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.
Barrel
Easy to thread and chamber ! Put it on a Ruger 77 in 30-06 . Shoots very well.
great barrel
Shilen Barrels are among the best out there.
great barrels
I have installed Shilen barrels on 6 rifles and all have been MOA or Sub-MOA groupers with not only handloads but also factory ammo. Finish beautifully and great machining ease.
Great barrel
I chambered this barrel in 6.5-06 A-Square, put an 11 degree crown on it, put it on a commercial Mauser receiver, then headed to the range. 45.5gr of H4350 behind a 140gr Accubond bullet into .32 inches center to center. I fired a total of 36 rounds in about an hour, testing loads. None of the loads tested, from 44 gr up to 48gr had a three shot group greater than an inch. Cleanup was a snap, with very little copper fouling. Every time a customer wants me to build a hunting rifle, this is the barrel I will use.
Great barrels
Built over 20 custom rifles using this brand of barrel. I built a custom 6mm on a ruger action. I shoot the 70 gr nosler B.T. very accurat, use: hunt coyotes. have over 1000 rounds through it, still shoots good I wish Brownells would carry the faster twist barrel. so a guy wouldn't have to go through the Co. Also very nice to machine
Great Barrel/very accurate
Put on mauser 98, chambered in 6.5x55. Average 5 shot group(3/4 inch. Handloads not factory ammo. Shot great out of the gate. 200 rounds through it.

