Not at all man, I apologize if it came off that way. What I’m seeing lately is a lot of guys saying they want their first AR. Then others chiming in telling them to get what equates to a $3,500 rig with no mention of training.
If it was up to me, everyone would spend their first month with a stock AR like the 6920 or a similar BCM and attend a class or two. not because I feel everyone needs to master iron, just so they can understand what they really want and what the benefits are.
I can’t tell you the number of cops I work with that have an Aimpoint or EoTech but never really learned to use it. So, when they come up from a ready position, they try to center the dot in the optic instead of catching a quick flash of it on the target and firing. They got the gear, but never learned how to truly use it. For many, I can remove the optic and their first shot times will be similar.
That’s just one example. I’d start with a somewhat basic rifle. Learn the trigger then upgrade if needed. Remember, most triggers won’t be faster, though they may be more precise, more consistent and hel a bit in the accuracy department.
If you want a new rifle with an SSA, that cool. I wouldn’t recommend anything lighter than that. I’d probably recommend, if one feels they must have a new trigger, to try the ALG trigger that is basically a cleaned up GI trigger, or at most, the SSA.
Again, this is just an opinion. I work with shooters quite regularly, and I’ve seen the benefit of starting with a stock rifle and working up. Even if it’s only a very short time. I know it’s not as cool, but it will likely make you more effective.
I think a great starting point is the Colt 6920 with just a Magpul hand guard and possibly a new grip as the A2 can irritate some guys. Add a quality sling like the VCAS or VTAC, for example, a cheaper Surefire in a quality mount and if you feel you need an optic, buy quality, even if it’s used. You can easily get into a Comp M2 used for a little under $300.