The present invention relates broadly to an injection molding machine and more particularly to a force isolating barrel and carriage assembly for use in an injection unit of an injection molding machine. Conventional barrels and carriages direct axial carriage force through the entire length of the barrel. Reactive injection force is also directed through the entire length of the barrel. A barrel and carriage assembly is disclosed for isolating a barrel from axial forces. In one aspect of the invention, the entire barrel is isolated from axial carriage force. In another aspect of the invention, a portion of the barrel is isolated from axial carriage force. In another aspect of the invention, a portion of the barrel is isolated from reactive injection force.