Hi guys.  Doing my first build, and have already picked up a Palmetto Stripped lower for about $65.  I am planning to throw an ALG ACT Lower parts kit ( around $90) in that and then picking up a stock somewhere.  Right now, I am looking at starting the upper, but am running into some questions.  First, I have no problem building it.  I would actually prefer to do that, but for this build, I am trying to stay on the cheaper side (under $700 or so).  

Would it be more beneficial for me to build my own upper to keep costs down, or to purchase one that is already done?  I was looking at 2 complete uppers, one being a BCM (because of the free BCG) or a Palmetto that comes with stock (links below)

http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-Standard-16-C8-SFW-Upper-Receiver-p/bcm-urg-c8-sfw-16.htm
http://palmettostatearmory.com/index.php/ar-15-05/rifle-kits/psa-16-stainless-mid-length-1-7-freedom-rifle-kit.html


I have read through some of the old threads, and this decision seemed to be split, but they were a little older, so I am looking for some updated info

Any other info would be great, as I still have a long way to go on this.  I am planning on using this mainly for target shooting and as something to have in the house to welcome visitors at 2am that shouldnt be there  

Thanks!!

I just finished my first build and I did my upper. I think that for what you spend on a complete upper you can get better quality parts for the same price or less.
 

Thanks for the feedback!  How is the trigger on the PSA kit?  I have heard good things about the ALG ACT Trigger, which is why I was leaning that way, but I am definitely not opposed to other suggestions.

It is just a standard trigger nothing fancy, but works great for me. I really like it. Mine is mainly just a range toy and unwanted guest greeter. Eventually, I will get a geissele in it, but not anytime soon.

I would guess the PSA trigger is nothing but a normal cheap milspec style one. It'll feel like it probably.

The ACT is good. Honestly you won't notice much, if anything, between it and the QMS, so I'd almost recommend the QMS over it for what it sounds like you're building.

If the BCM complete upper isn't too much more than PSA, I'd go BCM every time. It'd be foolish to get the economy grade when much better is a great price.

If this is your only rifle, or you want it to be a go-to rifle, then buy a complete upper. Don't build it. The benefit is worth the extra cost for reliability. Also, if you mess with the gas block/front sight; you LOSE that, so either buy it hhow you want and leave it the way it came, or grind off the front sight to fit into a floated handguard.

People have trouble with their builds every day. Also lots of issues with PSA, being economy grade. The upper is not the thing you want built by a garage tinkerer.

Just my thoughts on it.

Thanks for that info CavScout8......I think that is the route I am going to take with the upper.  Between these 2 BCM's, which do you think would do better for my situation, the 14" or the 16"

http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-Standard-16-C8-SFW-Upper-Receiver-p/bcm-urg-c8-sfw-16.htm

http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-14-5-Mid-Length-Upper-Receiver-Group-p/bcm-urg-mid-14.htm


Again, thank you all for the help.

Hi guys, I have decided to buy a complete upper for my first build, which I am trying to keep relatively cheap (around $700 or so) but still want to make it nice.  Between the 2 options listed below, which do you think is the way to go, or should I be looking somewhere else all together?  With the BCM, I am in at around $530 for the upper, but without any handguards.  With the Blackrock, I would would be in at around $420, but with handguards.  Are the BCM receivers worth the extra money?


http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-Standard-16-C8-SFW-Upper-Receiver-p/bcm-urg-c8-sfw-16.htm?1=1&CartID=1

http://www.blackrocktacticalsolutions.com/16-BTSA15-300-AAC-BLACKOUT-BARREL-UPPER-ASSEMBLY-16-BTSA15-300.htm