About a year ago, I was in the market for a new duty carbine. I compared the available models (including the Bushmaster Carbon 15) against each other. I bought the flattop DPMS A-4 in 6.8 SPC. These can still be had for under $900. Only problem has been scarcity of ammo (no longer a problem) and the high price of OEM magazines ($43). I have mine set up with a Wilson Combat iron sight /scope mount, a MicroDot 1.5-4.5 x 20mm illuminated dot scope, a quick release receiver mount sling, smaller diameter forend, and flashlight (Streamlight copy) on right side of front sight. I might add, that in the area I work in (N TX), I see a lot of Rock River and DPMS being used. That's not saying anything bad about the Bushmaster, but, among my officers, it doesn't seem to have the popularity of other manufacturers (not a scientific study - just a personal observation).