So I finally decided to build my own AR from parts rather than buy an assembled rifle and customize it. After doing the research, it's going to be cheaper - and I'll wind up with exactly what I want. At this point all of the parts are on order, with about 2/3rds of them being in my possession. Really, the biggest challenge has been how many suppliers you wind up ordering from due to things going in and out of stock. I've had to buy from Primary Arms, BCM, Brownells, Amazon, and Larue Tactical to track down everything on the lists below:
So, here's the parts list for the lower receiver:
Aero Precision Forged Mil-Spec Lower Receiver $88
Mil-spec Carbine Length Buffer Tube Kit $34
Magpul CTR stock $76
Enhanced 7/8 rubber buttpad $17
Ergo Pistol Grip $17
Lower Receiver Kit $23
Timney 4 lb trigger $209
Lower Receiver sub-total: $464
The upper receiver parts list:
Aero Precision Forged Mil-Spec Upper Receiver $90
Molon Labe Engraved Dust Cover $15
Forward Assist Kit $18.50
BCM M16 Bolt Carrier Group $189
BCM Gunfighter Mod 4 Medium Charging Handle $45
Tactical Intent Barrel Nut $15
Troy Low Profile Gas Block $32
Yankee Hill Machine 20 Inch Barrel, Threaded, Fluted, $200
Rifle Length Gas Tube $13.50
Ejection Port Dust Cover Parts $3.43
Troy Alpha 15" Free Float Handguard $180
Troy Squid Grip Pack $24
Sure Fire SOCOM Flash Hider $128
Upper Receiver sub-total: $953.43
The Aero Precision upper and lower fit together like gloves - unlike some sets I've seen where there is substantial side to side play (or worse fore and aft play).
So, for $1417.43 I get a rifle that should be a real tack driver set up exactly the way I want it - instead of spending $1400-1500 for something that's close, and then spending another $500 to $600 in upgrades. Plus, I get the enjoyment of building it myself!
Just a side note, this total may go up $139 as I'm giving serious consideration to adding the JP Enterprises captured spring buffer.
I should be able to start assembly next week and will try to take and post some pictures as assembly progresses.
UPDATE: The total cost did go up $139 - I went ahead and ordered the JP Enterprises captured spring buffer from Brownells. So the total is now $1553.43...