Best Ar-15 for about $1000

there are a couple of M&P15s that come with carry handles, but I don't think any Sport II does. they typically come with no rear sight or a MBUS rear sight. regardless, no M&P15 comes with a fixed carry handle, only removable, so even if that's what you end up with, you can change it.

Sport IIs are good-to-go, and while you can spend much more and potentially get a better rifle, it's hard to make a recommendation without knowing your plans for said rifle. if it's for plinking and home defense, you can't beat the M&P15 Sport II new for under $600. Gunbuyer has it for $550 + shipping right now. comes with a MBUS rear sight. take the money you saved and buy magazines, ammo, and maybe an optic of some kind.

if you want to spend $1,000 on a rifle just because, then look at Windham Weaponry and Stag Arms. They make more expensive rifles that are still a good value.

/r/ar15 Thread