Having never built an AR before, I have a lot of questions. I'm looking for a 20" barrel, w.o. Carry handle. I'd prefer a 6.5mm, but if it is a couple hundred bucks more, no way.

1 Where to go?
2. Is a trigger upgrade worth while? What is best bang for a buck?
3. Any options that are highly recommended?

I have no need for metallic sights. Would use this rifle for prairie dogs through coyotes. I'd probably mount a FX-2 6x scope on it. Thanks for your advice.

If you want a 6.5, you'll probably have to go to a custom builder like White Oak or Delton if you want it complete.

Yes, triggers do matter.........Geiselle is never a mistake; G2s, SSA, or SSA-E will provide good service.

As far as other options go, for that kind of build, I surely opt for a stainless barrel, probably with no muzzle device unless you plann to use a can......then I'd just get it threaded with a cap.

Obviously, rifle gas system.

I'm partial to SOPMOD(LMT) stocks if you go the collapsible route.

JMHO.

MM

I went with a Yankee Hill up with a 20" barrel in 6.8 and I am very pleased. I have used and like Geiselle, and AR Gold and both are very good triggers.

Consider Blackhole Weaponry. Their .264 LBC runs about 300 bucks unless they are having a sale.

A poster here, Smack, builds great looking shooting and looking rifles using Blackhole Weaponry barrels. He spec's a somewhat unique but proven contour. Mine is just stock contour but would have done his contour in a minute, noting the groups he's posted. It sounded like he'd be good with just picking up the barrel, too. He's a good guy and very helpful.

I wish I could tell you how mine shoots but it's not swapped out with the tomato stake it's replacing yet. I have five builds to do counting this swap out, but don't figure it will be until July that I have time. Best to you.

Bottom is an Odin Works 18" barrel and forend in 6.5 Grendel

Thanks for the help!

pacecars, what stock is on that one in the picture ?

It is a Magpul UBR. I used have their CTR on my guns until I tried the UBR. It locks up solidly with no wiggle. The cheek rest portion does not move, just the portion below it and behind it adjusts. It is a little heavier than the CTR and more expensive but the ergonomics make up for it.

It's a great stock, alright, but it's not just a little heavier than the CTR.............it's a lot heavier, as in more than twice.

And it's a $250+ stock vs a $60 tag for the CTR.

MM

Yeah but it is nice

$300 sounds great