I bought mine from Monmouth Reloading, now it is Arm or Ally. Here's a list of their barrels, add it to the cart for the best price. I have bought several barrels from them, no issues. I don't work for them, just a customer...
Haven't shot past 300 yet, but I was pleased with the group. I'll bet an experienced long range shooter could put a nice group together. I'm getting there!
I went with an 18" Ballistic Advantage in .223 wylde for my last rifle. Very pleased with the performance and price. Like you, I didn't want to break the bank.
All my plates are on chains angled down, and I rarely shoot them closer than 15 yds. I have ran drills at 8, but not too frequently. Never had an issue with ss ricochet with them angled properly.
Glad it wasn't any worse than it was. Shooting glasses are a must.
I have an ALG ACT in my 16" AR and AR9. Great triggers, smooth pull with a nice break. On the pull gauge they are consistently around 4.5#.
I just installed a 3# Velocity trigger in my 18" AR. Got in on Ebay for $115 with a coupon. So far it is fantastic. No takeup, short pull, crisp...
The best leather holster imo in that price range is a Winthrop. Here is the link. The leather quality and craftsmanship are the best I've found in the $50 range. I have one for my Glock 26 that is 4 years old, and still looks and functions perfectly. Retention is still great. Rides nice and...
I have shot plenty of 9mm, 40 S&W, and .45 with no problems. I had one round of .223 with a primer put in backwards, but I caught it loading mags. Hope they get it sorted out.
I like mine. Fun to shoot and quite accurate. Feels good in my hands and seems to be well built. I put a Bushnell rds on it, for $48 I'm impressed with it as well.
Rome Gun & Pawn had it for $479 otd.
I was in the same boat, needed a scope for my 18" AR. I took a chance on an Athlon Helos 6-24x50, and it's been a good one. Has held zero and tracks well. Lifetime warranty also.
I have the PSA 10.5" 9mm upper. I initially had to send it back for an issue, they replaced the barrel with the updated one and it has been good to go. My favorite gun to shoot!
That's all I use with my AR9. I've also used them with my G19 and 17. No failures of any kind. Well built and lightweight. I bought most of them from Botach.