I'm acquiring parts for a couple ARs myself. I started about a week ago. Luckily, I found 2 stripped lowers locally by a guy who used to be a teacher of mine. A few days of casual browsing and I've found lower kits, 10 & 20rd mags, and blank A3 uppers. I'm leaning towards 9 twist barrels, 16-18" and will probably run 55-60gr bullets. Despite the DIY factor, I estimate they'll wind up in the $900-1000 range (each) without sights/optics or a good trigger. Worth it? You decide!