Choosing an AR barrel

[Wingshooter]

I just got the stripped upper and LMT bolt carrier group that I ordered from BravoCompanyUSA. Nice stuff for a great sale price! It all fit very tightly onto my lower. Almost too tight... I can engage the take down pins by hand, but I have to lightly tap the rear pin out with a punch to get it free. I guess that will loosen up with shooting???? No wiggle at all between the upper and lower.

Anyway, I will be ordering the barrel soon. I will be using this for a coyote gun and just general plinking. I want a 16" in 5.56, and I need the M4 feed ramps to match my upper. I expect that I will be shooting mainly 55+ gr bullets. I have read several posts about the 1:9 being the more versatile barrel for lighter bullet weights. I don't see myself dropping any lighter than 55 gr, but I may want to go heavier.

I am looking at a Daniel Defense 1:7 twist for $169. My question is... will the 1:7 shoot a 55 gr bullet with proper stabilization and accuracy? This barrel is also chrome lined, which isn't a big deal to me, but might make cleaning easier.

Del-Ton has a 1:9 twist non-chrome for the same price.

I have heard good things about both manufacturers, but I don't have personal experience with either. I can already see that one AR is not going to be enough...

[Rightwinger]

The most common statements are the 1:9 is for the 55 grain projos and the 1:7 is for the longer, heavier 70/75 grain ones. Every rifle will vary on which ammo variations it likes but this is the general rule for AR twists.

[Guest gcrookston]

The 1:7 will adequately handle the 55gr. where it excels is with the 62gr (green tip). My preference is for the 1:7 because I prefer shooting heavier bullets greater distances with accuracy.

The chrome lined barrel can be a real plus in most instances. Being harder than steel it will last longer if properly cared for (no steel brushes!).

[Rightwinger]

This has some info in it.

.223 Rem. ammo. and rate of twist - THR