I have been doing the same research. And I stopped and have spent a few hours talking to a gun smith at a local range. He said that for a starter build pistol the SA RO is his go to for himself and his customers. If you don't do that than he said Dan Wesson. Then if you have the funds for any more.... Well we can dream

I just found a sale for a war sports industries lower complete for $699...
It an ambi forged lower with some upgrades it also comes with a carry case fora broken down ar rifle and some other stuff. Not sure if it's a good or bad buy. Comes with plenty of upgrades. But I'm torn between that or buying tools and starting to build from scratch.