Looking at getting one, Anyone have recommendation for a decent flash hider to get it to 16"?

Extended A2 is my personal favorite.

https://www.dsarms.com/p-15873-dsa-ar15-long-a2-birdcage-flashider-556mm-12-28-thread.aspx

LANTAC Dragon, PA M4-72, VG6 Gamma 556EX, VG6 Epsilon, BCM A2X.

Anyone know a good gunsmith to have one pinned at? My local one said he not sure if he can do it, An if he can wants $150. Dont have much faith in him.

this is often discussed in the other mainstream forums, and Build Yourself.

recurring recommendations are John Thomas at Retro Arms Works, and ADCO.

I could have sworn I read somewhere that the FH with which it comes gets it to 16.5" OAL, in case it were to be pinned.  Is this not the case?

I get the impression that the 14.5" version comes with a flash hider but it isn't pinned/welded, that's why the AIM page for that item has the NFA/ATF warning, compliance with law, etc.  the purchaser has to get it pinned/welded and then it will be 16" legal.

it also provides you the "opportunity" to put a different muzzle device on there.  Myself, being a non-cloner, I'd be leaning towards a LANTAC Dragon or VG6.  you could use whatever floats your boat, e.g. suppressor adapter, as long as it's long enough to get you to 16" pinned/welded.  typically 2-1/4" is sufficient, in the ball park, taking into account the 1/2-28" thread overlap.

just my 2 cents.

This was my understanding also.  I'm saving up for one of these uppers, leaning strongly towards a 14.5" and sending it straight to get a P&W job, likely with the factory FH

May not be for everyone however a option

https://store.t91tactical.com/T91-Flash-Hider-Compensator-p88458582

https://store.t91tactical.com/T65-Flash-Hider-Compensator-Combo-p93056392

Picked up a NIB 14.5 T91 upper on the EE and decided to go for a mostly correct clone with some personal preferences.

T91 14.5 upper
Spare Anderson lower with std LPK I had on hand (for now).
T91 grip
T91 BUIS (preferred it's look over the carrying handle version)
T91 stock kit
Pinned & welded V6G Delta flashhider because I think it just looks right in a retro 80's/90's way and matches the barrel finish well. Plus I did not care for the lock nut, OE comp, or the T91 comp I ordered.
BCM Gunfighter charging handle with small latch for personal preference.
Threw a real old school Thermold mag in it because it matched the aesthetic.