Daniel Defense 16” 5.56 NATO Cold Hammer Forged AR-15 Barrel

The Daniel Defense 16-inch 5.56 NATO barrel is a premium, duty-grade AR-15 barrel engineered for shooters who prioritize reliability, longevity, and consistent accuracy. Built to Daniel Defense’s hard-use standards, this barrel is ideal for defensive rifles, duty carbines, and serious training setups.

Manufactured from 4150 chrome moly vanadium (CMV) steel, the barrel is cold hammer forged for extended service life and strength under high round counts. A chrome-lined bore and chamber enhance corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning, while the magnetic particle inspection (MPI) process ensures structural integrity and quality control.

Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, it safely runs both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition. The 1:7 twist rate is optimized for modern bullet weights, excelling with heavier 62–77 grain loads while remaining versatile with lighter ammo. Standard 1/2x28 muzzle threads allow easy installation of common muzzle devices or suppressor mounts.

Most configurations feature a mid-length gas system, delivering a smoother recoil impulse and reliable cycling compared to carbine-length systems. A .750” gas block journal supports low-profile gas blocks or traditional front sight bases, making it compatible with a wide range of AR-15 builds. The barrel is available in government or lightweight profiles, allowing shooters to choose between maximum durability or reduced front-end weight.

Finished in a mil-spec phosphate coating, the Daniel Defense 16” barrel is designed for real-world use where performance and durability matter more than chasing lightweight compromises.

For builders looking to assemble a no-nonsense, general-purpose AR-15, the Daniel Defense 16” 5.56 NATO barrel offers proven construction, excellent reliability, and long-term value.