twist rate runs the 20-inch length as a rifle-gas system, making this barrel compatible with standard AR-15 platforms in 5.56 NATO. The 1/2-28 muzzle thread accepts industry-standard suppressors and muzzle devices. Whether you're building a recce rifle, a lightweight hunting rig, or a do-it-all training upper, Faxon's attention to materials and process—button rifling, stress relief, multiple test passes—delivers accuracy and durability that punches above the price point.
Key Features
- Gunner profile balances the durability of government profile with the lighter weight and maneuverability of pencil design
- Manufactured and stress relieved in-house in Cincinnati, Ohio
- Individually headspaced and inspected with precision PTG gauges
- 11-degree target crowned for superior accuracy potential
- Nitride finish inside and out for corrosion resistance and durability
- Button rifled 4150 Mil-Spec steel construction
- Rifle-length gas system
- 1/2-28 threaded muzzle for suppressors and muzzle devices
Specifications
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Barrel Profile | Gunner |
| Twist Rate | 1:8 |
| Material | 4150 Mil-Spec steel |
| Rifling | Button rifled |
| Gas System | Rifle length |
| Inside Finish | Nitride |
| Outside Finish | Nitride |
| Muzzle Thread | 1/2-28 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this barrel fit my AR-15 upper receiver?
Yes, the Faxon Gunner barrel is a standard AR-15 replacement barrel in 5.56 NATO with a rifle-length gas system and 1/2-28 muzzle thread. It will fit any AR-15 upper receiver designed for standard 5.56 NATO barrels, provided your lower is properly assembled and headspaced.
What suppressors and muzzle devices will work with this barrel?
The 1/2-28 muzzle thread is the standard AR-15 specification. It accepts any suppressor, flash hider, compensator, or other muzzle device threaded for 1/2-28.
How is the Gunner profile different from a standard government or pencil barrel?
The Gunner profile is a hybrid designed to blend the ruggedness and durability of the government profile with the lighter weight and faster handling of the pencil profile. This balance reduces fatigue during extended shooting, training, or hunting sessions while maintaining the strength you need for reliable performance.
Why is individual headspacing and testing important?
Faxon headspaces every barrel individually using precision PTG gauges to ensure proper fit and reliable feeding and extraction. Combined with stress relief, air-gauge testing, and button rifling, this process supports accuracy and the barrel's long-term durability and consistency.

