here is the ar comparison chart. If u decide to buy one its a good resource to look at.

http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?k...=5&output=html

Usually people build guns to have a weapon system that is built to thier exact needs, and for a fun learning experience, not necessarily to save money. KNowing what u need is the hard part, and it only comes from experience. So i tend to say buy one for now, train with it alot, try different slings, mounts, optics, grips, etc untill you like it; then maybe come back and build a custom rifle that will meet your exact needs.

Would hate to see you build one only to find out that it doesnt work with you correctly. Just a thought.

But if your ready for the fun and new knowledge I would say jump on in and build it. I would just start with a pretty stock AR and go from there after figuring out what needs improvement and what works with your body type, shooting style, and preferences.