Wylde Chamber Helps Maximize Performance With .223 Or 5.56 Ammo
Precision-machined stainless steel barrels feature a .223 Wylde chamber that helps maximize the long-range performance of your AR-15 with both .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition. With 6-groove, 1-7" button rifling for accuracy and M4-type feed ramps for reliable feeding, these barrels help you reach out to distant targets with issued or magazine-length ammunition. The 18" barrels offer the Special Purpose Rifle (SPR) profile designed to optimize accuracy out to 600 meters, and are available with Mid-Length or Rifle-Length gas systems. SDM barrel features a heavy, fluted profile under the handguards, for added strength and rigidity. Threaded muzzle accepts a variety of compensators or flash suppressors.
Customer ratings for WHITE OAK ARMAMENT 18" MID-LENGTH SPR BARREL
Number of ratings: 44
From brownells.com: 44
Average rating: 4.5
Very pleased(22/12/2016)
Sub-MOA groupings at 100 yards on my new RECCE style build. Beautiful fluting and finish on my barrel. I would highly recommend to any prospective buyers. Perfect for a light weight, precision rifle.
My barrel was finished by WOA in June of 2005. I put it in an upper that went to the sandbox with my Godson. Out of his battalion, he scored #1 for accuracy during his pre deployment work-up. It held up to a fair amount of full auto usage. I got it back, and built a Recce type rifle around this barrel, a Larue railed handguard, and a Rock River Arms trigger. These barrels are a nice, tight fit in DPMS, and Aero Precision uppers; no shimming is necessary. No need for loctite (which would soon degrade under the heat stress any way. The gas seal with a Larue low profile gas block is exceptional. I keep this gun cleaned and lubed; it has never hiccuped once, even with a suppressor screwed on. I treated the barrel to a coat of Cerakote (sniper gray), and it will go back to being my primary means of self defense. With the fluting, it should be even better balanced. If you want to build a hard use Recce rifle, here is your barrel. It is all that. .7 MOA groups day in and day out.
WOA SPR BARREL(12/09/2013)
White Oak Armament is top notch, I bought my first WOA SPR barrel staight from them with a bead blasted finish, I fell in love with the performance of the barrel, I ordered a second WOA SPR barrel from brownells. I sent it to WOA for bead blasting.
If you are looking for top notch accuracy and performance you can't go wrong with WOA. John stands by his product.
Outstanding Barrel(26/04/2014)
Used this barrel on a MAG Tactical billet Magnesium upper/lower set in dark earth color. Stock and pistolgrip were Magpul dark earth with a full length Troy foream using low profile gas block. The lightweight but strong magnesium receiver and other carefully chosen parts turned out a rifle weighing exactly 7.5 pounds. The heavy profile of the barrel put more weight forward of center and with muzzle break setting rifle on sandbag rest and pulling trigger with string the rifle sits level and does not move rearward at all. No muzzle rise, virtually no recoil result from weight distribution. Once barrel was broken in properly it immediately was shooting under an inch at 100 yards with all loads including mil surplus. Without working up any loads for it yet, with a random box of 77 grain bullets 5 shot groups of 1/2" were common. With one box of 80 grain pills shot a 3/8" 100 yard group. Can't wait to see what it will do once work up a taylored load. Be sure to break in properly, put on quality build and own your little corner of the world. Only shot out to 250 yards thus far but bullets falling in right at an inch at that distance. Will buy another soon.
Great match barrel(26/07/2014)
Mounted this barrel on a Arrow Arms receiver sold here at Brownells and what a shooter it turned out to be. Used the DPMS free float handguard and a Leupod VX-1 3x9 scope to top it off and not even a hundred rounds shot through it yet and getting 3/8 inch one hole 5 shot groups at 100 yards! This barrel loves Sierra 69 Gr. match kings with Varget powder. Going to use it for the CMP high power match. Move over boys, there's a new kid in town.
Update range report(31/07/2014)
Great barrel for match shooting. 3/8" group at 100 yrds. 55 Gr. Nosler BT and Benchmark powder. To the person that gave thumbs down, what a putz!
Top end in my book(14/12/2014)
Started with 75gr BTHP hornady match just to see what it would do. Wasnt to bad. Tried 68gr BTHP hornady match next and wow all 5 shots were touching at 100 yds with a 10x fixed Swfa ss scope. Very impresive with factory loads.
great barrel(20/01/2015)
This barrel is a great buy. 5/16 inch center to center, 3 shot group at 100 yards using factory Hornady .223 68gr match ammo. The barrel doesn't care for 55 or 75 gr that I fed it, but both still under 1 MOA. Will be buying WOA barrels for future builds.
WOW!(08/02/2015)
Used this barrel on my SPR type build because of the great reviews. It lives up to every one of them. Have only fired it with some 55 grain varmint nightmare low cost hollow points. All I can say is WOW! Can't wait to try some 69 to 77 grain match bullets and work up a load.
Great Barrel(20/02/2015)
This is my first AR-15 barrel that I have used. It seems to be a great barrel. I was on limited funds for my build and this barrel was the only part that I splurged on. I have shot around a hundred rounds out of this barrel. I have only shot CHEAP ammo so far and have had a few sub-moa groups. That is impressive considering I'm shooting the cheapest stuff I can get my hands on, and my trigger and scope sucks. I am really excited to see what it can do with some good reloads, and a better trigger. I did a lot of research prior to buying this barrel. The reason that I went with this over some of the other barrels. Is because I didn't see any negative reviews anywhere. Look around for yourself, I doubt that you can find anyone on any site that badmouths White Oak. In this day and age that is HUGE.
Great Barrel(09/02/2016)
Added this barrel to a high end custom build. First time going with a NON BULL barrel. Was worried how the accuracy would be, but tired of carrying the weight. This barrel was more than I hoped for. 1/2' MOA...Shoots better than I do. My handloaded 40 gr Hornady V-Max 27.3 grains Benchmark powder...Buy it don't look back! Only con...I don't typically use a muzzle break or flash suppressor so if it was available without threading I would have opted for that!
Best money spent in years!(06/07/2016)
I purchased this barrel to replace a 2 MOA (with match grade high end ammo) FN barrel that I originally bought for my first build which is an SPR mk12 type build. I should have bought this barrel from the get go. I am totally floored by the aesthetic looks and workmanship in this barrel and of course by the accuracy! I have it mounted to an Aero precision upper, lighting off the loads with a G2s-e two stage match trigger pulling at about 4.2lbs, and zeroing in with a Trijicon Accupower 3-9x40 scope, just perfect for my tastes. Ill get to the point. Out of 16 different hand loads I put together using Varget and IMR 8208 powder and Some sierra match kings and nosler custom competition bullets, I had seven that shot 1 MOA to .3 MOA. I just ordered some higher end factory loads including blackhills 77 grain mk262 mod 1 to further do some testing and I ordered about a thousand 77 and 69 grain SMKs and TMKs to begin loading up cartridges to hunt and train with. I am very very very happy and I recommend ANYONE who is looking for a good $300 barrel to buy white oak Armament!
Rust on the barrel extension!(31/10/2016)
I really, really wanted to like this barrel, but I just can't. Fit and finish on the barrel itself appeared to be excellent. The barrel extension, however, is a different story. And this is not about just, one, but TWO, different barrels. I ordered the 18" SPR rifle-length-gas barrel, and when I received it, the barrel extension has rust all over it. Actually started pitting. Not the barrel, just all over the extension, except inside, which i expect given enough time would have done the same. Good thing I got the EDGE program, because I definitely made good use of it. Sent the barrel back to be replaced, and the second one I received was in excellent condition. Not a speck of rust to be found on the barrel extension.
Unfortunately I was not able to assemble the rifle right away, and probably a good thing too. After a few months, I noticed very small rust spots on the extension...AGAIN. Cleaned it up with some oil and a brush. Another month goes by, and now there's even more rust, all over, including on the visible part of the lugs. Sent that one back for a full refund. I'd rather not have that going on inside my gun once it's been assembled. Call me crazy, but when you pay $250+ for a barrel, this should not even be an issue. I do work in a gun store, and none of the AR-15 barrels we've got have ever had rust on the barrel extension, some sitting for awhile. Maybe I just happened to get the two lemons out of a batch, because it seems that everyone else is happy with their WOA SPR barrels. Or maybe the ones I got were old stock or something, and WOA has changed up what they use for their barrels? I've got a friend at the store who has one and he's perfectly happy with it. I don't get it.
Great barrel(02/12/2016)
When in installing this barrel into a AeroPrecision upper, it was a very tight fit, which is good. I am loading 69smk's over Varget. There was a "burn in" period with this barrel, not "break in", for the throat to get polished out. Hornady 75hpbt shoots .5 min. 69smks I am getting anywhere from .5 min-.75 min groupings. Barrel started to settle in right around 100 rounds. When I need to rebarrel, I know will be buying another WOA barrel. Don't hesitate to buy.
Great barrel(06/12/2016)
I've had my barrel for 7 months now. I've been getting 1 moa with 55gr factory loads and 1/2 - 3/4 moa on 75gr match ammo at 100-200yds. I have not experienced the rust issue mentioned on other reviews. A little over 1500rds through it and still shoots like new.
Great accuracy(21/06/2017)
I finally bit the bullet and bought this barrel . Brownells had this on sale and couldn't resist. I put it on a Vltor MUR upper with Yankee Hill Todd Jerrett forearm ( all from Brownells ). Just got it installed and test fired . I done a quick break in procedure of fire 1-clean , fire 2- clean , fire 2 -clean , fire 4 clean , fire 5 - clean , done . Thru out break in with cheap 55 grain PMC I was getting about 1 moa , not bad . I switched to IMI 77 gr smk mod 1 and was just under 1moa @100 . Today I went out on another shooting and was amazed at the accuracy . The cheap 55gr PMC was right at 1moa while the IMI 77gr smk was 0.75" @100yds . I think this barrel takes a bit more break in shots than others . It's at about 75 RDS and it's getting better and better. Here's a tip - bed the barrel with some blue loctite !!!
Received this barrel today from brownells, installed and zeroed, then proceeded to shoot 5 sub-moa groups from 100 to 600 yards. Best group was actually 1/3 moa at 300 yards! I am very impressed and will use white oak next time I need a barrel.
Very, Very Happy(23/05/2018)
I am very pleased with this barrel. I bought it to replace a DPMS 18" SPR barrel that never quite shot as well as I hoped. I am not a gunsmith, nor a competition shooter, just a weekend enthusiast. I installed the barrel myself with no issues and have been impressed from day 1. I could post pictures of all the great 100 yard groups it has shot but today I stretched it to 1000 yards. The pic is of a 6 round group shot at 1000 yards with this barrel, suppressed with an AAC 762-SD topped with a Leupold Mark 4 3.5-10x shooting 77gr SMK's. Being just a guy who shoots on the weekends I didn't think I'd ever be able to hit anything with a 223 at 1000 yards but White Oak got me there. Very happy purchaser!
Just got this barrel out of the box. Great finish. Look down the bore- no burrs of any kind, even on the gas port. Smooth threads on the end. Barrel extension fit very snugly into my upper receiver. Has the dimple on the underside of the gas port for lining up set-screw gas blocks. Fit & finish are great.
Will Shoot sub-MOA easy(25/10/2013)
Had this on my long range rifle... excellent barrel! shoots sub-moa out of the box. With hand-load 3/4 to 1/2 MOA groups easy. Excellent finish, tight fit into the upper, excellent alignment and threading. In my opinion easily outperforms barrels twice the price!!! Looks and feels heavy (almost bull barrel if it was not for the threads!)... superb!
Worth Every Cent!!!(14/11/2013)
This is a super high quality barrel. Fit,Finish and accuracy are AWESOME!!!
Awesome!!!!!(27/11/2013)
Got this barrel set up on a Spikes upper receiver Seekins adj. gas block with my Stag lower. Awesome!! Shot some factory 77gr SMK at .75moa, then shot factory Hornady TAP 60gr. covered up with a dime. Only put 26 rounds through it. It's gonna get even better.
Super Accurate(05/01/2014)
Have this barrel on my long range/target/hunting rifle. Ran about 100 rounds of PMC 55 gr through it to smooth it out, then went to high quality factory ammunition. Achieved 1 MOA groups at 100 yards with Winchester BST 55 gr. Went to the bench and crafted up some reloads.. Wow. Tried 15 different loads and ALL were under 1 MOA. The best measured .44", and was with 64 gr. Flat Base Berger HP's and Win 748. Excellent barrel and very surprising for the cost.
Much Better Than Expected(14/10/2014)
I put this on my Adams Arms piston driven AR. I did the standard barrel break-in and then put 30 rounds of Sierra 69gr Matchkings into a quarter sized hole using a Vortex Strikefire 4 MOA redot sight at 100 yards. If you are looking for a quality barrel without breaking the bank, this is the barrel I would recommend.
Very Disappointed.(11/03/2015)
Very poor accuracy. Consistent 3 inch groups with a 8x scope at 100 yards. Testing was done with 55 5.6 nato and 223 55 gr ammo mostly PMC. Have other rifles that shoot this 55 gr ammo non match 1 1/2 inches at 100 yards. I no longer hand load so you may be able to tailor a load for this barrel. I didn't want to try any expensive heaver bullets like 69 gr black hills because of the coast factor. I did try some 62 gr green tip with the same results. With new furniture and Nikon 223 scope put almost $900 into this rifle. Should have cut back on every thing else and gotten a Noveske.
Excellent group capabilities(18/03/2015)
Just an expansion off my earlier review.. I have around 250rds down the barrel at this time. Crafted this load using a 65gr Sierra bullet. Measures .5", from 100yds. 5 shots.
This is a Great Barrel. I haven't heard of anyone that can't get good groups. To the reviewer that gave it 1 star. If you buy cheap ammo then you probably wont get good groups. Also, from what I have heard about WOA they will make it right if you give them the chance. Every Ammo that I have fired has given me good accuracy. I don't believe that there is a better value in a barrel. With cheap 50grn varmint tip bullets I get around 1/2" 5 shot groups. For ammo that is less than $10 a box I can't complain.
Great barrel(10/10/2015)
Great barrel, the group is with some very low cost reloads using 55 grain varmint nightmares and varget. I fired one 2 round magazine from a rest. I will be really excited to see how it shoots when I taylor a load for it.
Installed without any problem. Great looking barrel, the crown, finish, threads and other machine work are excellent. It is heavier than average, you can feel all of that 2.5 lbs. Had the chance to fire 5-shot groups of 4 different rounds I am considering for hog hunting, and one as a benchmark, at measured 100 yards from a machine rest, little to no wind, 20X Zeiss Conquest scope, Geissele SD-E trigger. But even with all that help, I have to admit to a human factor, a few of these shots might have been up to 0.2 MOA off the intended point of aim when the trigger broke, so YMMV. Black Hills MK 262 Mod 1, 1.0 MOA. CBC Magtech 77gr OTM (clone of the first ammo), 0.70 MOA. SSA 70gr Barnes TSC, 1.20 MOA. ASYM 70gr Barnes TSX, 1.83 MOA. And finally Eagle Eye 69gr, which is supposed to have an impeccable reputation for accuracy and consistency, 0.43 MOA. Very pleased with this barrel, would recommend to a friend, and yes, I would buy another one.
Great Accurate Barrel For Price(26/12/2015)
I have purchased 4 of these barrels (2 for myself and 2 for relatives) and they are all excellent. Accuracy on all of them is above par for barrels in their price range and the machine work on all of them is also well done. The bores on all of them came lapped and smooth, and as a result they do not pick up a lot of fouling and they clean easily. These barrels truly represent an excellent value for the money. We use them for 3 gun matches, but every one of them, with a good load workup will consistently shoot back to back 100 yd 5 groups in the .750" or less range, which is great. Great job White Oak!
Excellent barrel!!(14/06/2016)
I've been shooting AR15's for about two years now and decided to build my second rifle to be as accurate as possible. I chose this barrel and couldn't be more pleased. I'm shooting half inch 5 shot groups with this barrel @100yds and I'm sure it would shoot even better with a better shooter behind it. I will be buying the 16" version for another build. Thank you White Oak and Brownells!
Bang 4 Your Buck(29/11/2016)
I use 1" target spots as targets @100yards with 5 shot groups. 60 grain Nosler with 25.5 grains H 4895 and rem. 7 1/2 primers rem. brass, and 65 grain Sierra game kings with 25.7 grains H varget and rem 7 1/2 primers Lake city brass. COL 2.260 all rounds. Scope is weaver 3-12 x 44 kespa ill mil dot with Nikon P series mounts, and ARFX Skeleton stock, PWS muzzle brake, Chip McCormick 3.5 lbs trigger ,Magpul 20 rd. mag., Monstrum Tactical 10" key mod. For a 9 lbs gun. Look out Mr. Piggy. This barrel makes the difference...
Mediocre for "match grade"(25/12/2016)
I had higher expectations for this barrel given the other reviews which seem like honest representations. Otherwise, I would not have bought it.
My qualified gunsmith mounted this barrel to my fulton armory rifle. Using a Vortex Viper PST, free float tube Timney 3LB trigger, and three different proven hand loads, this barrel groups 5 shots repeatably into 1.0" to 1.2"
Using a high quality milspec BCG from FA, my case head space measures .004" longer than my 5.56 fired brass and .008" longer than my other 223 wylde chamber. My gunsmith's gauges indicate minimum headspace however the brass appears to be closer to maximum.
My fired brass also consistently has a small gouge halfway down the body after firing.
Looks like I just got a lemon. Which, from a less expensive barrel can happen. A custom barrel manufacturer does not let lemons slip though which highlights why other barrels cost more.
Super Accuracy(25/03/2017)
The previous reviewer may not have the right combination. I put this Barrel together with a Aero Precision Monolithic Upper, Colt Bolt and Carrier and an AR Gold Trigger. This Barrel loves 55 Gr. V-Maxes and 55 Gr. Nosler BT Bullets. It will also shoot the cheaper Hornady 55gr, SP Bulk Bullets Great. This Rifle shot several 3/8" 3 shot groups at 200 Meters from the Bench with the Hornady 55 V-Max. This is with no fancy reloads like I do for my Bolt Actions. Just Lapua Brass and Match Primers on a Dillon 650. To be honest, my Bolt Actions have a hard time keeping up with this Rifle at the shorter Ranges.
Not what I hoped for in accuracy(24/04/2018)
Bought this 18" SPR barrel (with a matched bolt) based on all the lovely reviews but have not gotten any better than 1MOA with anything from XM193 to laddered hand loads with 69 gr SMKs and Varget. . Guess this is a just a lemon like some of the the other reviewers. Expensive lemon when I get this accuracy with a Faxon or even (gasp) a Bear Creek Arsenal cheapie.
Disappointed with WOA.
Good product!(06/03/2013)
Slapped this barrel on an old colt CM upper, free floated the mid length gas system and WOA! 5 holes in one hole,using 80 grain serria. Bit oversized but none the less all through one hole at 25 mtrs! Can't wait to try it at 100.. A+++
Very Accurate(29/03/2013)
Have this barrel on an Stag Arms with 2-stage trigger and good scope, chambering is tight for accuracy, and I do use the forward assist frequently.
Accuracy is outstanding. sub MOA for sure, gun is way better than I am. With handloads, probably is 0.5 MOA
Accurate(05/03/2014)
I bought one of these barrels in 16" to build a beater to carry in my truck and jeep. I usually use Shilen or Kriegers to build AR 15s as they have always provided great accuracy. To my amazement this barrel with CFE powder and 65 grain Sierra Game Kings will shoot 1/2 inch groups at 100 yds all day. At 200 and 300 yds it will kill coyotes easily. I live in West Texas and distance is just a way of life. I have built several ARs with my favorite being a .224x42 (6.8 necked down to .224) that gun will shoot 55 grain Noslers at 3550 fps out of a 20" barrel. This White Oak barrel has been a great addition try it you will like it and the service at Brownells is second to none.
Great barrel(15/10/2014)
After six shots and barrel snaking after each shot was able to get 3 shot groups in 3/8inch at 50 yards. Absolutely a great deal. Thats with cheap xm193's. used frog lube for cleaner on the snake. Used it in a 3Gun competition day after breaking in.
WHITE OAK ARMAMENT: quality and accuracy(19/03/2015)
I have used these barrels in customer guns, including a couple for Law Enforcement. The one in the picture has a White Oak Armament barrel, and belongs to a police officer. He appreciates the weight of the barrel, with the specific recoil system, as it really helps keep the sights on target. The accuracy is excellent - slightly sub-MOA when using TAP ammo. If this barrel was for a hunting gun, the weight may be a downside, but not for the uses I indicated.
I have shot manny different bullets weights and shapes from an 80gr Sierra mk at 600 yds, to a 50 gr hornady v-max at 200 yds. All ammo tested has been around 1/2 MOA! I have always used the barrels from White Oak Armament. Every barrel or upper purchased exceeds expectations. I have an extra White Oak barrel sitting on the shelf, that is how much I love these barrels!
accurate barrel(07/11/2015)
After break-in, I loaded 77 grain Sierra Match King bullets ahead of 23.6 grains of Varget powder, using Remington .223 brass and CCI primers. Using a scope I am averaging 0.3 inches for 5 shots at 100 yards! This is the most accurate barrel I have used on an AR15 thus far. I highly recommend White Oak barrels.
Problem Barrel from White Oak Armament(25/03/2016)
Installed this barrel on my AR and had instant problems with the cycling. I tried different buffers and different ammo. Finally disassembled to check the gas port diameter. It was under sized. Also the indention on the bottom of the barrel to receive the gas block set screw was off and so it made the block ride to one side which partially closed off the hole.
I called White oak. They would've replace it, but the person i talked to seemed to not give a darn about the barrel or the customer.
Being a welder, i chose to fix it myself. It took half an hour.
Works fine now.
Looking back I should've returned the barrel and bought another brand.
Just can't ger this to work(17/07/2017)
I hate to say it but I am finding this barrel to be just horrible. I cannot get ANYTHING to group wiorth a darn out of it. Maybe I go a bad one, I don't know, but I've tried working up various handloads, all different bulletin weights, then went to several factory loads to be sure I wasn't doing anything off with my loads, though I knew I wasn't. Cannot find anything that will consistently stay under 2 inches at 100 yards. I have a palmetto armory kit rifle that shoots better, which disappoints me because I was hoping to build a really accurate AR.
Product no.: 100009961 WHITE OAK ARMAMENT 18" MID-LENGTH SPR BARREL Mfr Part: 5SPRM7 Precision-machined stainless steel barrels feature a .223 Wylde chamber that helps maximize the long-range performance of your AR-15 with both .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition. With 6-groove, 1-7" button rifling for accuracy and M4-type feed ramps for reliable feeding, these barrels help you reach out to distant targets with issued or magazine-length ammunition. The 18" barrels offer the Special Purpose Rifle (SPR) profile designed to optimize accuracy out to 600 meters, and are available with Mid-Length or Rifle-Length gas systems. SDM barrel features a heavy, fluted profile under the handguards, for added strength and rigidity. Threaded muzzle accepts a variety of compensators or flash suppressors.
Precision-machined stainless steel barrels with a .223 Wylde chamber optimize long-range performance for both .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO ammo.
Features include 6-groove, 1-7" button rifling for accuracy and M4-type feed ramps for reliable feeding, suitable for reaching targets up to 600 meters.
The 18" SPR profile barrel is designed for accuracy and is available with Mid-Length gas systems, threaded muzzle for various compensators or flash suppressors.
Made in USA
US export classification: 0A501.c
This item is controlled by the U.S. government and authorized for export only to the country of ultimate destination for use by the ultimate consignee or end-user(s) herein identified. It may not be resold, transferred, or otherwise disposed of, to any other country or to any person other than the authorized ultimate consignee or end-user(s), either in their original form or after being incorporated into other items, without first obtaining approval from the U.S. government or as otherwise authorized by U.S. law and regulations.
Sale
Product no.: 100009769 WHITE OAK ARMAMENT 16" MID-LENGTH CARBINE BARREL Mfr Part: 5SPR16 Precision-machined stainless steel barrels feature a .223 Wylde chamber that helps maximize the long-range performance of your AR-15 with both .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition. With 6-groove, 1-7" button rifling for accuracy and M4-type feed ramps for reliable feeding, these barrels help you reach out to distant targets with issued or magazine-length ammunition. The 18" barrels offer the Special Purpose Rifle (SPR) profile designed to optimize accuracy out to 600 meters, and are available with Mid-Length or Rifle-Length gas systems. SDM barrel features a heavy, fluted profile under the handguards, for added strength and rigidity. Threaded muzzle accepts a variety of compensators or flash suppressors.
Product no.: 100009962 WHITE OAK ARMAMENT 18" RIFLE SPR BARREL Mfr Part: 5SPRR7 Precision-machined stainless steel barrels feature a .223 Wylde chamber that helps maximize the long-range performance of your AR-15 with both .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition. With 6-groove, 1-7" button rifling for accuracy and M4-type feed ramps for reliable feeding, these barrels help you reach out to distant targets with issued or magazine-length ammunition. The 18" barrels offer the Special Purpose Rifle (SPR) profile designed to optimize accuracy out to 600 meters, and are available with Mid-Length or Rifle-Length gas systems. SDM barrel features a heavy, fluted profile under the handguards, for added strength and rigidity. Threaded muzzle accepts a variety of compensators or flash suppressors.
Wylde Chamber Helps Maximize Performance With .223 Or 5.56 Ammo
Precision-machined stainless steel barrels feature a .223 Wylde chamber that helps maximize the long-range performance of your AR-15 with both .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition. With 6-groove, 1-7" button rifling for accuracy and M4-type feed ramps for reliable feeding, these barrels help you reach out to distant targets with issued or magazine-length ammunition. The 18" barrels offer the Special Purpose Rifle (SPR) profile designed to optimize accuracy out to 600 meters, and are available with Mid-Length or Rifle-Length gas systems. SDM barrel features a heavy, fluted profile under the handguards, for added strength and rigidity. Threaded muzzle accepts a variety of compensators or flash suppressors.
Customer ratings for WHITE OAK ARMAMENT 18" MID-LENGTH SPR BARREL
Number of ratings: 44
From brownells.com: 44
Average rating: 4.5
Very pleased(22/12/2016)
Sub-MOA groupings at 100 yards on my new RECCE style build. Beautiful fluting and finish on my barrel. I would highly recommend to any prospective buyers. Perfect for a light weight, precision rifle.
My barrel was finished by WOA in June of 2005. I put it in an upper that went to the sandbox with my Godson. Out of his battalion, he scored #1 for accuracy during his pre deployment work-up. It held up to a fair amount of full auto usage. I got it back, and built a Recce type rifle around this barrel, a Larue railed handguard, and a Rock River Arms trigger. These barrels are a nice, tight fit in DPMS, and Aero Precision uppers; no shimming is necessary. No need for loctite (which would soon degrade under the heat stress any way. The gas seal with a Larue low profile gas block is exceptional. I keep this gun cleaned and lubed; it has never hiccuped once, even with a suppressor screwed on. I treated the barrel to a coat of Cerakote (sniper gray), and it will go back to being my primary means of self defense. With the fluting, it should be even better balanced. If you want to build a hard use Recce rifle, here is your barrel. It is all that. .7 MOA groups day in and day out.
WOA SPR BARREL(12/09/2013)
White Oak Armament is top notch, I bought my first WOA SPR barrel staight from them with a bead blasted finish, I fell in love with the performance of the barrel, I ordered a second WOA SPR barrel from brownells. I sent it to WOA for bead blasting.
If you are looking for top notch accuracy and performance you can't go wrong with WOA. John stands by his product.
Outstanding Barrel(26/04/2014)
Used this barrel on a MAG Tactical billet Magnesium upper/lower set in dark earth color. Stock and pistolgrip were Magpul dark earth with a full length Troy foream using low profile gas block. The lightweight but strong magnesium receiver and other carefully chosen parts turned out a rifle weighing exactly 7.5 pounds. The heavy profile of the barrel put more weight forward of center and with muzzle break setting rifle on sandbag rest and pulling trigger with string the rifle sits level and does not move rearward at all. No muzzle rise, virtually no recoil result from weight distribution. Once barrel was broken in properly it immediately was shooting under an inch at 100 yards with all loads including mil surplus. Without working up any loads for it yet, with a random box of 77 grain bullets 5 shot groups of 1/2" were common. With one box of 80 grain pills shot a 3/8" 100 yard group. Can't wait to see what it will do once work up a taylored load. Be sure to break in properly, put on quality build and own your little corner of the world. Only shot out to 250 yards thus far but bullets falling in right at an inch at that distance. Will buy another soon.
Great match barrel(26/07/2014)
Mounted this barrel on a Arrow Arms receiver sold here at Brownells and what a shooter it turned out to be. Used the DPMS free float handguard and a Leupod VX-1 3x9 scope to top it off and not even a hundred rounds shot through it yet and getting 3/8 inch one hole 5 shot groups at 100 yards! This barrel loves Sierra 69 Gr. match kings with Varget powder. Going to use it for the CMP high power match. Move over boys, there's a new kid in town.
Update range report(31/07/2014)
Great barrel for match shooting. 3/8" group at 100 yrds. 55 Gr. Nosler BT and Benchmark powder. To the person that gave thumbs down, what a putz!
Top end in my book(14/12/2014)
Started with 75gr BTHP hornady match just to see what it would do. Wasnt to bad. Tried 68gr BTHP hornady match next and wow all 5 shots were touching at 100 yds with a 10x fixed Swfa ss scope. Very impresive with factory loads.
great barrel(20/01/2015)
This barrel is a great buy. 5/16 inch center to center, 3 shot group at 100 yards using factory Hornady .223 68gr match ammo. The barrel doesn't care for 55 or 75 gr that I fed it, but both still under 1 MOA. Will be buying WOA barrels for future builds.
WOW!(08/02/2015)
Used this barrel on my SPR type build because of the great reviews. It lives up to every one of them. Have only fired it with some 55 grain varmint nightmare low cost hollow points. All I can say is WOW! Can't wait to try some 69 to 77 grain match bullets and work up a load.
Great Barrel(20/02/2015)
This is my first AR-15 barrel that I have used. It seems to be a great barrel. I was on limited funds for my build and this barrel was the only part that I splurged on. I have shot around a hundred rounds out of this barrel. I have only shot CHEAP ammo so far and have had a few sub-moa groups. That is impressive considering I'm shooting the cheapest stuff I can get my hands on, and my trigger and scope sucks. I am really excited to see what it can do with some good reloads, and a better trigger. I did a lot of research prior to buying this barrel. The reason that I went with this over some of the other barrels. Is because I didn't see any negative reviews anywhere. Look around for yourself, I doubt that you can find anyone on any site that badmouths White Oak. In this day and age that is HUGE.
Great Barrel(09/02/2016)
Added this barrel to a high end custom build. First time going with a NON BULL barrel. Was worried how the accuracy would be, but tired of carrying the weight. This barrel was more than I hoped for. 1/2' MOA...Shoots better than I do. My handloaded 40 gr Hornady V-Max 27.3 grains Benchmark powder...Buy it don't look back! Only con...I don't typically use a muzzle break or flash suppressor so if it was available without threading I would have opted for that!
Best money spent in years!(06/07/2016)
I purchased this barrel to replace a 2 MOA (with match grade high end ammo) FN barrel that I originally bought for my first build which is an SPR mk12 type build. I should have bought this barrel from the get go. I am totally floored by the aesthetic looks and workmanship in this barrel and of course by the accuracy! I have it mounted to an Aero precision upper, lighting off the loads with a G2s-e two stage match trigger pulling at about 4.2lbs, and zeroing in with a Trijicon Accupower 3-9x40 scope, just perfect for my tastes. Ill get to the point. Out of 16 different hand loads I put together using Varget and IMR 8208 powder and Some sierra match kings and nosler custom competition bullets, I had seven that shot 1 MOA to .3 MOA. I just ordered some higher end factory loads including blackhills 77 grain mk262 mod 1 to further do some testing and I ordered about a thousand 77 and 69 grain SMKs and TMKs to begin loading up cartridges to hunt and train with. I am very very very happy and I recommend ANYONE who is looking for a good $300 barrel to buy white oak Armament!
Rust on the barrel extension!(31/10/2016)
I really, really wanted to like this barrel, but I just can't. Fit and finish on the barrel itself appeared to be excellent. The barrel extension, however, is a different story. And this is not about just, one, but TWO, different barrels. I ordered the 18" SPR rifle-length-gas barrel, and when I received it, the barrel extension has rust all over it. Actually started pitting. Not the barrel, just all over the extension, except inside, which i expect given enough time would have done the same. Good thing I got the EDGE program, because I definitely made good use of it. Sent the barrel back to be replaced, and the second one I received was in excellent condition. Not a speck of rust to be found on the barrel extension.
Unfortunately I was not able to assemble the rifle right away, and probably a good thing too. After a few months, I noticed very small rust spots on the extension...AGAIN. Cleaned it up with some oil and a brush. Another month goes by, and now there's even more rust, all over, including on the visible part of the lugs. Sent that one back for a full refund. I'd rather not have that going on inside my gun once it's been assembled. Call me crazy, but when you pay $250+ for a barrel, this should not even be an issue. I do work in a gun store, and none of the AR-15 barrels we've got have ever had rust on the barrel extension, some sitting for awhile. Maybe I just happened to get the two lemons out of a batch, because it seems that everyone else is happy with their WOA SPR barrels. Or maybe the ones I got were old stock or something, and WOA has changed up what they use for their barrels? I've got a friend at the store who has one and he's perfectly happy with it. I don't get it.
Great barrel(02/12/2016)
When in installing this barrel into a AeroPrecision upper, it was a very tight fit, which is good. I am loading 69smk's over Varget. There was a "burn in" period with this barrel, not "break in", for the throat to get polished out. Hornady 75hpbt shoots .5 min. 69smks I am getting anywhere from .5 min-.75 min groupings. Barrel started to settle in right around 100 rounds. When I need to rebarrel, I know will be buying another WOA barrel. Don't hesitate to buy.
Great barrel(06/12/2016)
I've had my barrel for 7 months now. I've been getting 1 moa with 55gr factory loads and 1/2 - 3/4 moa on 75gr match ammo at 100-200yds. I have not experienced the rust issue mentioned on other reviews. A little over 1500rds through it and still shoots like new.
Great accuracy(21/06/2017)
I finally bit the bullet and bought this barrel . Brownells had this on sale and couldn't resist. I put it on a Vltor MUR upper with Yankee Hill Todd Jerrett forearm ( all from Brownells ). Just got it installed and test fired . I done a quick break in procedure of fire 1-clean , fire 2- clean , fire 2 -clean , fire 4 clean , fire 5 - clean , done . Thru out break in with cheap 55 grain PMC I was getting about 1 moa , not bad . I switched to IMI 77 gr smk mod 1 and was just under 1moa @100 . Today I went out on another shooting and was amazed at the accuracy . The cheap 55gr PMC was right at 1moa while the IMI 77gr smk was 0.75" @100yds . I think this barrel takes a bit more break in shots than others . It's at about 75 RDS and it's getting better and better. Here's a tip - bed the barrel with some blue loctite !!!
Received this barrel today from brownells, installed and zeroed, then proceeded to shoot 5 sub-moa groups from 100 to 600 yards. Best group was actually 1/3 moa at 300 yards! I am very impressed and will use white oak next time I need a barrel.
Very, Very Happy(23/05/2018)
I am very pleased with this barrel. I bought it to replace a DPMS 18" SPR barrel that never quite shot as well as I hoped. I am not a gunsmith, nor a competition shooter, just a weekend enthusiast. I installed the barrel myself with no issues and have been impressed from day 1. I could post pictures of all the great 100 yard groups it has shot but today I stretched it to 1000 yards. The pic is of a 6 round group shot at 1000 yards with this barrel, suppressed with an AAC 762-SD topped with a Leupold Mark 4 3.5-10x shooting 77gr SMK's. Being just a guy who shoots on the weekends I didn't think I'd ever be able to hit anything with a 223 at 1000 yards but White Oak got me there. Very happy purchaser!
Just got this barrel out of the box. Great finish. Look down the bore- no burrs of any kind, even on the gas port. Smooth threads on the end. Barrel extension fit very snugly into my upper receiver. Has the dimple on the underside of the gas port for lining up set-screw gas blocks. Fit & finish are great.
Will Shoot sub-MOA easy(25/10/2013)
Had this on my long range rifle... excellent barrel! shoots sub-moa out of the box. With hand-load 3/4 to 1/2 MOA groups easy. Excellent finish, tight fit into the upper, excellent alignment and threading. In my opinion easily outperforms barrels twice the price!!! Looks and feels heavy (almost bull barrel if it was not for the threads!)... superb!
Worth Every Cent!!!(14/11/2013)
This is a super high quality barrel. Fit,Finish and accuracy are AWESOME!!!
Awesome!!!!!(27/11/2013)
Got this barrel set up on a Spikes upper receiver Seekins adj. gas block with my Stag lower. Awesome!! Shot some factory 77gr SMK at .75moa, then shot factory Hornady TAP 60gr. covered up with a dime. Only put 26 rounds through it. It's gonna get even better.
Super Accurate(05/01/2014)
Have this barrel on my long range/target/hunting rifle. Ran about 100 rounds of PMC 55 gr through it to smooth it out, then went to high quality factory ammunition. Achieved 1 MOA groups at 100 yards with Winchester BST 55 gr. Went to the bench and crafted up some reloads.. Wow. Tried 15 different loads and ALL were under 1 MOA. The best measured .44", and was with 64 gr. Flat Base Berger HP's and Win 748. Excellent barrel and very surprising for the cost.
Much Better Than Expected(14/10/2014)
I put this on my Adams Arms piston driven AR. I did the standard barrel break-in and then put 30 rounds of Sierra 69gr Matchkings into a quarter sized hole using a Vortex Strikefire 4 MOA redot sight at 100 yards. If you are looking for a quality barrel without breaking the bank, this is the barrel I would recommend.
Very Disappointed.(11/03/2015)
Very poor accuracy. Consistent 3 inch groups with a 8x scope at 100 yards. Testing was done with 55 5.6 nato and 223 55 gr ammo mostly PMC. Have other rifles that shoot this 55 gr ammo non match 1 1/2 inches at 100 yards. I no longer hand load so you may be able to tailor a load for this barrel. I didn't want to try any expensive heaver bullets like 69 gr black hills because of the coast factor. I did try some 62 gr green tip with the same results. With new furniture and Nikon 223 scope put almost $900 into this rifle. Should have cut back on every thing else and gotten a Noveske.
Excellent group capabilities(18/03/2015)
Just an expansion off my earlier review.. I have around 250rds down the barrel at this time. Crafted this load using a 65gr Sierra bullet. Measures .5", from 100yds. 5 shots.
This is a Great Barrel. I haven't heard of anyone that can't get good groups. To the reviewer that gave it 1 star. If you buy cheap ammo then you probably wont get good groups. Also, from what I have heard about WOA they will make it right if you give them the chance. Every Ammo that I have fired has given me good accuracy. I don't believe that there is a better value in a barrel. With cheap 50grn varmint tip bullets I get around 1/2" 5 shot groups. For ammo that is less than $10 a box I can't complain.
Great barrel(10/10/2015)
Great barrel, the group is with some very low cost reloads using 55 grain varmint nightmares and varget. I fired one 2 round magazine from a rest. I will be really excited to see how it shoots when I taylor a load for it.
Installed without any problem. Great looking barrel, the crown, finish, threads and other machine work are excellent. It is heavier than average, you can feel all of that 2.5 lbs. Had the chance to fire 5-shot groups of 4 different rounds I am considering for hog hunting, and one as a benchmark, at measured 100 yards from a machine rest, little to no wind, 20X Zeiss Conquest scope, Geissele SD-E trigger. But even with all that help, I have to admit to a human factor, a few of these shots might have been up to 0.2 MOA off the intended point of aim when the trigger broke, so YMMV. Black Hills MK 262 Mod 1, 1.0 MOA. CBC Magtech 77gr OTM (clone of the first ammo), 0.70 MOA. SSA 70gr Barnes TSC, 1.20 MOA. ASYM 70gr Barnes TSX, 1.83 MOA. And finally Eagle Eye 69gr, which is supposed to have an impeccable reputation for accuracy and consistency, 0.43 MOA. Very pleased with this barrel, would recommend to a friend, and yes, I would buy another one.
Great Accurate Barrel For Price(26/12/2015)
I have purchased 4 of these barrels (2 for myself and 2 for relatives) and they are all excellent. Accuracy on all of them is above par for barrels in their price range and the machine work on all of them is also well done. The bores on all of them came lapped and smooth, and as a result they do not pick up a lot of fouling and they clean easily. These barrels truly represent an excellent value for the money. We use them for 3 gun matches, but every one of them, with a good load workup will consistently shoot back to back 100 yd 5 groups in the .750" or less range, which is great. Great job White Oak!
Excellent barrel!!(14/06/2016)
I've been shooting AR15's for about two years now and decided to build my second rifle to be as accurate as possible. I chose this barrel and couldn't be more pleased. I'm shooting half inch 5 shot groups with this barrel @100yds and I'm sure it would shoot even better with a better shooter behind it. I will be buying the 16" version for another build. Thank you White Oak and Brownells!
Bang 4 Your Buck(29/11/2016)
I use 1" target spots as targets @100yards with 5 shot groups. 60 grain Nosler with 25.5 grains H 4895 and rem. 7 1/2 primers rem. brass, and 65 grain Sierra game kings with 25.7 grains H varget and rem 7 1/2 primers Lake city brass. COL 2.260 all rounds. Scope is weaver 3-12 x 44 kespa ill mil dot with Nikon P series mounts, and ARFX Skeleton stock, PWS muzzle brake, Chip McCormick 3.5 lbs trigger ,Magpul 20 rd. mag., Monstrum Tactical 10" key mod. For a 9 lbs gun. Look out Mr. Piggy. This barrel makes the difference...
Mediocre for "match grade"(25/12/2016)
I had higher expectations for this barrel given the other reviews which seem like honest representations. Otherwise, I would not have bought it.
My qualified gunsmith mounted this barrel to my fulton armory rifle. Using a Vortex Viper PST, free float tube Timney 3LB trigger, and three different proven hand loads, this barrel groups 5 shots repeatably into 1.0" to 1.2"
Using a high quality milspec BCG from FA, my case head space measures .004" longer than my 5.56 fired brass and .008" longer than my other 223 wylde chamber. My gunsmith's gauges indicate minimum headspace however the brass appears to be closer to maximum.
My fired brass also consistently has a small gouge halfway down the body after firing.
Looks like I just got a lemon. Which, from a less expensive barrel can happen. A custom barrel manufacturer does not let lemons slip though which highlights why other barrels cost more.
Super Accuracy(25/03/2017)
The previous reviewer may not have the right combination. I put this Barrel together with a Aero Precision Monolithic Upper, Colt Bolt and Carrier and an AR Gold Trigger. This Barrel loves 55 Gr. V-Maxes and 55 Gr. Nosler BT Bullets. It will also shoot the cheaper Hornady 55gr, SP Bulk Bullets Great. This Rifle shot several 3/8" 3 shot groups at 200 Meters from the Bench with the Hornady 55 V-Max. This is with no fancy reloads like I do for my Bolt Actions. Just Lapua Brass and Match Primers on a Dillon 650. To be honest, my Bolt Actions have a hard time keeping up with this Rifle at the shorter Ranges.
Not what I hoped for in accuracy(24/04/2018)
Bought this 18" SPR barrel (with a matched bolt) based on all the lovely reviews but have not gotten any better than 1MOA with anything from XM193 to laddered hand loads with 69 gr SMKs and Varget. . Guess this is a just a lemon like some of the the other reviewers. Expensive lemon when I get this accuracy with a Faxon or even (gasp) a Bear Creek Arsenal cheapie.
Disappointed with WOA.
Good product!(06/03/2013)
Slapped this barrel on an old colt CM upper, free floated the mid length gas system and WOA! 5 holes in one hole,using 80 grain serria. Bit oversized but none the less all through one hole at 25 mtrs! Can't wait to try it at 100.. A+++
Very Accurate(29/03/2013)
Have this barrel on an Stag Arms with 2-stage trigger and good scope, chambering is tight for accuracy, and I do use the forward assist frequently.
Accuracy is outstanding. sub MOA for sure, gun is way better than I am. With handloads, probably is 0.5 MOA
Accurate(05/03/2014)
I bought one of these barrels in 16" to build a beater to carry in my truck and jeep. I usually use Shilen or Kriegers to build AR 15s as they have always provided great accuracy. To my amazement this barrel with CFE powder and 65 grain Sierra Game Kings will shoot 1/2 inch groups at 100 yds all day. At 200 and 300 yds it will kill coyotes easily. I live in West Texas and distance is just a way of life. I have built several ARs with my favorite being a .224x42 (6.8 necked down to .224) that gun will shoot 55 grain Noslers at 3550 fps out of a 20" barrel. This White Oak barrel has been a great addition try it you will like it and the service at Brownells is second to none.
Great barrel(15/10/2014)
After six shots and barrel snaking after each shot was able to get 3 shot groups in 3/8inch at 50 yards. Absolutely a great deal. Thats with cheap xm193's. used frog lube for cleaner on the snake. Used it in a 3Gun competition day after breaking in.
WHITE OAK ARMAMENT: quality and accuracy(19/03/2015)
I have used these barrels in customer guns, including a couple for Law Enforcement. The one in the picture has a White Oak Armament barrel, and belongs to a police officer. He appreciates the weight of the barrel, with the specific recoil system, as it really helps keep the sights on target. The accuracy is excellent - slightly sub-MOA when using TAP ammo. If this barrel was for a hunting gun, the weight may be a downside, but not for the uses I indicated.
I have shot manny different bullets weights and shapes from an 80gr Sierra mk at 600 yds, to a 50 gr hornady v-max at 200 yds. All ammo tested has been around 1/2 MOA! I have always used the barrels from White Oak Armament. Every barrel or upper purchased exceeds expectations. I have an extra White Oak barrel sitting on the shelf, that is how much I love these barrels!
accurate barrel(07/11/2015)
After break-in, I loaded 77 grain Sierra Match King bullets ahead of 23.6 grains of Varget powder, using Remington .223 brass and CCI primers. Using a scope I am averaging 0.3 inches for 5 shots at 100 yards! This is the most accurate barrel I have used on an AR15 thus far. I highly recommend White Oak barrels.
Problem Barrel from White Oak Armament(25/03/2016)
Installed this barrel on my AR and had instant problems with the cycling. I tried different buffers and different ammo. Finally disassembled to check the gas port diameter. It was under sized. Also the indention on the bottom of the barrel to receive the gas block set screw was off and so it made the block ride to one side which partially closed off the hole.
I called White oak. They would've replace it, but the person i talked to seemed to not give a darn about the barrel or the customer.
Being a welder, i chose to fix it myself. It took half an hour.
Works fine now.
Looking back I should've returned the barrel and bought another brand.
Just can't ger this to work(17/07/2017)
I hate to say it but I am finding this barrel to be just horrible. I cannot get ANYTHING to group wiorth a darn out of it. Maybe I go a bad one, I don't know, but I've tried working up various handloads, all different bulletin weights, then went to several factory loads to be sure I wasn't doing anything off with my loads, though I knew I wasn't. Cannot find anything that will consistently stay under 2 inches at 100 yards. I have a palmetto armory kit rifle that shoots better, which disappoints me because I was hoping to build a really accurate AR.