Finally got my M4 completely set up the way I want. No mods left to do except maybe get a decent sling. This began as a bone stock Bushmaster M4. After some disassembly, I realized that a previous owner had not known what he was doing with it. Some stuff was missing, some stuff was stripped and some stuff was just well hidden.
Before:
I hated the fixed carry handle and wanted a flat top so I could add optics. I got a new Del-Ton upper receiver for $95 and Gunbrokered off my old one for $105. Why would anyone pay that much for this? Then I got a new gas block to replace the old iron sight one. Then I got an Omega rail/free float tube. Then I got a very cool tac-light mount from Cheaper Than Dirt and slapped in one of my cheapo Surefires, which works great. Then I got a Millet Zoom Dot scope and "persuader" flash hider for those times when I need to lift up barbed wire and voila! She's done.
After:
Tomorrow I will go to the local gunshow and spend part of Grandma's b-day check on about 1000 rds. of .223. From now until the election, I will be putting a few hundred $$ a month into ammo hording. Remember - the revolution will not be catered! Oh, and I'll have my AZ CCW next week or so.