Hey everybody! With a little luck, I should be an "official" member in a few weeks. I'm price shopping receivers and checking out reviews right now, and hope to have everything finished by September. Now, I've never owned or even shot an AR-15 before, so I've spent the past few weeks researching what it is exactly that I want out of it. (I love the fact that it's such a modular weapon - customization is fun... Here's my ideal configuration (tentatively) and I'd like to hear any comments/suggestions you guys might have!

Mega Gator complete lower receiver with M4 adjustable stock. (The jury's still out on whether I'll go with Mega - I'm awaiting feedback on it's "real world" quality apart from the glowing gun-writer write-ups. Any time a review starts off with "I was skeptical as to whether so and so could really live up to their standards of quality and attention to detail with this product... etc. etc. etc." I tend to disregard the rest of the article.)

RRA complete mid-length chrome/moly flat-top upper. After all my research, I've finally decided on a 1:9 twist 16" barrel (seems a good all-around standard size for what I'll be using it for, and with my limited experience.) with the extended sight radius. (I can use all the help I can get sight-wise!) I like the flat-top design because it's easy to scope, and I could always add a carry handle later if I wanted. As far as barrel lining, I figured chrome/moly was a good compromise between stainless and chrome lined, considering I won't be competing professionally - just blasting away with eventually some expectation of accuracy.

DPMS titanium bolt group and charging handle.

Did I miss anything? I'd be interested in whatever feedback you guys have on the configuration!