I saw a S&W AR that just came out a few weeks ago with no forward assist on it? It was priced at $700. I am not a fan of Smiths AR's but not really sure why. Anyone seen this?
It is common for AR mfgs to make a "sporter" model that will omit the forward assist, dust cover, and sometimes even the shell deflector. DPMS Sporticle is one example. They are more streamlined, and supposed to be cheaper. Many times, they will also have thinner barrels as well, and may lack sights.