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11/19/2015 8:42:38 AM EDT
This will be my second AR. The first one, I really didn't do much in terms of research. I just bought cheap parts and assembled it and then I ended up selling it for a little profit. Now I'm looking to build one that I've done some research on. Ideally I'd like to build an 11.5 or 12.5 SBR but I don't feel like going through the added paperwork or wait time. Maybe one day I'll do that. For now I'm thinking about a 14.5 middy, welded and pinned or just a 16" middy. Something about me doesn't like the idea of having my flash hider permanently attached.

I'm on a PSA type budget. I'd love to do something like a BCM or DD but I can't justify it.

I already have my lower. I bought a compete Magpul MOE been lower from PSA. (Still can't find the blem.)

I'm thinking a Holosun RDS when it comes time for an optic.

Just looking for opinions on uppers and any tips/advice.

11/19/2015 1:38:37 PM EDT
[#1]
Quoted:
This will be my second AR. The first one, I really didn't do much in terms of research. I just bought cheap parts and assembled it and then I ended up selling it for a little profit. Now I'm looking to build one that I've done some research on. Ideally I'd like to build an 11.5 or 12.5 SBR but I don't feel like going through the added paperwork or wait time. Maybe one day I'll do that. For now I'm thinking about a 14.5 middy, welded and pinned or just a 16" middy. Something about me doesn't like the idea of having my flash hider permanently attached.

I'm on a PSA type budget. I'd love to do something like a BCM or DD but I can't justify it.

I already have my lower. I bought a compete Magpul MOE been lower from PSA. (Still can't find the blem.)

I'm thinking a Holosun RDS when it comes time for an optic.

Just looking for opinions on uppers and any tips/advice.

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i125/eric-holmes/C034942B-E42B-4DE7-8FC3-6F747740A14E_zpshnefu2oc.jpg
View Quote


ETA: The above BCM upper has no rail. Magpul MOE mid-length would suit it fine.

Check your budget. BCM 14.5" mid-length gas with A2X flash hider (pinned) and BCG link for $550.  It's the standard (not BFH/CHF) barrel but still good for us mortals.  That said, nothing wrong with PSA.  I think I have the same PSA complete lower as you and I'm happy with it once I replaced the gritty trigger with an ALG ACT.

The Holosun has become my go to mid-range RDS when I don't want to pay for an Aimpoint.

Good luck.

ETA: The BCM upper has no rail. A Magpul MOE mid-length would suit it fine.
11/19/2015 2:28:55 PM EDT
[#2]
Honestly, for my use, I have considered the Ptac brand that PSA sells. Complete with BCG and charging handle for under $300. That would leave some room for an optic.
11/19/2015 8:41:21 PM EDT
[#3]
I have no experience with the ptac line. People on here seem to think it's best to avoid them. I have no problem with budget builds but, when you are talking about a rifle that should last a lifetime, going as cheap as possible probably isn't the best route. I've used PSA premium and freedom (with the stainless barrel) uppers and have had no issues with them so far. They may not be ptac cheap but, they are still relatively inexpensive and a good value. I'd be willing to bet PSA has some good deals on uppers  for black friday.
11/19/2015 9:46:57 PM EDT
[#4]
If you don't have a specific requirement for a free floated upper, I would go with a PSA premium upper like this light weight option.

You will need a charging handle, BCG, rear sight, mags, and a sling...and you'll likely want a matching MOE hand guard eventually too.

It may seem like a large purchase, but by your own admission, you've already gone the cheap route once...stay with some quality mid level hardware.

11/19/2015 10:14:43 PM EDT
[#5]
I have actually looked at that one and also this one.

http://palmettostatearmory.com/psa-16-chf-mid-length-premium-upper-without-bcg-or-charging-handle.html
11/19/2015 10:20:59 PM EDT
[#6]
Or this one.
11/19/2015 10:59:47 PM EDT
[#7]
I like melonite/nitride barrels, but PSA is really cagey about who makes theirs and how they are made...I would not buy one at this time, not until PSA is more forthcoming about them.
11/20/2015 8:12:28 PM EDT
[#8]
It seems like the ones I look at, they tell exactly who makes them. FN
11/20/2015 11:24:30 PM EDT
[#9]
Quote History
Quoted:
It seems like the ones I look at, they tell exactly who makes them. FN
View Quote


Yes their Premium and CHF barrels are all FN, but they do not say who makes their melonite barrels...if it were FN, they would say so.
11/22/2015 9:08:40 PM EDT
[#10]
Primary arms advanced micro red dot
11/23/2015 12:08:03 AM EDT
[#11]
I've really been intrigued by the Holosun HS403G. Especially the auto-on feature.
11/23/2015 6:12:00 AM EDT
[#12]
Schuyler Arms has what you are looking for. You can get a completed Aero Precision upper for $66, Ballistic Advantage Barrel for $95 (love those barrels), AERO BCG or Schuyler BCG for under $90, Troy gas block and tube w/ roll pin for $30. Search Ebay or a black friday deal for the Rail you want for under $100 and Ta Da! An AR-15 that will last you forever and will do anything you ask it to for $355. Buy once cry once. If you go the reallllly cheap route, and it breaks, your out how much. Or just spend a little more now, and know that you have a high quality product that I have out performed people with $1800 setups.
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