I'm looking for a decent enough 11.5" in 5.56 1000-1250 bucks I figure should get me most of the way there. I expect to shoot mostly that 64 grain federal load the FBI likes so much, as it makes the rifle effective to what I really consider my maximum range (190-200 yards) due to poor eyesight.

I'd prefer a mil-spec trigger as I'm picky and will be swapping to something else.

does anyone have any input?

There are a ton of ways you can go on this. Depending on what you consider "decent enough" you could to really cheap and buy a PSA rifle and spend under $500.

Since it sounds like you're going to swap out the trigger anyway (which is what I'd recommend as a worthwhile upgrade) why not build your lower and buy an upper. You can find a decent mil spec stripped lower for $50-70. Add a LaRue or Geissele trigger. Pick the stock of your choice (or just get a pistol brace and eliminate the hassle of doing the paperwork for an SBR).

Then I'd just get this upper - https://bravocompanyusa.com/co...w-mcmr-10-handguard/

So figure about $800 will get you the upper and stripped lower leaving you $2-450 for a charging handle and assorted parts (trigger, stock, safety, pistol grip, etc). Depending on what you get and if you can find some parts on sale you should be able to come in at close to $1250, maybe a little more, and you will have an outstanding rifle.

quote:

Originally posted by Houndog:
why not build your lower and buy an upper.

Thanks houndog, I should have mentioned I'm ok building my own lower as you've recommended.

Just get a cool one like mine.

https://palmettostatearmory.co...5-56-17-gray-c7.html

I did mine as an IDF config.