CONTOUR #3 BARREL Reviews & Ratings
Reviews Summary
The CONTOUR #3 BARREL has a mixed reception from users. Many praise its excellent accuracy and consistency, often achieving sub-MOA performance. However, some express dissatisfaction with the barrel’s finish and fouling issues, leading to concerns over quality control. While some commend its machining and value, others recommend looking at alternative brands before purchasing.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Product Performance
60%
Many reviewers highlight the impressive accuracy and consistency of the CONTOUR #3 BARREL, often achieving sub-MOA groups with various loads. Users note that once properly chambered, the barrel performs admirably, making it a respected choice among custom rifle builders.
Quality Control
40%
A significant concern mentioned by several reviewers is the inconsistent quality of the barrel's finish and internal machining. Issues such as excessive tool marks and fouling in the bore surfaced in multiple reviews, leading some to question the overall quality standard of the product.
Comparison with Other Brands
30%
Some users suggest that there are superior alternatives to the Shilen barrels. While many are happy with their results, others feel that spending more on a different brand might yield a more consistent and reliable performance, indicating a divide in customer satisfaction.
Ease of Use
50%
Reviewers appreciated the ease of threading and chambering of the barrel, often remarking that it doesn't require extensive break-in time and cleans up easily after use. This positive feedback highlights the user-friendly aspect of the barrel, aiding a smoother shooting experience.
Fouling Concerns
35%
Several reviews raised issues with barrel fouling, indicating that some users experienced significant copper fouling after minimal use. This detracts from the overall shooting experience and raises concerns about the long-term maintenance of the barrel.
First time using a Shilen barrel....
I always heard good things about Shilen barrels but had never tried one. This one is on my personal hunting rifle, a custom 260Rem Model 700. First and foremost, the barrel shoots excellent. It is the #3 contour, which is just about the same external dimensions as most factory sporter weight barrels. It does not walk after 30 shots and being warm enough to make me stop and let it cool. The first group out of the barrel was great and other than a little copper fouling I have to say it really doesn't require alot of break in. I own a borescope and I was surprised to see alot of tool marks in the bore. In fact, on looks alone I was going to send it back and order someone elses barrel, but didn't want to wait. Honestly, the bore doesn't look any better than the typical factory Remington barrel. But, in all fairness to Shilen the barrel definately shoots better than it looks internally. Given the number of tool marks in the bore I would have expected it to foul with copper alot worse too, but it really does seem to clean out pretty easy and without alot of time and effort. Bottom line is that if I though I could get another one that shoots as good as this one I would buy another Shilen barrel. If you own or have access to a borescope do not be surprised when you look down that bore and see alot of tool marks. But, also dont be surprised if the barrel shoots very good groups anyway.

