Do you feel stuck when choosing between 16 VS 14.5 AR15 barrel length.
Some believe that a 14.5 inch barrel provides significantly better maneuverability in tight spaces due to its shorter length. While it's true that a shorter barrel might make the rifle slightly more compact, the difference may not be as significant as assumed. If it's not for the NFA laws in the U.S, most short barrel rifle users would go for a barrel length shorter than the 14.5" for the optimal maneuverability in very tight spaces.
We can agree that someone building a 14.5" AR15 isn't looking for a sub moa long range accuracy. In terms of building a fighting rifle that can shoot close and mid range. Both options are valid. However, there are some subtle things to know about a legal 14.5" barrel build.
Legal Considerations: The 16-Inch Rule and SBRs
Under U.S. NFA (National Firearms Act) federal law, in order for a rifle to remain unregulated, it must feature a barrel length of at least 16 inches (From chamber to the muzzle). Anything below that threshold falls into the realm of short-barrel rifles (SBRs), which require a cumbersome federal registration process and a hefty $200 tax stamp. Additionally, some states have restrictions on SBRs, complicating matters for firearm owners.
However, an innovative alternative to both the 16 inch barrel and SBR dilemma has emerged in the form of the AR pistol market, which allows for the attachment of a brace instead of a traditional stock.
While this alternative opens up new possibilities, the focus of this article is on the decision between pinning and welding a muzzle device or going with a 16 inch barrel for those who prefer a more traditional rifle setup.
This is why the 14.5 inch barrel plus the length of the muzzle device (at least 1.5") is a way to get to the legal 16 inch requirement. There are also other configuration with 13.7 inch barrel with pinned and welded muzzle, if the muzzle device is long enough.
Pinning and Welding vs. 16-Inch Barrel: Exploring the Options
Pinning and Welding
Pinning and welding is a technique that has gained traction among firearm enthusiasts seeking to achieve the desired 16-inch barrel length without compromising maneuverability. This method involves permanently attaching a muzzle device, such as a brake or compensator, to a shorter barrel.
Credit Charlies
The primary advantage of pinning and welding lies in the creation of a compact, lightweight rifle that meets the 16-inch requirement. This is particularly attractive to those who value mobility and want to avoid the complexities associated with registering an SBR. This method offers a practical compromise that provides the shortest legal length without the hassle of additional paperwork.
However, there are trade-offs to consider. When you pin and weld a muzzle device, you're essentially committing to the chosen configuration. The muzzle device, gas block, and handguard all become fixed components that cannot be easily replaced or modified without specialized tools and expertise.
This limitation might be acceptable for those who have a clear preference, but it restricts the ability to customize the rifle's components.
The 16-Inch Barrel: Freedom and Flexibility
On the other side of the spectrum, we have the option of going with a 16 inch barrel and attaching a muzzle device of your choice. This actually end up being about 17.5 or 18 inches total. This approach offers unparalleled flexibility when it comes to personalizing your firearm setup. You can easily swap out muzzle devices, gas blocks, and handguards to suit your preferences and shooting style.
The main advantage of this approach is the freedom to adapt and modify your rifle as you see fit. Whether you're experimenting with different accessories, upgrading components, or simply tailoring the rifle to your evolving needs, the 16-inch barrel configuration provides the canvas for continuous customization.
While the overall length of the rifle may be slightly longer due to the attachment of the muzzle device, this difference of around an inch might not be significant for many shooters. The added flexibility and adaptability often outweigh the minor increase in length.
14.5 VS 16 Velocity
A longer barrel results in a greater velocity. Multiple factors contribute to permutations, including bullet weight, twist rate, powder charge, gas system, and temperature, all of which can impact the velocity. But in the context of just using standard 55 grain bullet.
The 16 inch barrel has slightly higher bullet velocity, which can affect point of impact if shooting a 14.5 inch barrel further out.
For more please check out this thread on sniperhide.com
Another good resource is this one on M4Carbine.net
Making the Decision: Factors to Consider
When it comes down to choosing between pinning and welding a muzzle device or sticking with a 16-inch barrel, several factors come into play. Here's a quick rundown of key considerations:
- Maneuverability: If mobility and ease of movement are critical, pinning and welding can provide a compact rifle while adhering to legal requirements.
- Customization: Opting for a 16-inch barrel allows you to personalize your firearm's components to suit your shooting preferences, without being locked into a specific configuration.
- Ease of Modification: Pinned and welded setups limit your ability to modify components without specialized tools and expertise. With a 16-inch barrel, you retain the freedom to make changes as needed.
- Regulatory Concerns: Pinning and welding bypasses the need for SBR registration and the associated paperwork. If avoiding the hassle of legal paperwork is a priority, this might be the route for you.