My ar experience has mostly been in the varminter arena and not the tactical. I have yet to build my own ar from scratch, but have swapped barrels, stocks, and triggers. I want to build an ar as compact as possible for social use. As of right now my starting point is that I have a colt factory trigger assembly with large pins. Any and all suggestions are appreciated. I want to end up with the lightest and shortest weapon possible. And I want the ability to have an optic mounted that will still allow the use of the iron sights through that optic (sights removeable), and will want to mount a combat light (maybe a laser later) to the hand guard. I am in no hurry and will take my time and buy the larger and more expensive components on a used basis if possible. Thanks is advance, 2200v

Does your state allow SBRs?

I assume you mean short barreled rifle. I live in VA and I just checked the regs in the legal section and short rifles are allowed.

Yes, that is what I mean.  I wouldn't go any shorter than 11.5", but thats just me.  I've used 6.5" barreled AR15/ M16s that ran great.