Can anyone suggest where I should start as far as powders go with handloads for a 16" barrel? How does VV N110 sound?

H335 is a terrific powder for the .223. But there are others -- from BenchMark to Varget to H4895 to H322 -- that do well also.

N110 is NOT an appropriate powder for this cartridge. It is generally considered a slower "pistol" powder and is best suited to the .22 Hornet, .44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, etc.

Hey Express

Let's go at this another way.

What powder(s) do you have in stock in the loading room, or available from local sources.

That will make this much easier. Another concept is to use whatever powder you would use in any 223.

Ok, in the range that might be useable I have; H4895 N133 N130 N140 - of those my pick would be N130 but I am still waiting on dies.

...Or am I overreacting - Do I need to use as fast a powder as possible for a shorter barrel?

The same powders that give the highest velocities in a 24" barrel will generally give the highest velocities in a 16" barrel. Going to a faster powder for a shorter barrel is an internet "myth" that has surfaced time and again -- and take it from me, it doesn't hold water.