Doing a new upper build for a 14.5" carbine length barrel, so I need to find the flash suppressor that will be welded/pinned.  I want a non-mount AAC blackout (can't find one) and came across this from DD:

http://www.operationparts.com/Daniel_Defense_Superior_Suppression_Device_p/dd-04074.htm

Problem is I don't think it's long enough to push my barrel out to 16" (1.875" minus the thread length is probably just over 1.375 or 1/8" short).  I also haven't heard anything about how it performs.

Thoughts on either of those fronts?

I have a vortex and can go with that, but wanted to look for some alternatives.

I believe you need at least 2 1/4".  I used a Phantom to bring mine to length, but I had it laying around.  If I were you I would do the vortex you have, I believe that will put you at 16.1".

BE SURE TO MEASURE barrel length with a closed bolt.  Just to confirm it isn't 1. 14.7" or 14. something" shorter....

Vortex is available pre-drilled, while Blackouts are very hard and tough to drill through.

I can't use a flash hider so brake/comp whatever it is. I have a Battle Comp 1.5 on one 14.5 and a POF brake on another. I like the POF better. I would go with the Vortex in your situation. I reckon if you get one pre-drilled might need to time it if you want the weld at the bottom. A shim kit will help if you go this route.

This is actually a really good point.  I'm having a hard time finding a pre-drilled vortex, but I can imagine how the blackouts might be hard to drill.

Yeah this DD isn't long enough.

I just had the same dilemma with a 14.5" BBL Adams Arms Tactical Elite upper.  Since I live near Rainier Arms I went with a Battlecomp 1.5 and had them do the pin job.  Got it back in 6 days.  It looks mean!  But I've yet to fire up that baby yet.

Ug I hope it's not too loud for you!

I know I want basic flash suppression - not looking for a comp or muzzle break.  However, making sure I don't get into a bind with the length is the issue.  I don't have the barrel yet (in the mail), so I'm essentially guessing if I try to go with a shorter one than the vortex.

I chose to go with the DD extended:

Daniel Defense Extended

Just a little variety.  The vortex I have is on my 16" barrel.  I can switch them if I really want to.  The ACC non-mount is 1/8" shorter than these.