This is for all the good questions asked and all the great responses given for the reason to build your own AR.
I bought my lower yesterday and built the complete unit in about 2 1/2 hours, just using a few hand tools, the owners manual that I got with my first rifle(PCR1) and the Marine TM that I bought at the same time.
I don't remember who posted the tip about using a razor blade for the front detent, but that made it soooo simple.  Heck, I never even launched any springs!
Again, thanks to all on this board for the great information and positive outlook on building.


Steve

[beer]!

-razor blade trick works[;)]