.223 Rem/5.56 NATO Barrels for AR-15s

The .223 Remington cartridge was developed in response to the need for a new lightweight military rifle — the firearm that would become the AR-15. From this relationship came the 5.56×45mm NATO, a slightly heavier-duty version of the .223 Rem capable of withstanding more pressure while maintaining the same dimensions. 

A barrel chambered for .223 can only shoot .223 ammunition, but a 5.56 barrel can handle either round. WMD Guns carries a selection of AR-15 barrels for sale chambered in 5.56 NATO — designated .223/5.56 — for shooters looking to make the most of both cartridges’ availability and accuracy. 

WMD Guns’ Barrel Length and Gas System Options

The .223/5.56 is viable for several hundred yards, maintaining its efficacy on small to medium game out to 300 and working well for target shooting out to 600. Some shooters even stretch beyond that. 

However, this round also excels in firearms intended for short-range applications. Fortunately, we sell 5.56 AR barrels in a range of lengths and gas system configurations so you can build a gun that fits your use case. Lengths we commonly stock include:

• 7.5”
• 10.5”
• 12.5”
• 16”
• 18”

Depending on the length you choose, you may have the option of a pistol-, carbine- or rifle-length gas setup. Different profiles are available as well, including the popular government profile that offers an excellent balance of light weight and rigidity.

Nitrided Barrel Options With Nickel Boron Extensions

We sell barrels coated with Nitromet™, a nitride treatment that affords 30% longer barrel life than a hard chrome lining. 

You’ll also find AR-15 barrels with nickel boron barrel extensions for enhanced performance. Adding our proprietary, naturally slick NiB-X® coating to a barrel extension promotes smoother locking and unlocking to keep your rig running reliably. 

WMD Guns nickel boron barrel extensions feature M4 feed ramps for fast, easy chambering, allowing your firearm to make the most of the coating’s lubricity and durability. 

Order Your Next AR-15 Barrel Online

At WMD, you’ll find a range of AR barrels for sale so you can put together your perfect rig. We’ve got long barrels for ringing steel at distance as well as compact designs ready for integration into a short-barreled rifle.  

We also carry bolt carrier groups, gas system components, furniture and everything else you need for your next AR-15 build. Order online today or get in touch with our team to ask questions or discuss custom requests.