Seems the Saiga's are in the scarce category again - not long ago Classic Arms was selling 223's for $299. or something like that.
Centerfire is temp out of stock but you can back order - if you are willing to spend $379 that is:
http://centerfiresystems.com/SAI-223.aspx
I'd consider...
You can do a search and find some reviews on it (http://www.gunsumerreports.com/review_ruger_american_rifle_p1.php) - today it is on slickguns ( the 30-06 ) for $336 for reference. Guessing it's maybe Ruger's answer to other lower end rifle's such as the savage axis. AO Price seems fair.
I am not seeing much if anything firearm related on sale - a 22 lr revolver that they were sold out of, and a box of 40 sw ammo... I like the store just was anticipating something "on sale"... :(
What do you mean "re-manufactured ammo, like Lake City" ? The Lake City ammo I have used is not re-manufactured.
example:
http://www.targetsportsusa.com/p-3068-federal-lake-city-556x45mm-m855-62-gr-green-tip-fmj-840-rounds-on-stripper-clips-wammo-can.aspx
Creekside is not that far from you if you are talking about a range where you pay. They seem to be limiting their hours so check their website before you go but I've shot my shotgun there. They are an outdoor range - fyi. I've never been to Johns Mountain - that's a haul from Marietta isn't it ?
500 rounds of 7.62 x 39 runs for around 100 bucks on a real good day - you're paying too much IMO. There are several ammo search engines out there - such as ammo engine and I'd keep an eye on slickguns. AIM Surplus today would sell you 520 rounds for $ 108,, wideners 1000 rounds for 199.
Closest Academy to you is the new one way up GA 400. Have not heard of any being built near Kennesaw. Also regarding the small Liberty save from Lowes - I cannot imagine anyone getting 12 - 16 long guns in it just for ref (they tend to over advertise the space). I'd be curious if a Lowes would...
This same argument could be applied to say BCM (bravocompanyusa) or Daniel Defense or LMT or Noveske - outside of the AR world who knows about them? The good part is if you are re-selling an AR most of your buyers will definitely know these names (also Spikes which by the way is a great name...
FWIW - I have a Spikes.
I'd try to stick with a mid length vs a carbine imho and DI vs piston (the spikes you are linking is a carbine length) - but the di/piston is another can of worms. You seem all over the board on your choices...maybe some more research is in order. Spikes is a good solid...
Outside of a worn out mag spring never any issues. They are almost boringly reliable...it's what they are known for besides having invented the chicken sandwich...oops ... wrong GA company...