Excellent 11.5" (first look) - Criterion Barrels AR-15 SBR Core Threaded Barrel

Bought this based off of the good professional reviews. IME the 11.5" is the perfect combination of compact and smooth shooting.

Fit and finish is first class, inside and out. Using a bore scope, the chamber and bore was smooth and uniform. Checks out with what I had been hearing. The gas port was drilled right into the center of the rifling groove which is ideal. The single dimple lined up the gas block and tube perfectly. This aided in perfect carrier key alignment (I used a BCM block and SOLGW tube; both are excellent). Crown and chamber was perfect.

Physically, the balance of this Core SBR contour is distinct and I'm sure it will help with handling. I used a BCM4 thermal fit upper receiver and the Criterion barrel extension allowed for a very tight install (using a torch and heat gun). The feed ramps lined up perfectly with the upper's M4 cuts. Dry fitting a BCG was butter. Lock up was super smooth. Muzzle device went on with very little wiggle on the threads. Nice. No issues encountered.

Everything related to the barrel for inspection and install was perfect. I was particularly impressed with the gas system alignment. Often the carrier key will rub a little on the tube so to get it perfect requires a little bending. Not with this barrel. IMO, that's what a $300 should give you but I've had $450 barrels having slight issues so maybe this was a lucky build. Overall, I'm very happy with the value so far. Now, off to the range to verify that legendary Criterion accuracy!