- Messages
- 137
- Reactions
- 113
Hey All, was wondering if anyone had experience with two of the Criterion Barrel profiles. I'm pretty much settled on using a Criterion Barrel for my next 223/5.56 Upper build, but am stuck between the Core Series and Hybrid 14.5 inch. Reviews on the Core series seem to be amazing but I find very little on the hybrid. I was originally thinking going for a Block 2 M4ish setup for versatility and durability. In my head the hybrid profile is a little more like the popular "SOCOM" profile barrel but in .223 Wylde. Apologize ahead of time for noob nerdiness incoming.
I've read reviews on both profiles in general and looked at the specs, but no one seems to have a direct comparison between the two. Most of the specs are the same - Chamber (.223 Wylde), Material (4150 CrMoV), Finish (Chrome-lined, Phosphate), Length (14.5 inch), Gas Length (mid), Twist (1-8), Groves (6), etc.
Key comparison points:
So am I just over thinking this and leaning towards something because in my head the logic for the durability and reliability make sense? Weight is always a factor for the human error side of accuracy and performance so should that be the bigger factor. I am fairly fit and train, but in the imaginary apocalyptic situation where I actually have to use my weapons would that 0.2oz and balance shift make a difference? Naturally I understand a weapon is only as good as the meat sack using it so training and practice are ultimately more important. However, I'm sure plenty of us still get a good chunk of our fun out with stats and specs. Anyways, looking for feedback based on my nerdy thoughts and your experiences. Was leaning towards to the Hybrid partially because I have a couple 0.750 adjustable gas blocks already and not sure it worth making a decision based on less than a 1/4 oz of weight. I maybe shoot this suppressed on occasion in the future if I can get the wife approval on purchasing one if that factors in at all.
Pictures of profiles for reference:
Core:
Hybrid:
SOCOM:
I've read reviews on both profiles in general and looked at the specs, but no one seems to have a direct comparison between the two. Most of the specs are the same - Chamber (.223 Wylde), Material (4150 CrMoV), Finish (Chrome-lined, Phosphate), Length (14.5 inch), Gas Length (mid), Twist (1-8), Groves (6), etc.
Key comparison points:
- Weight
- Core: 1.65 lbs (26.4 oz)
- Hybrid: 1.85 lbs (29.6 oz)
- Balance
- Core: Bias towards the receiver
- Hybrid: More evenly distributed
- Gas Block Diameter
- Core: 0.625 inch
- Hybrid: 0.750 inch
So am I just over thinking this and leaning towards something because in my head the logic for the durability and reliability make sense? Weight is always a factor for the human error side of accuracy and performance so should that be the bigger factor. I am fairly fit and train, but in the imaginary apocalyptic situation where I actually have to use my weapons would that 0.2oz and balance shift make a difference? Naturally I understand a weapon is only as good as the meat sack using it so training and practice are ultimately more important. However, I'm sure plenty of us still get a good chunk of our fun out with stats and specs. Anyways, looking for feedback based on my nerdy thoughts and your experiences. Was leaning towards to the Hybrid partially because I have a couple 0.750 adjustable gas blocks already and not sure it worth making a decision based on less than a 1/4 oz of weight. I maybe shoot this suppressed on occasion in the future if I can get the wife approval on purchasing one if that factors in at all.
Pictures of profiles for reference:
Core:
Hybrid:
SOCOM: