So a couple weeks back I built my first lower, and thus a new phase of my BRD has taken control. Now I want to build my first upper to go with it and.....I want to make it as CHEAP as possible. No free float rails, expensive BCGs, Magpul stuff...none of that, just a standard sling, and maybe mount a light on it.I've got a couple sets of the regular hand guards and a carry handle. I want it to be simply a stock/ plain jane M-4 clone.

-Is there a better place to order upper parts from then Brownell's?
-I am looking at Brownell's AR-15 Builder, and I see where there are "threaded barrels" and "crowned barrels", what is the difference? Is one better then the other and why?
-Is building a upper difficult? I live in an apartment and no workbench. I've been using an old desk I mounted a vise to. Is there a point in building an upper that really requires a workbench?

thanks in advance,

Mike

Many better places than Brownells for parts, check the site sponsors for starters. If you want absolute lowest price but decent quality, check out DSA:
http://www.dsarms.com/DSA-ZM4-Forged-7075T6-A3-AR15-Upper-Receiver––-DSZM4CBU/productinfo/DSZM4CBU/

For a little more money you can get a nice high end upper for dirt cheap: http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=124&t=483834

ETA: unless you REALLY want to, there's no real reason to buy a stripped upper and barrel and assemble for your first upper.