Barrel sinkers are popular among estuary anglers working light running sinker rigs, where the main line is threaded through the sinker and left unattached, so it can move more freely. The slim profile also makes them an optimum lead for casting or when trolling to keep a lure or bait down; some anglers even use them as a high-speed lure, running a treble behind them. They bury more easily in sand or mud than ball sinkers when less movement is desirable.

They are often positioned either running directly to the hook, or restricted to running along the main line above a swivel connection. Smaller sizes are used as slim-profile weights on float rigs.