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14.5 pinned is a good way to say screw you to the nfa.

Other than length and muzzle velocity there isn't too much.  You could get really technical and go into gas system lengths, but that doesn't even matter.

For all practical purposes the only big difference is that it is more difficult to change out the rifles configuration with a permed muzzle device. 

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14.5 looks better with bayonet, but can't change muzzle device easily.

16 is easier if you want to change the flashhider or FSB.....or add a compensator.

If you don't plan to do any mods, the 14.5 is okay.

The 16 is the safer bet IMHO

For me and my friend, the 14.5 are fine since the only reason we own AR's is to know how to run them.  We like AK's better since they are easier to clean and cheaper

Hopefully if I retire to the mainland I'll convert it to piston/sbr/300 black out/suppressor/10" barrel.

For me and my friend, the 14.5 are fine since the only reason we own AR's is to know how to run them.  We like AK's better since they are easier to clean and cheaper

Hopefully if I retire to the mainland I'll convert it to piston/sbr/300 black out/suppressor/10" barrel.

It's funny to note that tim808 always makes a point to say that AK is easier to cleanand cheaper.
lol!

Because it's true - at least about the cleaning part. :-)

Now that there are cheap AR's, the AR's are just about as cheap as an AK.  I'm thinking the DI nitrided M&P Sporter vs a converted piston Saiga from J&G  (but yeah I'd still get the Saiga)

The AR bug is slowly getting to me.  I just ordered 10 stripped lowers :-)

Now to buy some of that "miracle cleaner" -  fireclean - so I can stop moaning about what an okole an AR is to clean.

Because it's true - at least about the cleaning part. :-)

Now that there are cheap AR's, the AR's are just about as cheap as an AK.  I'm thinking the DI nitrided M&P Sporter vs a converted piston Saiga from J&G  (but yeah I'd still get the Saiga)

The AR bug is slowly getting to me.  I just ordered 10 stripped lowers :-)

Now to buy some of that "miracle cleaner" -  fireclean - so I can stop moaning about what an okole an AR is to clean.

I've been using Fireclean for over a year not and it's legit.  It's not a "miracle cleaner" but it does make cleaning of the treated parts a lot easier and also is an excellent lube.  I've used it in 90+ heat and humidity of Hawaii and in sub 20 degree snowy weather of Alaska and it's worked great. 

IMO, issues or comparison of ease or how well AKs or ARs deal with being dirty or ease of cleaning is usually blown way out of proportion.  I've had ARs that have gone through thousands of rounds without ammo related stoppages.  Yeah, in general AKs can take the abuse, but ARs can take quite a lot as well if you keep them properly lubed. 

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If you have more than one AR, then I would opt for a 14.5 with a pinned muzzle device.
If its your one and only, then like mentioned before, a 16 would be the safer way to go.

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If you only got 1 rifle then go 16 you can play with different flash hider, compensator, and muzzle brakes out there.

Now if you got another rifle or 2nd upper then make that one into 14.5.....

Hmmm... I think I just heard my wallet curse you, gsmgc! 

LOL, my own wallet has been cursing me for quite a while now. 

One pro for the 14.5 is if you were trying to build a light AR and trying to shave off as much weight as possible

No rails, no optic and a 14.5 lightweight (pencil)  barrel would be a little more easy to maneuver

Never found any differences in accuracy based on the same barrel.
Either heavy or m4 from the same brand of barrels.

This was done a few years back at 100 yards. with a 4-16x50 Scope.

Never found any differences in accuracy based on the same barrel.
Either heavy or m4 from the same brand of barrels.

of course you won't when you shoot with no sights