Disclaimer: I didn't have time to read all of the replies before mine.
If you're looking to stretch your dollar, you have two options.
Option 1: Check the classifieds and take advantage of one of the amazing deals going through there every day. You can find great rifles, some even with ammo to get you started shooting, for great prices.
Option 2: Wait for Black Friday Deals from PSA. They can get you a complete rifle kit minus lower and sights for much less than your budget. Then head on over to USDS and pick out whatever lower and sights that your heart desires. Anderson lowers are the best bang for the buck, while something like a Spike's will be a bit nicer and give you more options for roll marks. There really is no better feeling than looking at a rifle and saying "I built that."
If you're looking to stretch your dollar, you have two options.
Option 1: Check the classifieds and take advantage of one of the amazing deals going through there every day. You can find great rifles, some even with ammo to get you started shooting, for great prices.
Option 2: Wait for Black Friday Deals from PSA. They can get you a complete rifle kit minus lower and sights for much less than your budget. Then head on over to USDS and pick out whatever lower and sights that your heart desires. Anderson lowers are the best bang for the buck, while something like a Spike's will be a bit nicer and give you more options for roll marks. There really is no better feeling than looking at a rifle and saying "I built that."