Faxon
Faxon Firearms is a Cincinnati, Ohio manufacturer specializing in precision barrels and bolt carrier groups for the AR-15 and AR-10 platforms. Faxon is best known for their GUNNER profile barrel — a lightweight fluted design that reduces weight over a government-profile barrel while maintaining rigidity — and their Flame Fluted series that brings distinctive aesthetics to their barrel lineup. Faxon barrels are made from 416R stainless or 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium with a QPQ nitride or stainless finish, and are used by builders who want match-grade accuracy at competitive prices.
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Faxon GUNNER Profile Barrels
The Faxon GUNNER profile is Faxon’s most popular barrel — a hybrid profile that reduces weight in areas that don’t affect rigidity (removing material from the barrel flats between the gas block and muzzle) while maintaining a heavier profile at the chamber and under the gas block where support is critical. The result is a barrel lighter than a government or SOCOM profile but stiffer than a pencil profile, making it a popular choice for builders who want to reduce rifle weight without sacrificing accuracy or durability.
Faxon Bolt Carrier Groups
Faxon produces bolt carrier groups in their enhanced Carpenter 158 steel bolt with NiB (nickel boron), DLC (diamond-like carbon), or nitride finishes. The enhanced BCG adds a properly staked gas key, M16 profile carrier, and improved extractor spring. For builders who want a quality BCG to pair with a Faxon barrel, their matched sets simplify selection and ensure compatible headspacing.
Caliber Options
Faxon produces barrels in 5.56 NATO, .223 Wylde, .300 Blackout, 6.5 Grendel, 6mm ARC, .224 Valkyrie, and .308 Winchester among others. The .300 Blackout and 6mm ARC lines are particularly comprehensive — Faxon offers multiple lengths and profiles optimized for suppressed and unsuppressed use in each caliber.
Frequently Asked Questions: Faxon Firearms
Are Faxon barrels accurate?
Yes — Faxon barrels consistently deliver sub-MOA accuracy in independent testing with quality match ammunition. Their 5R rifling (5 lands and grooves with angled transitions rather than sharp corners) reduces bullet deformation and fouling compared to traditional 6-groove rifling. For precision builders, Faxon is a strong value option compared to premium barrel makers at higher price points.
What is the difference between QPQ nitride and stainless?
QPQ (Quench-Polish-Quench) nitride is a heat treatment that diffuses nitrogen into the steel surface, creating a hard, corrosion-resistant layer without adding dimension. It is very durable and easy to clean but produces a matte black finish. Stainless barrels offer slightly better corrosion resistance in saltwater environments and a distinctive appearance. For most use cases, QPQ nitride is the practical choice; stainless is preferred for its aesthetics and in coastal/wet environments.
See Also: AR-15 Parts • Barrels • AR-15 Rifles • 5.56 Ammo • .300 Blackout Ammo