[gnius]

I'm looking to spend about $1000 on an AR. Please don't judge and reply "just spend another $500". Yes, I know there are great rifles to be had at $1500. I can't really spend that right now. For me, the $1000 is a stretch already. There are a few features I really want - I'd like it to be accurate (as cost allows), reliable. I would like to have a keymod or M-lok handguard that's as long as possible, and a low-profile gas block already installed.

I was hoping to get some suggestions regarding my options.

I've looked at getting an M&P Sport II, then replacing the handguard with a free-float one. Given that I'd have to replace the gas block, it would be both a project but also would be pushing past $900 in parts... and I'd have to buy some tools (which is an investment for a later date, I agree), for an admittedly excellent rifle, but one with a 1:9 barrel that I'd still have to work on before firing it. I was quite tempted by this Seekins GI Rifle from Freedommunitions which appears to have all the features I want with probably a $75 premium... it includes a 1:8 barrel from a reputable barrel maker, a mid-length gas system, and a Wylde 223 chamber... as well as an optic-ready handguard for $975. Alternatively, I'd have to look at building something. Now I'm willing to put a few pieces together and I welcome suggestions, but I'm probably not ready for building from single "detail-strip" type parts.

I welcome comments or suggestions. Thanks in advance.

 

[MB53]

Cabelas has DPMS Oracles priced at $529 right now. Pick one up, then order a keymod handguard from Midwest Industries,
put some Magpul parts on it and your choice of sights, maybe a shroud, and you'll be in business for around $1000

 

[lambo969]

You could always just chop the front side A-post off and free float a rail over it. Seems like a decent number of people do that on other sites I frequent. It would save you money on tools assuming you have the capabilities to do the chop. The only thing you would have to be wary of is the internal diameter of the FF hand guard you pick up as I'm not completely sure if the low-pro gas blocks are smaller overall or simply the same dimensions minus the front site post.

The Seekins looks like a sweet rifle though, if you like that go with it. Quality stuff, and it sounds like it would save you some work in finding all the parts/tools you want and need.

 

[bubbatime]

I've owned like 30-40 AR's and build my own now. I'm going to make this real easy for you. You have no tools, and you want the best bang for the buck, with the best reliability?

1) Buy a $159 delivered PSA complete lower.
2) Buy the railed BCM mid-length gas upper of your choice
3) Slap the two together and you have a PREMIUM rifle.

Option 2, which I actually think is a better idea.
1) Buy a budget PSA gun, a Smith & Wesson Sport II, or a Ruger AR for around $600 or less.
2) Buy a REAL optic, such as an Aimpoint Pro for $400
3) Get a stack of magazines and ammo
4) Shoot the thing for a year or two
5) save up some money and buy the BCM upper of your choice
6) Turn your spare upper (you now own two uppers) into a second rifle for just the cost of a complete lower ($159)
7) Repeat the cycle. Over and over again.

 

[WrongRecroom]

for 1k either
1. FN15 magpul model
2. Colt 6920 or the like

 

[5lima30ret]

for 1k either
1. FN15 magpul model
2. Colt 6920 or the like

^^^Very solid advice!^^^

 

[gnius]

^^^Very solid advice!^^^

I'm not sure that for my purposes I would gain anything by spending $300 more than 15 Sport 2 with zero extra features. Plus it's missing the handguard option I was so excited to have.

 

[danco]

Colt 6920 OEM1 or OEM2 (depending on whether you want a FSB or low-profile gas block), then buy the furniture you want...