Ultimately, I want nice stock like a MagPul or something else a little more unusual. I want a unique handgaurd. I love the "Hotrod" handgaurd on the DPMS sight, but it isn't for a 308. I don't care for the quadrail styles. I would like a 16"-20" fluted stainless barrel threaded for a custom flash hider. It needs to be a flat top since it will be equipped with a night vision scope. I would prefer the dust cover but it is not a necessity as it will be a hunting rifle that probably won't be going through heavy brush. Also it can't weigh a ton since I will be toting it for some distance. Any other suggestions like a charge handle or something? I don't know much about the AR family (handgun guy) but it looks like the best option for a semiautomatic 308 hunting rifle that has customization capabilities. Most of the customizations I want are just to make it look the way I like (lots of stainless) and make it more unique. It will take several years for me to get everything the way i want it since funds are short for weapons. So I am looking for a model that I can build on that is functional at about $1000. Thanks again for the guidance. I hate sounding like a newbie, but I would rather ask dumb questions and end up with one that fits the bill than keep quiet and end up with a stock gun that I can't change anything or just doesn't work for what I want.