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Hi Anthony and welcome. The only advantage is barrel stiffness and less harmonics when firing for slightly better accuracy. Not enough to make a major difference in my opinion though. Cheers and stay safe!

Anthony, Yes. An octagon is usually heavier than a round barrel, and that means it heats up slower. The extra metal also makes it stiffer, less prone to harmonics distortion. Plus the extra weight will help dampen recoil but the down fall is they're heavier and especially if you plan on hunting with it every ounce makes a difference. So slightly more accurate but doubt enough the average person can tell the difference and downfall is weight. So depends what you plan on using it for. For hunting I'd recommend a round barrel. For shooting paper/gongs I'd recommend octagon. Hope this helps.

Anthony, Don't know that there is an actual "advantage" of an octagon over a round barrel other than usually they are slightly heavier/thicker than a round barrel. Octagons are usually installed on firearms to obtain a classic look. From Henry - The flat surface will help one keep the barrel straight and not slanted when aiming. An octagon barrel has but one advantage-- it calls attention to any canting or sideways tilting of the barrel when in the act of aiming. Stay safe & have a great day!