I see them with 14.5" barrels but will they work with shorter barrels?

Yes, definately down to 11.5 or even lower.  Some manufacturers won't warranty the can if it is used on a barrel shorter than 11.5 because of bullet stabilization problems.  I have seen guys using them on 7.5 inch barrels.  The gun does become much louder as you move to shorter barrels though.

I just posted a thread about this issue in the m16 forum.  Would anybody have any pics of a sbr with a can that had a mid length or rifle length FF handguard?  I am thinking about doing this.....  Suggestions on what handguards would fit with which cans would be appreciated too.

oooh, I like it!  What's the overall length on that puppy with the stock collapsed?

I run an SWR Specwar2 on my 10.5" LMT upper with KAC RAS2.  It runs great though is VERY dirty.  Get a PRI gasbuster, they're really worth it on the shorties.

it's pics like that that make me cry because no supressors in MN.  SBRs, but no cans.

That is one fine rifle.

Quoted: That is one fine rifle.

+1

"it's pics like that that make me cry because no supressors in MN. SBRs, but no cans."

With 5.56 I wouldn't worry so much- not like they're making them comfortable to shoot without ear protection anyway; a good set of electronic ear pro are about as good if you can't get the can.  

For .22lr stuff; that's where I'ld be crying.  suppressed .22s are the shit.  


AS FAR AS THE POST:

I think that the best idea is probably a Troy/RD systems or Ops Inc, Surefire or one of AAC's new reflex cans on a 12.5 just because you can get some extra velocity at similar OAL.  Otherwise if you go muzzle mount the HTG fatboy cans are pretty short, and using one in conjunction with a 10.5 will give you a handy gun.   The M42K/Halo/Omni QD cans are nicer but are probably going to yield a 1-2inch longer gun without as great a lightwieght "carbine" feel to it.      

More here:
www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=14&t=266358