Free: Contests & Raffles.
Might want to take a look at the Ruger AR-556. One of our local shops is selling them for 569.00. http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2014/09/29/ruger-ar-556-modern-sporting-rifle-ruger-ar-15-budget/
Hooked On Toys in Wenatchee. (509)663-0740 Ext-4 they usually sold them quick when they came in. I saw 12 set aside and already sold when I was there last, when some were delivered.
ctd is selling LE6920 complete uppers with troy rails for $550.Despite the carbon gas system [seems everyone prefers mid length], this is a great deal. I'm considering that upper or a BCM mid length upper. the BCM costs an extra $250 though....not sure if mid length is worth an extra $250..I'll go with anderson, aero, or SAA lowers from SAA.
Just remember that Troy Industires supported the shooting of an unarmed woman and little kid at Ruby ridge....I would check out the Busnell 1x4 iluminated with the bad lever 1st plane optic. On 1x it looks like a red dot with a circle but when you bump it up to 4x (the lever is nice for that) there is the built in 223 drop out to 400 yards or so. Check it out, i think you will like it for a smaller magnification scope...BTW why get a bull barrel in 16"? It sounds like you are going for a lighter carbine style rifle instead of a longer range shooter? I would think that a bull barrel in 18-20 would be better for those longer shots... But you only want a lower pwer scope...