CMC Triggers AR Barrel — 5.56 NATO, 16", Black (BBL556003)
Build a do-everything AR with the CMC Triggers 16" 5.56 NATO barrel. This black finished, 16-inch barrel is engineered for dependable accuracy, repeatable zero, and long service life—ideal for duty-ready carbines, training rifles, and general-purpose builds. Whether you’re running irons, a red dot, or a low-power variable optic, BBL556003 gives you the balance of velocity, handling, and durability modern shooters expect.
Model / SKU: BBL556003 | UPC: 850040016949
Caliber: 5.56 NATO (also compatible with .223 Rem)
Why Choose the CMC 16" 5.56 Barrel
Balanced Length for All-Purpose Builds
16 inches is the sweet spot for AR carbines—efficient velocity, manageable blast, and excellent handling for drills, hunting, and home defense.
5.56 NATO Chambering
Run both 5.56 NATO and .223 Rem safely. The NATO chamber handles duty loads and varied ammo types with confidence.
Precision Machining
CMC’s tight tolerances support consistent bore geometry and a clean crown for repeatable accuracy across a wide range of bullet weights.
Durable Black Finish
A low-glare, corrosion-resistant exterior helps the barrel shrug off weather, sweat, and range abuse while matching most AR receivers and handguards.
Ready for Modern Accessories
Standard AR interfaces let you add your choice of muzzle device, gas block, handguard, and optics without guesswork.
Builder’s Note: Common specs for 16" 5.56 barrels include 1/2x28 muzzle threads and a mid-length or carbine-length gas system. Always verify your exact barrel’s gas length, thread pattern, profile, twist rate, and finish on the product label before ordering accessories.
Key Features at a Glance
Length: 16"
Caliber: 5.56 NATO (shoots .223 Rem)
Finish: Black, low-glare, corrosion-resistant
Platform: AR-15 pattern receivers
Intended Use: General-purpose carbine, training, defense, range, and field
Model / SKU: BBL556003
UPC: 850040016949
Real-World Advantages
Velocity + Control: 16" balances muzzle velocity for flatter trajectories with a controllable recoil impulse for faster follow-ups.
Do-All Setup: From 0–300 yards and beyond (with proper zero and ammo), 16" supports practical accuracy for most real-world carbine tasks.
Parts Compatibility: Plays well with common gas blocks, handguards, and muzzle devices so you can tailor backpressure, recoil, and flash signature.
Ideal Use Cases
Training & Carbine Classes: Reliable performance for high round counts and varied drills.
Home & Property Defense: Effective with red dots, WMLs, and defensive 5.56 loads.
Competition & PCC-Style Stages: Quick transitions and predictable recoil management.
Field & Utility Rifle: Versatile enough for varmints, predators, and ranch carry (where legal and appropriate).
Setup & Compatibility Tips
Confirm Specs First: Check gas system length, muzzle threads, twist rate, and profile on your barrel’s label for correct parts pairing.
Gas System Tuning: Match gas length and port with a quality gas block (adjustable if desired) and buffer/spring combo; re-tune if adding a suppressor.
Proper Torque & Alignment: Use the correct barrel nut torque and ensure the gas block is centered over the port; verify no handguard interference.
Muzzle Device Fit: Most 5.56 devices are 1/2x28—confirm before installing brakes, comps, flash hiders, or suppressor mounts.
Zero for Your Load: Re-zero with your intended ammunition; short changes in ammo or mount height can shift POI.
Care & Maintenance
Initial Prep: Clean the bore before first use to remove oils or packing residues.
Routine Cleaning: Use proper 5.56/.223 jags, patches, and solvent; clean from the chamber forward to protect the crown.
Heat Management: Allow cooling during heavy strings; heat cycles affect throat life on any barrel.
Thread & Crown Protection: Use a thread protector or mounted device and avoid muzzle-first cleaning without a guide.
Safety & Compliance
Ammo: Use factory, SAAMI-spec ammunition. Over-gassed setups or very hot loads can accelerate wear—tune accordingly.
Local Laws: Understand state and local regulations regarding overall length, muzzle devices, and features.
Hearing/Eye Protection: 5.56 is loud—especially indoors. Always wear proper PPE.
Specifications
(For exact twist rate, gas length, muzzle thread, contour, and material specs, consult the current product label or retailer’s detailed spec sheet for this SKU.)
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Final Take
If you want a reliable, all-purpose 16" carbine barrel that pairs modern performance with straightforward compatibility, the CMC Triggers AR Barrel 5.56 NATO 16" (BBL556003) is a rock-solid choice. Verify your build specs, mount quality components, and enjoy a carbine that runs clean, stays zeroed, and performs across training, defense, and everyday range work.
"The End"
