Self Defense

Barrett REC-10

Rugged reliability and typical Barrett fit and finish

Barrett has long been known for its focus on form, function and operation in harsh conditions. Their primary client is the military, so they tend to build to suit their needs. Testing my first REC-7 in 2009, it was simple, robust, accurate and ran 6.8 SPC like a champ. When the REC-7 was revamped in 2013 it was much more refined, one of the nicest ARs you could get while maintaining its focus on hard use in any condition, and their REC-7 DI was equally as impressive. When their 7.62 NATO version (REC-10) was announced there was little surprise it would be designed and built to meet the most demanding user.

Precision machined billet receivers house fully ambidextrous controls, a TB-41-DLC coated bolt-carrier group that exceeds Mil-Spec and a crisp and clean ALG QMS trigger group.

Barrett REC-10

I was introduced to the REC-10 last year during a media event. Borrowing the quality and attention to detail from the REC-7, it was impressive. Light, accurate, without the recoil many direct impingement AR-10 rifles have. Testing has since confirmed my initial impressions: it is an excellent 7.62 NATO rifle, suited for use by professionals or enthusiasts alike.

The contour matching M-LOK handguard covers a button rifled, 16-inch Chrome Moly Vanadium barrel with a chrome lined bore, mid-length gas system, effective 3-prong flash hider and 1:10” twist. Magpul MBUS sights come standard.

Designed to compete abroad in military trials, the REC-10 is purpose built to function in combat. Simple, strong and reliable, it starts with precision machined billet receivers for strength and durability. Its matching hand guard utilizes M-LOK slots and covers a button rifled 16-inch Chrome Moly Vanadium barrel with a chrome lined bore and 1:10” twist. Its mid-length gas system keeps it soft shooting, cool running and its flash hider keeps flash to a minimum. The gas block is solidly mounted, eliminating movement or failure under hard use.

An adjustable Magpul MOE stock and handgrip take up the rear. An oversized Radian charging handle helps provide extra leverage to overcome the stiffer AR-10 (as compared to an AR-15) recoil spring. One 20-round Magpul PMAG is included.

The bolt carrier group exceeds Mil-Spec and is coated in TB-41-DLC for smooth and clean operation. Controls are ambidextrous and include a Radian charging handle and safety. The trigger is an ALG QMS—crisp, no creep, yet suitable for duty or professional use. Magpul rounds out the package with their MOE stock, grip, 20-round magazine and back up sights.

Testing

The author’s best 100-yard group measured an impressive 0.65-inch, printed using Hornady’s 155-grain BTHP American Defense. All other ammo grouped under 1.25 inches.

The bulk of testing was completed using Trijicon’s 1-8X VCOG. The VCOG builds on Trijicon’s legacy of providing the strongest combat optics you can buy. With its MRAD reticle, it can be used with any caliber and platform. It matches the rugged and reliable function of the Barrett REC-10 perfectly.

Range Time

Accuracy with the REC-10 was excellent, with my best group measuring 0.65-inch using Hornady 155-grain BTHP American Defense. Everything else grouped under 1.25 inches, including Black Hills 178-grain ELDM load. Overall, it seemed to favor the 155-grain loads, but all ammo provided excellent performance.