Hoping to get or build one as a college graduation gift to myself.
Budget is $800 (separate budget for optic don't worry). Anymore than that and the physiological phenomenon of "huh this almost looks too cool to shoot, and gosh darnit I spent $900-$1k+ on this thing
and I don't want to scratch or ding it" takes over. Anything less than that and I'll gladly use the heck out of it without hesitation. Which I figure is the type of confidence I'm guessing I'll want to have if I am ever forced to use it.
Desired use is everything from SHTF, Home Def., to range time (about 2400 rds a year).
AR's I have been looking at buying:
- Colt Expanse
-
Springfield Saint not anymore backstabbers
- M&P 15 Sport II (w/Magpul MOE, Mlock)
- Ruger AR 556
What I don't know is the technical differences between these rifles, or mil-spec vs proprietary parts when trying to interchange parts.
AR parts I've been looking to make a build off:
- Stripped Anderson Lower, heard these came from the same forged block supplier as Colts before being machined.
- Magpul lower parts kit from PSA
- This upper assembly
Complete Upper
- Some flip up/down sights from Troy or Midwest industries.
Already got a decent supply of some metal mags and Pmags from pops.
I have no experience building an AR, but plan on eventually just building them myself. At the same time I like supporting our firearms companies and local gun stores.
So I have no problem out right buying my first either.
If you have a better idea of a build than what I have listed, or another suggestion for a factory rifle go for it. I'm not chained to any
one brand or type of build.
Annnndddd go!
Update 5/13/2017:
Was able to pick up a forged aluminium Anderson stripped lower at a gunshow for $69 after tax. (cheaper than added $25 FFL transfer fee that's pretty standard around where I live).
Now I am looking for some lower parts kits to finish it out. Any tips on who to avoid/who makes good (and cheap preferably but not required to be cheap) kits? I'd prefer one with stock included,
but not a deal breaker if its not included.
For the upper just decided to go with the 16" Mid-length M-Lok complete upper from PSA.
Thanks for all your help!