Your budget doesn't allow for Billet. Go forged. Forged is stronger and every bit as functional. You don't have the money to throw blingy non-functional stuff on your rifle.
Barrel:
Chrome lined - slightly less accurate, but will last longer
QPQ/Nitrided - slightly more accurate than chrome lined, lasts almost (some argue as long) as long as chrome
Stainless - most accurate, won't last as long
All of these are mostly argued about on the internet. Honestly, if you're shooting out barrels, you're dumping so much money into ammo that barrel cost and replacement is nothing to bat an eye at. All will likely out shoot you. Main thing is concentrate on finding a good barrel from a reputable manufacturer.
1:7 vs. 1:8.....1:8 is what I'd prefer, but I wouldn't pass over a good quality (say DD or Colt for example) barrel just because it's 1:7. Again, concentrate on getting a good barrel from a known good manufacturer. You'll likely see little difference unless you're hand loading, and either will shoot mil rounds (xm193 or m855) or most standard ammunition fine. Unless you're shooting light frangible varmint bullets, you aren't going to overspin and destroy bullets.
Barrel:
Chrome lined - slightly less accurate, but will last longer
QPQ/Nitrided - slightly more accurate than chrome lined, lasts almost (some argue as long) as long as chrome
Stainless - most accurate, won't last as long
All of these are mostly argued about on the internet. Honestly, if you're shooting out barrels, you're dumping so much money into ammo that barrel cost and replacement is nothing to bat an eye at. All will likely out shoot you. Main thing is concentrate on finding a good barrel from a reputable manufacturer.
1:7 vs. 1:8.....1:8 is what I'd prefer, but I wouldn't pass over a good quality (say DD or Colt for example) barrel just because it's 1:7. Again, concentrate on getting a good barrel from a known good manufacturer. You'll likely see little difference unless you're hand loading, and either will shoot mil rounds (xm193 or m855) or most standard ammunition fine. Unless you're shooting light frangible varmint bullets, you aren't going to overspin and destroy bullets.
You have been a huge help, so I hate to ask more questions...BUT as far as the lower goes...billet or forged? And for the barrel...chrome lined? or no? 1-7 twist or 1-8?
Again, thank you so much for all your help!