In a world where accuracy is king, improvements in barrel technology afford even the newest shooters the opportunity to shoot like the pro’s!  But….what makes a barrel accurate?  Can shooters upgrade factory manufactured barrels in their personal firearms?  If they do upgrade, what would be a good buy?  Well buckaroos….less than 10 years ago, “5R Rifled” barrels were introduced, and the gun world changed!!!

The advent of 5R Rifling can be credited to Barrett “Boots” Obermeyer.  “Boots” was a U.S. Army veteran who cut his teeth in the target shooting community over the years. “Boots” received his first taste of firearms education while enrolled in the gunsmith program at Trinidad State Junior College in Colorado.  “Boots” ended his duty in the U.S. Army in the early 1960’s, and that began his affinity with making gun barrels; an affinity that has lasted more than 40 years.  “Boots” holds a High Master classification in a few high-power rifle disciplines, has achieved the rank of Distinguished Rifleman, and boasts a plethora of national shooting awards.

5R Rifling yields greater barrel performance in two major ways…..

1. 5R Rifling presents lands that are less square.  Rifling brings lands and grooves together in a circular pattern inside of your bore.  Customary rifling usually has extremely sharp edges on the landings.  These sharp edges are a breeding ground for dirt, barrel fouling, and bullet degradation.  5R Rifling has less sharp edges…. Less space for dirt, fouling, and bullet degradation.
2. The lands in 5R Rifling are cut at an odd number.  Customary rifling usually has an even number of lands.  This means that inside of the barrel, lands are opposite of each other, and results in a more constricted bullet as it passes through the bore. 5R Rifling allows for no lands to be opposite of each other inside of the barrel.  The result is a less constricted bullet, and thus ensures that the round leaves the bore with as little degradation as possible.

The picture above is of our Thompson/Center Venture chambered in .270 Winchester. This rifle has 5R rifling as well as a match-grade recessed barrel.  Despite this rifle kicking like a mule, it shoots like a tack driver at extreme yardage!

***  If you are unfamiliar with firearms and/or their accessories, and want to learn more, PSA strongly suggests that you find, enroll, and attend a comprehensive and reputable firearms safety course. Firearms safety is all of OUR responsibility.  

We want to thank you for taking out the time to stop by our lane at the shooting range!!  We hope that you enjoyed your stay and hope that you stop back by early and often to catch up on all PSA updates!  We truly hope that we were able to hit the target, and if you ever have any questions please don’t hesitate to shoot them our way!!  We look forward to shooting the breeze with you soon again!!

And as always….remember to watch your six and stay low!!!