Welcome to the club, Im one of those old bushy A2 shorty owners, has proved to be one fine shooting and well made AR15.
I also recall the M16 A1's from the 70's, they did seem lighter. [:D]
I like the A2 sight better as well, happy shooting.
Oh, lot of scope choices, like the above reply mention, I like iron sights, but also have a Millett scope, also a Millett red dot sight.
Quality optics, at a affordable price.
So far 1060rd through it, no problems, excellent accuracy.
TG