Timber Creek Tc556Med105 5.56 Nato 10.50" Black Nitride

The Timber Creek TC556MED105 is a 5.56 NATO rifle barrel built for shooters who want to swap out a shorter or worn upper without the hassle of a complete rebuild. This 10.50-inch barrel gives you a compact profile while maintaining the ballistic foundation of the most common intermediate rifle cartridge in America. Whether you're setting up a lightweight CQB build, an SBR (short-barreled rifle), or just refreshing an existing upper receiver, a quality replacement barrel from a reputable manufacturer like Timber Creek Outdoors is the smart move.

Black nitride finish is the go-to surface treatment for modern rifle barrels. It offers rust and corrosion resistance that stands up to hunting, range sessions, and tactical use without the brittleness of old-school bluing. The nitride process hardens the steel surface, which means better wear resistance downrange and easier cleanup when you hit the range or field. For a barrel that'll handle hard use and still look professional years down the road, this finish does the job.

At 10.50 inches, this barrel sits in the sweet spot for AR platforms where you want maneuverability without sacrificing too much velocity or sight radius. It's the kind of length that works for home defense builds, close-to-medium range training, and compact hunting rigs. Before ordering, confirm your upper receiver is set up for barrel installation and that local and federal regulations permit the overall length of your finished firearm—especially if you're in a state with SBR restrictions.

Key Features

• 5.56 NATO chamber for compatibility with standard intermediate rifle ammunition
• 10.50-inch length optimized for compact, maneuverable builds
• Black nitride finish resists corrosion and wear
• Suitable for AR-platform upper receivers

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this barrel compatible with my AR-15 upper receiver?

This barrel is designed for AR-platform upper receivers chambered in 5.56 NATO. Confirm your upper is set up for barrel installation and that the chamber is compatible with 5.56 NATO ammunition. If you're unsure, reach out to our team—we can help you confirm fitment.

What's included with this barrel?

You're receiving the barrel itself. Installation into your upper receiver may require additional components (such as a barrel nut, depending on your build) and professional armorer installation if you're not equipped to do it yourself.

Is a 10.50-inch barrel legal where I live?

Barrel length regulations vary by state and federal jurisdiction. Short-barreled rifles (barrels under 16 inches) may require an NFA tax stamp and registration with the ATF in most states, or may be prohibited entirely. Always verify your local and state laws before purchasing or assembling a short-barrel rifle.

How does black nitride compare to other barrel finishes?

Black nitride is a case-hardening process that strengthens the steel surface, offering strong corrosion and wear resistance with a professional appearance. It's a popular choice for duty and hunting barrels because it balances durability, low maintenance, and longevity better than traditional bluing.