I've had an itch to get some sort of semi-auto .308 rifle for some time, and I have zero experience with any of them. I could get an AR-10 since I'm familiar with the platform, but which of the three different patterns do I get? I've wanted to try out an FAL, and I think I might be leaning that way, but they're pricey. I'd like this thing to be reasonably light weight.

I really need to stay close to $1,000 with this. As of right now I have no money for the project, so I would be selling off part of my knife collection. My collection is so small right now that $1,000 would take a huge chunk out of it.

I would love to hear your suggestions.