i am in the process of trying to pick a barrel for my first AR build, and i am trying to find out if the daniel defense 14.5" barrel is a good choice. i have read some mixed reviews on other forums, so im posting here so that i can make a well informed decision.
thanks
link to barrel in question http://www.danieldefense.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=216
There are a bunch of “new to AR” build advice threads on M4C, but my brother has two DD 14.5" midlengths (with pinned muzzle devices to bring them over 16"- VERY important) and they are fantastic barrels. Hammer forged and their rifling won’t be shot out anytime soon.
Is there any particular reason why you want to go with a carbine length gas system?
im leaning more towards the carbine length because i like the look and feel better. im not opposed to a mid-length though. i have heard that on a 14.5" barrel a carbine length gas system is more reliable than a mid-length on the same barrel. i dont know how much truth that statement actually holds however.
i am taking things slowly as this is my first ar build. i would rather do things right and build a quality rifle than rush into things without doing research, asking questions and building a pos rifle.
The 14.5" barrels from DD and BCM will serve you well. The mid-length gas system is the big thing right now, but the carbine system is still a perfectly good option. With everyone wanting to swap what they have for a mid-length barrel, you might do good to keep an eye on the equipment exchange.
I have been quite happy with DD and a carbine gas system on 3 rifles, but those are 16 inchers. I have ordered a custom upper with a DD 14.5 bbl, and carbine gas. I guess this means DD has served well for me so far.
To date I have not heard any negative feedback about DD barrels. Did you hear anything on other forums that was actually substantiated?
I went with a DD 14.5" carbine LW for a retro-ish CAR-15 build.
There CS was fantastic (the bbl I wanted was out of stock at the time).
Hard to beat a CHF bbl IMO…but there are “those” who (incorrectly) think that since the CHF process is a high-volume process, that it somehow makes the bbls less desireable.
The midlength system on a 14.5" bbl offers more gas dwell time, IIRC.
Go with the 14.5 you’ll Love it. I got Colt M4 upper with a
12.5 Daniel D omega X Rail, Plenty of rail space, And Its better for tight places And It just Looks Bad Arse!
Drty…
My most recent project included a DD 14.5 Mid-Length and it is awesome !! I have put quite a few rounds down it (1200/1500) and it just seems to get better the more I shoot it. Good choice for sure ! 
DD is top tier and you will not be dissapointed with their barrels, or anything else they make for that matter; and if you are, their CS dept. will make it better for you, best CS dept. I have ever dealt with. Get it and have fun shooting the shit out of it!!!
I would not pay any mind to any “Mixed Reviews”. Daniel Defense makes one of the absolute top quality barrels in the industry. Hands down, end of discussion.
thanks for all the help guys. i ended up getting a 16" midlength from skd since they have them for a good price. now all i need is my larue handguard to showup and i will be golden. thanks again