dreadpirate
Ultimate Member
As stated , new one are currently still on the low side of the price swings, and most sellers are mentally referencing what they paid when the market was higher.
I feel you about prefering fixed carry handles , but alas in response to market demand, virtually everything has gone flat top , and A2's are considered Retro and Rare. The best you can easily do for popular prices , is make sure to get one with old school front sight assy , and use a detachable carry handle .
IF you truely want an A2 upper as a firm parameter, disregard the advice to buy new, and search for a vintage Colt .( Bushmaster continued to offer fixed carry handles longer into the modern era mfg's , but Maryland sucks.)
If you go to the Nations Gun show in Chantilly there is a guy that sells Colt uppers of all types.