Need some opinions/ advice from some of you "gun hands"

WV64Signet said
There are a number of manufacturers that are producing decent pieces. The grail used to be the sub-$1k AR. Not sure if that's the case any longer. Like everything else, it will depend on what you're intent is for use. Barrel length, type optics, bolt, gas tube, furniture etc will drive price. Old school long barrel, full stock M16 with carrying handle, M4 or precision rig.
Can't say I've often if ever seen an AR in the Used rack

The usual manufacturers will provide your high-end arm. Some of the best lesser known brands like Del-Ton are quality entry pieces. Lots of info out there on the interwebs.

Good luck.

Del-Ton is what I bought about 3 years ago for something like $700. It is fine as far as I can tell. There was a Daniel Defense available also at that time for $2000. A friend told me that was like a Lamborgini and I didn't really need that. Later in every comparison article I read, the Daniel Defense was rated #1. Kinda wish I had gotten it.
As far as eye sight and scopes, I went with this.

Primary Arms SLx 5x36mm Gen III Prism Scope 710028 Color: Black, Fabric/Material: Aluminum, w/ Free Shipping

I love it. It can help you determine range. I tried some scopes with more magnification, but for me, it just makes the target appear to move around too much, meaning I can't hold the rifle still enough. But even 3x makes a lot of difference for me on targets around 80 to 100 yards. I have gotten great service from opticsplanet. I have tried red dot sights which can be good to get on target quickly, but for pin point accuracy, the red dot seems to me to block the target in the sight. It just gets me real close.

I get my ammo from

Outdoor Limited | Cheap Ammo For Sale | Buy Bulk Ammo Online

5.56 is from $0.40 per round and up. I would suggest not buying very much ammo until you try different brands with your rifle. They don't all shoot the same as in accuracy.
Some good gun comparisons here.

https://www.usa-gun-shop.com/