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What Is a Chrome-Lined Barrel?

A chrome-lined barrel is a rifle barrel with a chrome-plated interior, as opposed to steel or stainless steel. Chrome or chromium plating is valued for its shiny appearance. It is also very resistant to corrosion. Experienced shooters value a chrome-lined barrel for its long-lasting accuracy and comparatively long lifespan. A chrome barrel is easier to clean than its steel or stainless-steel counterparts.

Breaking in a Chrome-Lined Barrel
- After 200 rounds the barrel's lining changes from its factory look -- a light, flat gray -- to the polished-silver appearance of chrome. Chrome-line barrels, unlike other barrels, do not require excessive cleaning.
Longer Life
- The lifespan of a chrome-lined barrel is nearly twice as long as other barrels. Chrome-lined barrels withstand up to 20,000 rounds. Non-chrome-lined barrels begin to deteriorate after 7,500 rounds.
Accuracy
- Chrome-lined barrels are marginally less accurate than some steel-lined barrels; however, the difference is minute and is only of importance to professional marksmen. Chrome-lined barrels generally maintain their degree of accuracy for up to 15,000 rounds.
Stainless Steel Versus Chrome-Lined
- A chrome-lined barrel's nearest equivalent in quality is a stainless-steel-lined barrel. Though a stainless-steel-lined barrel lasts far longer than a steel barrel, it still does not last as long as a chrome-lined barrel. Stainless steel barrels are slightly more accurate and cheaper. The lifespan of a chrome-lined barrel -- and its ease of maintenance -- often justifies the higher price paid by discriminating shooters.

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