Built my own around 20 years ago, and it’s easier to do so now than it was. There are a lot of lowers available fo right around 100 bucks or so. The kit to finish the lower isn’t expensive. The upper part is the only part that needs specialty tools to build, and you can get that pre-assembled and headspaced. My personal one is a “clone”of the M16A1, full 20” length. It will do pretty much anything that needs doing within the limitations of the round.
If I want to change calibers, I can get another upper and be ready to go in minutes.
Get the one made by Ruger. It has many parts normally not found on over the counter AR models.
2BCT.10th.Mtn.Div.,,,
The CO’s bodyguard/driver for near 19 months,,,
He had the best M-4 that could be had,,,
He cussed that M-16 action every time I was able to talk to him,,,
Had to clean it 3-4 times a day,,,
He finally got a shotgun,,,
~~~
Back in late ‘67 they tried to give us M-16’s,,,
It took a threat of calling the IG to keep the M-14’s,,,
If you need a rifle to defend you and yours the
AK is the way to go,,,
It will always shoot...