Heh Joe,
Where are you going with that gun in your hand? ~ Jimmy Hendrix
jk jk jk Try hypodermic needles. Ones at drug stores come in various sizes and lengths, better yet are ones used by veterinarians. I stopped in and after explaining they were for hobbies they sold me a dozen for 1.60$! Being stainless steel you won't need to paint them, or if you do the terrible 'brass chip' will not happen. I color mine with a lighter, heat will anneal the metal for a cool darker look.
Shown above is a 1/48 scale .50 BMG barrel.