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While I've had an AR for years I've just recently built an AR pistol and I'm in the process of doing my first 80% build. From what I can tell, if you're happy with the barrel, the other expensive item is the hand guard. When looking at pre-built vs. build your own uppers, I usually subtract the cost of the hand guard to give me a clear idea on the build price. This let's you compare apples to apples when looking at different vendors.

I found a really good deal on an 18" barreled upper but it has a quad rail. Another vendor has a similar upper but with a key mod I want. Specs are similar except for the hand guard, which is a $50 difference. If I built the same upper, there is no way I could buy the key mod hand guard for $50.

There is a lot to look at out there. Just when you think you've found what you want, you see something else. Take your time, make some notes, and be happy with what you end up buying.