For what its worth to the OP for a general idea, this was my first AR.
Recent build:
Spike Complete Lower:.................................250
GA SSA-E Trigger:........................................200
Noveske Upper:...........................................140
DD BCG:.....................................................150
BCM Gunfighter Charging Handle:....................55
DD 16" CHF 1:7 Gov Profile Barrel:.................360
LaRue 13.2..................................................329
BattleComp 1.0:...........................................150
Irons:.........................................................250
Total: ~1884
So, if you wanna build your own you will get sucked down the rabbit hole...

this list does not include my optic or the various parts and pieces required to assemble (armorers wrench, gas block and tube etc.) probably spending more money than is necessary. Like I did.
It has recently been sold and I have purchased a LaRue PredatAR 5.56 ($1500)
Spend the money and do it right the first time: "Buy once, Cry once"
If you do happen to get a lesser quality system (DPMS, Shrub, Stag, etc) at least do yourself the favor of upgrading the BCG. I am keeping my DD BCG from the above build as a spare. Its really quite awesome and reasonably priced.
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