grim , the barrel is metal and plastic. the spacer and main bearing surface for the barrel recoil is all metal. the muzzle and forward barrel section is plastic. the actual airsoft barrel inside is machined 4150 steel.

steenv, shipping is free and we always insure, its included with the purchase price. we use usps, and have tracking numbers. we've had pretty good luck with the usps. give us a shout if you prefer ups or fedex and we'll see what we can do.