JPK,
In 2016 I purchased a stripped AR lower - I called in Hillary Insurance.
Had the state police approval and waiting period, etc..
Have since finished it as an AR Pistol Lower.
Recently purchased a 10.5" barrel upper with fixed front sight base and removable carry handle (because I want my fixed sights very very strong).
(In Maryland 10.5" is the shortest AR barrel that can be SBR'ed - in case I want to do that in the future)
So, it will be a short distance firearm - pistol use probably under 25 yards.
If someday I SBR it, then use under 100 yards.
If I get an EOTECH or red dot, I'd remove the carry handle and buy a Magpul folding backup rear sight.
I don't have to get an expensive electronic sight... just thinking about it.
I have been in the mood to buy all gun accessories on my wish list - just in case the next President bans many things via executive order.
He might even put a huge tax on ammunition.
Replacing recoil springs and buffers (probably not necessary).
I need to buy spare extractor springs.
Somethings I can't buy - like bullets and powder for reloading - everyone is sold out of the exact reloading supplies I want.
I used to be friendly with a class 3 dealer who can walk me through all the steps and do the NFA paperwork for me, and make sure everything was done right.
But, I think his mind has snapped during this pandemic - he does not act normal - extremely uncommunicative like every word cost him a hundred dollars.
I suspect depression.
Maybe he will get better.
SBR might be in my future, or it might not.
I like the idea of using ordinary batteries one can buy in a hardware store - Lowes sells AA and CR123.
I want fast target acquisition - faster than using fixed sights.
All the choices are expensive - but better to be expensive and proven durable and reliable.
There are so many complaints of EOTECH forgeries, I'd have to buy it directly from EOTECH at suggested retail price.
And I may not buy an EOTECH/RDS - It is not a must have item.
But I have thought about it on and off for several years.
H