Was just watching http://www.christensenarms.com/tvshow.htm on the Outdoor Channel and they showed an 7-08 carbon fiber Encore barrel. I don't see any information on their web site.
Anyone heard of these?
Greg

Greg,
Check out VVCG. There not cheap though. About 8 or 900 bucks last I heard.

They will make one out of Oak a lot cheaper though.



Regards

OK, i am usually the guy that asks "why not" when asked "why" but in this case I AM ASKIN, WHY??

I realize that for certain applications where large volumes of ammo is expended it (heat build up) would be a benefit but for the most part, i prefer the barrel heavy feel of these pistols. Thus, my question of "why"?

Most customers who buy the barrels this way do it for the weight factor. They are extremely light. And yes, they are very expensive.

There are always a few out there who want something completely different too. To those people cost is no object.

It's never made a whole lot of sense to me either, but quite a few people request it.

I think the whole carbon fiber application is pretty cool. Incredibly strong tensile strength and heat resistant to 2900F. Different manufacturing methods really interest me. I do quite a bit of work/tooling/molds for carbon fiber applications. Believe me when I tell you that the cost of the base carbon fiber material is way up there. In thinking of other fields of use, think of satellite, space shuttle, jet engine, and stealth bomber. This stuff has been around a lot longer than you would think. This is the same stuff, if you had a (500) strand group which feels like hair, would break if tied in a simple not before you would even feel it tighten.

FWIW,

I know for certain military applications they are looking at ceramic, or ceramic-lined barrels. Being a ceramic engineer, I've always been interested in these. They will virtually,never wear out, heat doesn't bother them, and they'll never rust. Downside is they are brittle. I'm wondering when this technology will make it's way to sporting guns.
Greg