I'm so glad I found this website. It has been very educational so far. Some of the custom builds I've seen are gorgeous. My brother-in-law and I are doing research before attempting to build our first rifles. I was hoping to get some feedback from other builders out there. Since I don't have a lot of money to buy an assembled rifle to modify, I figured I could accumulate parts and build a rifle up over time (say, a year or less). I live in Oklahoma.
I guess some of the big questions I have are:
1. How has the expiration of the assault weapons ban affected how I can build a rifle? Example: Do I still need to purchase a "pre ban" lower reciever to have a bayonet lug, etc.?
2. What part/accessory brands should I consider and stay away from?
3. As far as reliability goes, is a short or long (I think I've even seen medium) gas system preferable?
4. I've seen so many match bolt/carriers, free floating handguard/rail systems, barrels, etc. What kind of performance "hot rod" parts should I consider to make a reliable, accurate, and cool looking rifle?
I appreciate any feedback. Thanks!