I recently purchased two blemished 16" mid-length AR-15 complete uppers. They came with different barrels. One barrel has “5.56 NATO 1:7” stamped in the muzzle end. The other barrel has “5.56 NATO 1/7 FREEDOM” laser engraved on the muzzle end. The non-FREEDOM barrel looks like it was turned in lathe, as it has very fine turning marks, while the FREEDOM barrel is smooth. In addition, the non-FREEDOM barrel does not have a step at the muzzle end, where the flash suppressor attaches. Both have a nitride finish. Does anyone know what the difference is in the two barrels?
It sounds like one is the freedom series and one is the classic. Not sure on the actual manufacturing specifics.
What’s the difference between the freedom series and the classic?
I dont remember all the specifics as PSA has changed their lineup. They used to be (or have gone in a similar order to):
Classic
Freedom
Premium
PSA Custom
There also has been other categories, and even other brands such as Ptac. Generally the Premium line comes with FN CHF barrels. Classic and Freedom had phosphate and nitride if i remember that correctly.
You also have different barrel profiles, not sure if they have anything to do with the above line or just how they have made them (pencil, m4, tapered, etc.)
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Thanks for the info. Is there any difference in quality between the Classic and Freedom barrels, or is it just a difference in profiles? Without taking the handguard off, the only profile difference I see is the step on the muzzle of the Freedom barrel, where the flash suppressor screws on.
I am not sure. All of the barrels (except FN) are made at DC Machine, their sister company. They make good stuff.
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