Enhanced metal-metal-matrix composite weapon barrels

A weapon barrel comprising:

• an inner core having a first end, a second end, a bore extending from the first end to the second end, and an external surface extending from the first end to the second end, the inner core having an internal core and an intermediate layer, the internal core including a material selected from the group consisting of a ferrous alloy, a non-ferrous alloy, a ceramic, a bonded ceramic, and a cemented carbide;
• and
• an outer sleeve having a first end, a second end, an internal surface extending from the first end to the second end, and an external surface extending from the first end to the second end, the outer sleeve being disposed around and permanently joined to the inner core, the intermediate layer being located between an outer surface of the internal core and the outer sleeve to facilitate the connection between the outer sleeve and the internal core, wherein the outer sleeve includes a material selected from the group consisting of a metal-matrix composite and a beryllium alloy, the outer sleeve material being located at and between the internal surface and the external surface of the outer sleeve.