Why get a removable carry handle? If you end up putting a traditional scope on the rifle, you’ll probably want a good flip-up BUIS (like the ARMS 40 or 40L). If you think you might get an Aimpoint or other dot sight, a fixed BUIS (like the LaRue or LMT) might be a better BUIS choice. You’ll spend nearly the cost of any of these BUISs with the removable carry handle. My advice is to skip the carry handle.
Get a chrome-lined barrel. It will last longer and clean up easier.
Go for a 1:9 twist if you think you’re gonna stick with 55 or 62 grain ammo. Some of the heavier bullets will require a 1:8 or faster. The 1:9 should last a bit longer than the 1:7 barrels. That said, you’ll probably never shoot-out a 1:7 unless you shoot a lot.
Being so close to the AWB sunset, I couldn’t recommend any muzzle device short of a good flash suppressor. If you ever shoot at night, you’ll know why it’s a good piece of equipment to have.
Stay away from the HBAR barrels. IMHO, the thinner profiled barrels are a bit easier to handle in the field for long periods of time. YMMV.
So you want a Rolex. Well, I’ve had some very expensive watches and some inexpensive, but good quality, watches that all kept time. A Colt will cost you more and will have a better resale, generally, than most other ARs. The Colt guys will be along shortly to proove exactly why Colt is so much better. Truth is I have Bushmaster, RRA and Eagle Firearms ARs (some factory and some built by me) and they ALL run great. IMHO, I think RRA is probably the best bang for the buck right now, but won’t have as high of a re-sale as the Bushy or Colt rifles. If all you want is re-sale value, get a Colt or a Bushy. Personally, I don’t think much of re-sale on my ARs because I buy them with the intention of keeping them. YMMV.
It will be legal to own the LEO-only lowers. I do, however, think you’ll be asking for trouble from most LEOs who won’t understand the law. Just MHO.
Welcome to the black rifle addiction.