Daniel Defense 5.56 16" Lightweight Mid-Length CHF Barrel 1:7 Twist
Daniel Defense
$357.69
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Daniel Defense
Daniel Defense 5.56 16" Lightweight Mid-Length CHF Barrel 1:7 Twist
The Daniel Defense 5.56 16" Lightweight Mid-Length Cold Hammer Forged Barrel delivers exceptional accuracy and long-term durability for AR-15 builds demanding military-grade performance. With a 1:7 twist rate and chrome-lined bore, this barrel is engineered to handle sustained fire and a wide range of 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition.
- Cold hammer forged construction ensures a defect-free, ultra-consistent bore
- Chrome-lined interior resists corrosion, heat, and wear for extended service life
- 1:7 twist rate stabilizes heavy projectiles including 62gr and 77gr bullets
- Mid-length gas system reduces felt recoil and improves overall shooting reliability
- 1/2×28 TPI muzzle threads accept standard AR-15 muzzle devices and suppressors
- Lightweight profile keeps your build nimble without sacrificing rigidity or accuracy
Who This Is For
This barrel is ideal for serious AR-15 builders, competitive shooters, and home defenders who want a premium, duty-grade component without cutting corners. Whether you're assembling a precision-oriented mid-length rifle or upgrading an existing upper, Daniel Defense's cold hammer forged barrel provides the reliability and accuracy professionals trust — all in a lightweight package suited for both range work and tactical applications.
Specifications
| Brand | Daniel Defense |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO / .223 Remington |
| Barrel Length | 16 inches |
| Profile | Lightweight |
| Construction | Cold Hammer Forged (CHF) |
| Bore Lining | Chrome Lined |
| Twist Rate | 1:7 Right-Hand |
| Gas System | Mid-Length |
| Muzzle Threading | 1/2×28 TPI |
| Extension | M4 Feed Ramp Compatible |
| Platform | AR-15 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What advantages does cold hammer forging offer over a standard button-rifled barrel?
Cold hammer forging uses opposing carbide steel hammers under intense hydraulic pressure to shape the barrel around a precision mandrel, simultaneously forming the chamber, lands, and grooves. This process compresses and aligns the steel's grain structure, resulting in a harder, more consistent bore than button rifling. The outcome is superior accuracy potential, significantly longer barrel life, and virtually zero bore defects — qualities that have made CHF the standard in military-issued rifles around the world.
What bullet weights does the 1:7 twist rate stabilize best?
A 1:7 right-hand twist is optimized for heavier 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington projectiles in the 62–77 grain range, including M855 (62gr green tip) and the popular 77gr OTM match loads. It will also adequately stabilize standard 55gr FMJ ammunition for general range use. If your primary loads are lighter 40–50gr varmint bullets, note that a faster twist can occasionally over-stabilize very light projectiles, though for most uses this is a non-issue.
Why choose a mid-length gas system over carbine-length on a 16" barrel?
On a 16" barrel, a mid-length gas system places the gas port farther down the barrel than a carbine-length system, allowing more pressure to dissipate before the gas enters the tube. This translates to a softer, slower bolt carrier velocity, reduced felt recoil, less wear on the bolt and carrier group, and improved reliability across a wide range of ammunition and suppressor configurations. Mid-length is widely considered the ideal gas system length for 16" AR-15 builds.
