Depends on the caliber, twist, and rifling style you want, as well as Cro-Moly or Stainless. In general, Here's where I'd put the top 5 barrel makers today (not in order of recommendation, they're all good), without consideration of caliber/twist/style: Bartlein Kreiger Benchmark Lilja Hart From there, the good makers, with commentary: RKS - good option if you're in Canada. In US, not so much so; shipping, cost, difficulty to buy. Well recommended frequently by Schuetzendave here. Green Mountain - good for in stock stuff, economical, dependable. Caters to Cowboy action and BPCR somewhat with their stock. Some of their stuff is economy grade, some premium. Not really defined in their catalog which is which, but price give you a good clue. McGowen - good barrels, somewhat hit and miss on quality and service, depending on who you talk to. I've had good luck with them. BRC - More oriented to Schuetzen, up and coming, well liked here on ASSRA. Shilen - Old Standby. Excellent barrels within their usual range of operation. Douglas - Old Standby. Excellent barrels within their usual range of operation. Pac-Nor - Excellent barrels in my experience, somewhat limited in offerings since they're recovering from a major fire that wiped them out a while back. Mark Chanlynn- highly recommended by some builders, less market exposure. Broughton - well respected in benchrest, less market exposure Brux - well respected in benchrest, less market exposure Lothar Walther - well respected eurpopean, pain the rear to buy in US. I don't think you could go wrong with any of the above makers, if you bought a barrel within their normal production expertise. It really all depends on what you want, and pick a maker that can supply it at a price you can afford.
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