Summary

The Criterion 16" HBAR barrel evaluated in this test ultimately proved to be a very strong performer. After an unusual issue with the original barrel supplied by a subscriber, Criterion replaced the barrel and installed a new one on the upper receiver for further testing.

Inspection of the replacement barrel showed excellent machining quality, proper chamber dimensions, and tight headspace. On the range, the barrel delivered outstanding accuracy across multiple ammunition types, including some of the best groups I have recorded with Federal Gold Medal Match and IMI Razor Core ammunition.

Overall, the Criterion HBAR demonstrated strong build quality and excellent real-world performance.

Background

The original upper receiver used in this test was supplied by a subscriber to the YouTube channel. The subscriber reported that the barrel had approximately 1,000 rounds fired through it prior to being sent in for evaluation.

During the initial inspection of the original barrel, I observed unexpected throat wear for the reported round count. After completing my standard group testing, another unusual behavior emerged: velocities across multiple ammunition types were 150–200 fps higher than expected, and the fired brass showed signs of pressure.

Because of these observations, I contacted Criterion to discuss the results.

Criterion asked that the complete upper receiver be sent in for inspection so they could evaluate whether anything was out of the ordinary. Criterion covered the shipping costs for the evaluation.

After inspecting the upper, Criterion concluded that the increased velocities were likely caused by excessive headspace combined with fouling buildup. The original barrel was discarded, and Criterion installed a new barrel on the upper receiver.

The following inspection and performance results reflect the replacement barrel.

Barrel Specifications

• Length: 16 inches

• Steel: 4150 CMV

• Bore/Chamber: Chrome-lined

• Twist Rate: 1:8

• Chamber: .223 Wylde

• Threads: 1/2x28

• Profile: HBAR

Borescope Inspection

The initial borescope inspection of the replacement barrel showed excellent overall quality.

No obvious defects were observed in the bore, chamber, or throat. The chrome lining appeared consistent and well applied throughout the bore.

If being extremely critical, there was very slight roughness on the right side of the rifling lands in the throat area, but this was minor and did not appear to be problematic. Overall, the bore quality looked very good.

Gauging and Dimensional Inspection

The barrel passed all inspection and gauging checks.

Throat Erosion

The throat erosion reading measured 1, which is exactly what would be expected from a new barrel.

Headspace

Headspace measured less than 0.002 inches greater than minimum specification, placing it on the tighter side of the acceptable range. This is consistent with what I have typically seen from Criterion barrels.

Chamber Dimensions

The barrel passed the chamber dimension gauge, indicating that the chamber and throat are at least minimum size, which is generally desirable for maintaining consistent pressure and accuracy.

Gas Block Journal

The gas block journal measured slightly larger than average. While this is not a problem, it may result in a looser gas block fit depending on the gas block used.

Barrel Extension Fit

The barrel extension diameter measured smaller than average, which may result in a somewhat looser fit within the upper receiver.

Gas Port

The gas port measured 0.075 inches using a pin gauge.

For a 16-inch mid-length gas system, this is approximately average and resulted in a pleasant shooting experience during testing.

Shooting Conditions

All testing was conducted using my standard shooting setup in order to maintain consistency between different barrels and ammunition tests.

Maintaining consistent testing conditions helps ensure that the results can be meaningfully compared against other barrels tested on the channel.

Range Performance

The shooting experience with the Criterion HBAR was excellent.

The rifle functioned reliably throughout testing with no malfunctions. Recoil impulse was smooth and consistent, which aligns with the measured gas port size.

All ammunition types produced very strong group performance.

Federal Gold Medal Match 77gr SMK

This ammunition produced the best group of the test and was among the best groups I have recorded with this ammunition overall.

IMI Razor Core 77gr

This load produced the second-best group and is currently the best group I have recorded with IMI Razor Core in my testing.

Black Hills 77gr (.223 Remington)

This ammunition produced the third-best group. While still a respectable result, I have generally observed this load to perform less consistently than other 77gr offerings, often at a higher price point.

Overall Impressions

Overall, I am very impressed with the Criterion 16" HBAR barrel.

The replacement barrel showed strong quality control during inspection, with proper chamber dimensions, tight headspace, and no significant bore defects. The gas system sizing also resulted in a smooth shooting experience.

On the range, the barrel delivered excellent accuracy across multiple match loads, including some standout performances with Federal Gold Medal Match and IMI Razor Core.

Based on both the inspection and the shooting results, the Criterion HBAR appears to be a well-built barrel capable of excellent real-world performance.