First post but I am a longtime reader.

So, I'm going to be building my first AR hopefully sometime soon. I have spent countless hours researching parts and quality components. So with my parts list lined out, I have a question.

I going to be building a 20in "SPR" and was wondering on the quality of MAS Defense barrels. I saw their 20in .223 WYLDE and the price seems good. Their website has outstanding reviews but after searching them on google, I saw a post by a guy stating they rig their ratings by not allowing for any review less than 5 stars to be posted.

With that knowledge, I got kinda worried. Now, I want to assemble the AR myself but they offered to do it in house for no charge.  They quoted me about $350 for a 20in fluted barrel with AERO upper,Troy brake, and rifle length gas system with no handguard per my request or $490 with 15in Troy Battlerail. Now all that has no BCG or charging handle.

My other options were a Integrity arms 18in barrel, Yankee Hill 20in fluted barrel, or a 18" Nordic .223 Barrel. I know that all the magic happens in the barrel so I shouldn't skimp out on that part, but I also know that some companies charge for the name. While im trying to build an accurate AR, I also dont want to break the bank.

So with all that, what do yall think? My lower is just gonna be a complete PSA lower. While I could build one, the cost difference is minimal. Since Im skimping on my lower (Vs getting a Spikes lower), I have some money to spend on the upper. Do any of yall have any experience with MAS? I want a accurate gun that shoots well. Is it worth the $100 to upgrade to the Yankee Hill or Nordic or will the MAS barrel suffice?

Thanks!

My 5.56 MAS defense 10.5 inch barrel has performed flawlessly and seems to be good quality. I would buy another one.

Yea, I have seen reviews on the short barrels being good but quality seems hit or miss. I just dont want to be the miss one.

Well, I dont think Im gonna go with MAS defense unless someone can give me a good review on them. I think I may go with a YHM 20in Fluted barrel or a 18in Nordic barrel since it is WYLDE chambered.