I picked up a Marlin 795 recently for $125, it is a fun plinker. I wanted a M&P 15-22 but decided to spend about $300 less and the the 795.
I see that you are near Noblesville, the last time I was in Bare Arms (the new gun shop by SR 37) they had both an M&P 15-22 and a colt ar style 22, I don;t recall the prices, but if they still have them you should be able to check them out side by side