elkaddict,

I wish I could help you on the 16".

I have the Bushmaster V-match, (XM15E2S) flattop with a 20" barrel.

I don't consider the 20" to be too long, but that's just my .2cents.

Accuracy is fantastic. my neighbor and I bought identical rifles. We both get sub MOA at 100 yards. Here is the best part, we are getting this accuracy with the cheapest Wal-mart ammo, the Rem. FMJ stuff that costs $3.78 for 20 rounds. It also shoots the Winchester (white box 40 rounds) CXP hollow points ($11.88) just as well if not better.

The V-Match rifles have a chrome bore and chamber. The tech support at BM told me not to expect the best accuracy until after about 200 rounds. Reason; the first 200 rounds polishes the chrome. When new, the bore looked like it was painted with gray primer. I now have about 150 rounds fired, it is pretty shiny. Accuracy has been slightly improving, best groups of three at 100 yds have been around 5/8".

Trigger wasn't too bad when new, but much better after I stoned the surfaces. Now I like it a lot more.