Entry level AR

[DenverGP]

So, getting closer to finally getting or building my first AR. For me, "build" would just be purchasing an assembled upper and assembled lower and putting them together. I think I want to have a chrome lined (or newer hi-tech lining) barrel/bore. I've seen a couple that would end up in my price range that have this, and seems like this would be help the barrel/bore last longer. I also like the carry handle, both the wife and I shot the m16 in the air force, and I think she'll enjoy shooting it more if it looks familiar. If I do get one with carry handle, I'll want it removable so I can change things up without needing to replace the upper.

Will mainly be a range plinker, out to about 100 yards max.

I'm looking for somewhere around $650 or so.

Is the chrome lined barrel useful?

Does twist rate make much difference for my use?

I'm just planning on iron sights to start.

Options I've seen watching the deals go by:
1) Bushmaster Patrolmans : chrome lined barrel/bore. carry handle
2) Bushmaster ORC : chrome lined barrel/bore. Not sure if could put a carry handle on, or just go with some pop-up sights.
3) Assemble one from PSA, probably go with the basic assembled lower and the premium upper: think the premium upper is chrome lined, also seen some with some other linings).

Any others I should consider? if so, what do they offer that I'd be missing with any of the above.

[buffalobo]

Will need BCG and charging handle if buying pre-assembled upper and lower. PSA sometimes offers uppers with BCG and charging handle included.

[wyome]

Wyndahm Weaponery, the old bushmaster....when bushie still cared..

[DenverGP]

Wyndahm Weaponery, the old bushmaster....when bushie still cared..

Thanks, a couple very good looking options in the ballpark of my price range.

[mutt]

BCM upper $439 - http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-M...-urg-m4-16.htm
PSA lower $180 - http://palmettostatearmory.com/index...category/4284/

Total $619. Add another $70 for a rear buis, handguards and a plain jane charging handle (though I'd recommend a BCM gunfighter if the budget allows). I'm sure you could get those items used in the Trading Post for much cheaper if you are patient.

Now you have a high quality AR for an entry level price.

[Great-Kazoo]

BCM upper $439 - http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/BCM-M...-urg-m4-16.htm
PSA lower $180 - http://palmettostatearmory.com/index...category/4284/

Total $619. Add another $70 for a rear buis, handguards and a plain jane charging handle (though I'd recommend a BCM gunfighter if the budget allows). I'm sure you could get those items used in the Trading Post for much cheaper if you are patient.

Now you have a high quality AR for an entry level price.

Does one really need a Gunfighter or any other Tactical handle , on an entry level AR? Or or that matter any AR, not running optics? It seem someone laser engraves ANYTHING for a gun and the price tag jumps, considerably.

[mutt]

Does one really need a Gunfighter or any other Tactical handle , on an entry level AR? Or or that matter any AR, not running optics? It seem someone laser engraves ANYTHING for a gun and the price tag jumps, considerably.

Need? Nope. However if you like to manipulate your charging handle by just pulling the left side of the handle vs the traditional method of using both sides, gunfighter charging handles with their extended latch are far easier to use. They are also built a little beefier to handle stresses traditional charging handles weren't designed for. I will admit I think they are a bit over-priced which is why I tend to wait till they are on sale before I buy. Their $1 sale with purchase of an upper during Christmas was awesome but too bad for the OP that ship has sailed.

If you're suggesting that I only recommended the gunfighter charging handle because of the laser engraving/marketing, you couldn't be any further from the truth. What BCM engraves on the handle is not relevant to me. They can call it whatever they want so long as it works as advertised. Marketing is simply a fact of life when it comes to product promotion. At least BCM sells solid products, I don't think anyone would call their gear substandard, to go with that marketing vs some companies that peddle shit products while putting all their effort into cool marketing.

[Great-Kazoo]

Need? Nope. However if you like to manipulate your charging handle by just pulling the left side of the handle vs the traditional method of using both sides, gunfighter charging handles with their extended latch are far easier to use. They are also built a little beefier to handle stresses traditional charging handles weren't designed for. I will admit I think they are a bit over-priced which is why I tend to wait till they are on sale before I buy. Their $1 sale with purchase of an upper during Christmas was awesome but too bad for the OP that ship has sailed.

If you're suggesting that I only recommended the gunfighter charging handle because of the laser engraving/marketing, you couldn't be any further from the truth. What BCM engraves on the handle is not relevant to me. They can call it whatever they want so long as it works as advertised. Marketing is simply a fact of life when it comes to product promotion. At least BCM sells solid products, I don't think anyone would call their gear substandard, to go with that marketing vs some companies that peddle shit products while putting all their effort into cool marketing.

Not at all. I do see / run in to people who point out the "cool engraving" yet fail to tout the benefit of said c/handle. There are shooters who are quick to show off the latest widget they dropped $$ on, again failing to explain why said product is better than one from a low key company.

Years ago whrn J&T dist offered their AR kits less lower receiver i used them numerous times. Local shooters who were running ABC, couldn't understand why i'd buy from an unknown (to them) dist who used wilson bbl's over the ABC. Till they shot mine. Then it was oh wow you saved how much ??

[mutt]

Not at all. I do see / run in to people who point out the "cool engraving" yet fail to tout the benefit of said c/handle. There are shooters who are quick to show off the latest widget they dropped $$ on, again failing to explain why said product is better than one from a low key company.

Agreed. Many just buy things because some industry celebrity pimps it.

[Big John]

Need? Nope. However if you like to manipulate your charging handle by just pulling the left side of the handle vs the traditional method of using both sides, gunfighter charging handles with their extended latch are far easier to use. They are also built a little beefier to handle stresses traditional charging handles weren't designed for. I will admit I think they are a bit over-priced which is why I tend to wait till they are on sale before I buy. Their $1 sale with purchase of an upper during Christmas was awesome but too bad for the OP that ship has sailed.

If you're suggesting that I only recommended the gunfighter charging handle because of the laser engraving/marketing, you couldn't be any further from the truth. What BCM engraves on the handle is not relevant to me. They can call it whatever they want so long as it works as advertised. Marketing is simply a fact of life when it comes to product promotion. At least BCM sells solid products, I don't think anyone would call their gear substandard, to go with that marketing vs some companies that peddle shit products while putting all their effort into cool marketing.

You can also add an extended charging lever to an existing for $10.

I only point this out for the new guy and am not getting into the pissing match

I just put a BCM on one of my AR's in hope of my form one coming in soon and happily having my gun not cycle.