I just purchased my first AR and I too wanted an entry level (cuz kids and budget). I opted for a DPMS flat top. I got it for $600. It didn't come with iron sights so I ordered some flip up frt/rr sights from Amazon. I already had a nice Red Dot sight (came with the shotgun I alredy own for some reason) so I mounted it.
I haven't shot it yet (kids and 50/50 custody arrangement) but am planning on taking it to the range Sunday.
I can already feel the bug for at least 2 more guns (one smaller plinker for myself and give this one to my son for Christmas) and a heavy longer barrel with some toys for reaching out to longer distances.
I considered building one but the overwhelming amount of info seemed too daunting to learn. I would have spent a ton of time reading up and researching to find the best deals on stuff before purchasing. Then there's the tool aspect. Then the time to assemble it. For my budget it made more sense to spend the extra $50 - $100 and buy one that's already built and assembled.
The next purchase will likely be a stripped lower w/ build kit and complete upper (but this is subject to change based on my mood) lol
I'll report back how my new DPMS runs if you're still interested in reviews.
FWIW I'm very mechanically inclined and really enjoy working with my hands and building things, but building my first AR from a box full of parts seemed overwhelming. I'm sure this feeling will wear off once I tear this one down a few more times.
I haven't shot it yet (kids and 50/50 custody arrangement) but am planning on taking it to the range Sunday.
I can already feel the bug for at least 2 more guns (one smaller plinker for myself and give this one to my son for Christmas) and a heavy longer barrel with some toys for reaching out to longer distances.
I considered building one but the overwhelming amount of info seemed too daunting to learn. I would have spent a ton of time reading up and researching to find the best deals on stuff before purchasing. Then there's the tool aspect. Then the time to assemble it. For my budget it made more sense to spend the extra $50 - $100 and buy one that's already built and assembled.
The next purchase will likely be a stripped lower w/ build kit and complete upper (but this is subject to change based on my mood) lol
I'll report back how my new DPMS runs if you're still interested in reviews.
FWIW I'm very mechanically inclined and really enjoy working with my hands and building things, but building my first AR from a box full of parts seemed overwhelming. I'm sure this feeling will wear off once I tear this one down a few more times.