I'm wanting to start my first build so I'm looking for a lower. I'm wanting the build to cost a thousand ish not including the optic. I was looking at a Mega forged lower. I know they were highly regarded before they were sold to Zev. Are they still good to go?

Thanks

Mega is good to go, I don't have experience with Zev. The ones I've seen are nice.

Mega was top notch.  If Zev kept the quality, you should not be disappointed.

For your fist build, just get an el-cheapo PSA lower and a build kit.
Less than $500 for a fully functional AR.

Learn the build process and how to shoot it. Spend the savings on ammo, then build the gun you want - or just make modifications to the one you have.
PSA is surprisingly good stuff, and the bang-for-the-buck just cannot be beat, especially for learning.
Additionally, they are now the biggest AR mfgr in the world.

Watch out for BRD. It is very contagious, and the fucking things breed like crazy, even when left alone in a rack or closet.
(BRD = Black Rifle Disease).

IMHO YMMV.

Zev is gtg in my experience

Sons of Liberty Gun works uses their uppers and lowers.  Really nice an and they mate up tight (bought a set)