I'm wanting a lightweight AR and have been eyeballing buying a new Colt AR 6720 recently, especially since I can get a new one for under $800 now. But I have also been wanting to build my first AR and thought now would be as good a time as ever, and the 6720 still weighs right at 6lb if I am not mistaken. My question is could I build an AR in that $800-1000 range that would be equal or better quality than the factory colt and be 5lb or less? 5lb isn't do or die, just a goal. I'm talking about metal receivers not polymer and I also want dust cover and forward assist. I want a 1:8 twist 16" mid length gas barrel with screw on brake/fh and probably a light keymod or mlok rail. I want to start from scratch and do it all myself, so stripped receivers only.

Any suggestions on where I should start on this or parts list? Should I even consider the mag tactical megnesium receivers or just stick to aluminum? How about the Faxon pencil barrels? BCG and buffer assembly?

Also how is this AR parts checklist that brownells has, is it a good start or is it missing anything that I might need? Seems simple enough that if I fill in all the options I should have a complete AR. https://www.brownells.com/UserDocs/Miscellaneous/ARCLform.pdf

Thanks and hope to be on here alot more doing lots of research before I actually start my first build. I am in no hurry and want it done right and something I can be proud of.

Who makes the lightest aluminum uppers that have forward assist and dust cover, stripped or complete?

probably going to be 2a armament.