I don't think I have over $1k in any of my ARs. Most are built from lower budget parts, Delton, Palmetto, J&T/Doublestar. Franken parts. Someday I will buy an actual Colt just to have one.
I run the heck out of the cheaper guns with no issues. Just check them for headspace and make sure everything is properly staked. MY Delton still is less than 3/4" on mixed ammo, 1/2 inch on high end hand loads at 100 yards after several thousand rounds. Palmettos haven't been as good but very serviceable on brass and steel case.
If I was stepping up a little more I would get a Doublestar Constant Carry or a Ruger.
I run the heck out of the cheaper guns with no issues. Just check them for headspace and make sure everything is properly staked. MY Delton still is less than 3/4" on mixed ammo, 1/2 inch on high end hand loads at 100 yards after several thousand rounds. Palmettos haven't been as good but very serviceable on brass and steel case.
If I was stepping up a little more I would get a Doublestar Constant Carry or a Ruger.