McGowen Barrels Customer Service

[Idaho53]

Wanted to know if anyone has a direct contact for anyone at McGowen barrels? I placed an order for a custom barrel several months ago, and now I can get anyone from McGowen to respond many emails or phone calls about my order. Unfortunately, a quick internet search reveals several other customers having similar issues with McGowen's service. I know barrels companies are busy, but I have never been ignored by Shilen, Bartlein, Pac-Nor, etc. If anyone here knows how to get a response from McGowen, please share. In the meantime, I would caution anyone considering buying a McGowen barrel until they sort out their issues. Never had this issue before Dan retired...

 

[RL338]

I’m in the same boat. I’m out to 6.5 months on my 458 barrel. When I ordered it lead times were 8-12 weeks , now they’re showing 4-12 months. I’ve seen the internet chatter also.
I have several weeks of vacation starting tomorrow and load development was on the plate for the 458.
I have a recent Shilen barrel on order which I believe I with see it first.

 

[TEXASforLIFE]

The 1st time I ordered from them ut took 1/2 a year (183 days). I ordered back in April 3 AR barrels as lead times were 8-14 weeks. I haven't tried contacting them. With the possibility of reamer issues and other tooling problems it will add to the time. I've read where people were past due times on x-cal barrels also. I'm waiting on 5 AR barrels from them. Could ve that 1 or both are waiting on blanks or the barrel they did for you needed to be redone? At least you're not waiting on Aero Precision parts. Email them once or more a day every day until you get a reply. If you feel they won't get it done then cancel the order and get a FULL refund. They'll try and change a restocking fee, but with your daily trying to contact them going without a reply your bank should be able to get all of your money back. So many barrel makers that don't hire at least 1 person to answer the fone is a shame! That's just bad business to me!

 

[salmonchaser]

I’ve worked with a smith, good with Ruger #1s he’s done two for me, took six months. But that was expected. Called him a couple weeks ago and he’s well over that time line. He’s not taking any more work right now. Thankfully PAC Nor still works on number ones, barrels onto the receiver. Stock fitting and trigger work are up to me. Pac nor is 6 months also. They do respond to emails and phone calls-every time so far.

 

[RL338]

I’ve worked with a smith, good with Ruger #1s he’s done two for me, took six months. But that was expected

I know the feeling of waiting , my 378 has been sitting at the ‘smith since Labor day. He does great work , just takes his time. Each rifle has taken about a year to get back. The best thing he is only 20+ miles away , no shipping.

 

[Slimfinn]

Been a couple years since i have gotten a barrel from them, don't recall any issues. And do remember calling them a few times

 

[RL338]

This afternoon I was able to speak with someone on the phone. I was told they did a major software update and now customers should be able to contact them. The number I called was (406) 755-4907 and option #2 for current orders.
He was apologetic about what was happening over the past couple of months. They are in the process of updating their tooling also. Unfortunately the tooling for my barrel has no estimate time. I’m guessing this barrel won’t be here for this years hunting season.

 

[NYDAN]

Bummer. I feel for you.

The lead time on the Brux barrel I ordered was 9 months, which is now. They now estimate next month - 10 months from the order date.

 

[Idaho53]

Bummer. I feel for you.

The lead time on the Brux barrel I ordered was 9 months, which is now. They now estimate next month - 10 months from the order date.

This afternoon I was able to speak with someone on the phone. I was told they did a major software update and now customers should be able to contact them. The number I called was (406) 755-4907 and option #2 for current orders.
He was apologetic about what was happening over the past couple of months. They are in the process of updating their tooling also. Unfortunately the tooling for my barrel has no estimate time. I’m guessing this barrel won’t be here for this years hunting season.

There are really improving with the back log and communication. Actually received my barrel today.

 

[TEXASforLIFE]

i've sent 3 emails in the last 2 months as no reply to any yet. i'll try the number tomorrow. i ordered a 22 and 25 creed barrels back on april 4th of '26 when lead time were 14-18 weeks or thereabouts. about a month after lead time went to 4-12 months. sounds like good news then!

 

[TackDriver284]

When I ordered a 30 inch Bartlien 6mm barrel from the manufacturer last year, they were right on point and said it takes about 9 months roughly to get that barrel sent to me, sales rep was on point and communication was professional and returned my call promptly. I have this barrel on my shelf for future use. I would order barrels ahead of time, before my barrels go south. Looks like I'll be ordering a new barrel for my 300 Win Mag. Havent decided which manufacturer yet, either Bartlien or Krieger. Currently, my smith is spinning a new 6mm Bartlien 29 inch X 1.25" on my 6BR / Impact Precision action, should be ready by Friday.

 

[RL338]

Bummer. I feel for you.

The lead time on the Brux barrel I ordered was 9 months, which is now. They now estimate next month - 10 months from the order date.

Last year I ordered a .375 barrel from Brux and in 15 days I had it in my hands. I thought that was outstanding.