Melonite VS Chrome

[resident-shooter]

I was looking at M&P 15 rifles today and noticed that OP model is $150 more than sport and the only difference was that OP model had a different upper with more chrome. Is there a significant difference?

[cabinetguy]

melotanite is fine, there are specific needs for a chrome lined barrel, and most of us will never get to that point.

[SB30]

Another difference may be the dust cover. I don't think the sport comes with one.

[resident-shooter]

hmm looks like an average user wouldnt need any of the extras then

[WASR10]

The M&P15 Sport is an excellent rifle

[resident-shooter]

I don't doubt that, but how how much better if any, is OP model?

[SB30]

I just picked up an OP today. it was on sale. I figured the dust cover alone was worth it. Hunting small game in the brush and dirt.

[WASR10]

Some of the more expensive M&P15 models have chrome lined barrels instead of melonite, have dust covers, forward assists, and maybe different sights or lack there of, and a 1 in 9 barrel twist as opposed to the Sport's 1 in 8. None of it a big deal for my personal taste.

[resident-shooter]

me see....

[Mail Clerk]

I was looking at M&P 15 rifles today and noticed that OP model is $150 more than sport and the only difference was that OP model had a different upper with more chrome. Is there a significant difference?

I read an article recently regarding Melonite usage by Smith and Wesson. For myself I usually prefer the chrome but Melonite is suppose to be a cheaper method over chrome. The article continued to say that Melonite is just as good if not a little better than chrome. Based on this I wouldn't mind one myself for my AR-15 collection. I think you should too.

Mail Clerk

[resident-shooter]

Do u mind posting a link to the article? All I could find on other forums so far has been FUD, FUD, and a ton more FUD. Thanks

[Outta Control]

Here is one:

http://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=83136

I say that the increased reduction in friction or drag coefficient in the barrel can result in a better controlled spin for the bullet.

[resident-shooter]

Thanks. Interesting read.

[MrPlink]

The basic argument is melonite has less negative effect on rifling, which makes for better precision and accuracy, while chrome makes for better barrel life.
Counterpoint: howmuch more precision gained is arguable, esp on a platform that is a non-precision set up as is. And for chrome, the increased barrel life is only in context to the extreme strain created by sustained full auto fire, which is moot for your average shooter.
Conclusion: you are fine either way

[FeuerFrei]

Melonite science here