So, I'm considering doing my first 308 build. I'm kinda stuck on parts compatibility though... As an aside, is it really much cheaper to build your own 308 based AR? I know a significant savings can be had by building your own AR-15 (as I've done in the past), but the 308 based ARs don't have a parts commonality amongst them, so I'm wondering if its even worth trying to do, or if I should just order one pre-built.
From the reading I've done here, as well as other places, it would appear that A LOT of parts are not interchangeable amongst the different manufacturers.
I'm not stuck to a particular brand of lower, however, I would prefer to use the SR-25 mags.
When looking at upper pieces, it starts to get a little overwhelming. My main reason for wanting to do a custom 308 is that I'd like to get a decent barrel. Looking at DPMS's product lines, none of the barrels are chrome lined. They have 1 stainless barrel in 18". I'd prefer at least 20", and that's not something in their catalog.
Switching to Fulton or American Spirit Arms, they have longer barrels, but they're stainless and shiny. The LaRue OBR and POF rifles are a nice matte color (not shiny), high quality barrel, but overall the system is more than my budget will allow.
So, any suggestions? Should I just suck it up and save for an OBR (or something comparable). Is a chrome lined barrel not all that important? Should I look at building my own, or just buy an off the shelf? Should I just get an M1A?
Thanks,
H.