Here's a good deal on a DPMS 16" upper:

http://www.dpmsinc.com/store/product...d=803&cat=1938

$444 for a the complete Panther Bull Sweet 16 upper. The stainless barrel might not be optimal, but a can of Krylon primer and another of flat black will take care of the shine issue. You can get a stripped lower for around $100-150 (my RRA lower cost $125), and a stock AR-15 lower parts kit costs in the ballpark of $50-75. Then you just need the buttstock/buffer of your choice (which start about $50 for a standard A2 buttstock and buffer, and go up form there) and you're in business. The only part that you'll need to have shipped to an FFL is the stripped lower receiver. Everything else is not regulated and can be shipped to your house.

Mike