How Many Rounds For Barrel Break-In

[milehipo]

Ok here's the question
I have a(SSK) AR-15 10" Upper on a RRA Lower Receiver. I am shooting this with a AAC Cyclone Silencer. The optics are a Nikon Monarch 4-16 with a Mildot reticle and Burris steel rings. All is tight and has never had to be retightened since build. Silencer is on tight as well.
The powders I have used are AA 1680,AA#9,and Hodgen H110. I am using Sierra 220 HPBT bullets. Loading for Subsonic use.
My loads are AA#9 8.6gr, AA1680 10.30gr, Hodgen H110 9.1gr.
Load developement done outside, off bench at 100 yards, no wind 65 degrees.
My best group was with AA1680 just under 1+1/2.
COAL is just under PMAG fitment(2.240)
I have about 150 rounds since new build.
How many rounds before barrel is broken in?
Should I be happy with this group?
Should I try a lighter bullet(175)?
Should I increase the load increaments?
SHOULD I START DRINKING!!!

[i8asquirrel]

Try buing some of the TUBBS FINAL FINISH bullets from midway or brownells I use them on all my rifles...have had very good luck.... you might try some 4227 powder also.

[Hoser]

Some barrels just like different powders more than others.

Play with some other powders and see if things get better.

Are you in Colorado?

[milehipo]

Originally Posted by Hoser

Some barrels just like different powders more than others.

Play with some other powders and see if things get better.

Are you in Colorado?

I am in the Denver Metro area

[Spook]

mhp, 220 hornady rn's and vvn 110. I'm @ 9.5 gr.

[SDB777]

Have you put a bore scope down the tube to see?

I would only think that an aftermarket barrel would/should already be lapped to remove any machining marks. Given that, shouldn't the barrel be at it's best already and with each additional shot fired be starting to wear out? Making a 'barrel break-in' a waste of barrel life......

See where this is going?
I have used the 'barrel break-in' on new barrels. Shoot one, clean, shoot two, clean....etc. After 30 rounds, I typically have a pretty good idea if the load I made is going to be a shooter or not. If not, I go and make some adjustments and try again.
I have also used 'no barrel break-in' method on new barrels. And to tell you the truth, I haven't seen a whole lot of difference! Of course this could be due to several factors. After all, how can you possibly check which method actually works on one barrel?!?!?



Good luck with your load development!

Scott