I've been kicking around the idea of getting something a little cheaper on ammo than my old Mosin. And preferably something that doesn't fuck my shoulder and arm up after 50 rounds.
I'm currently caught between a cheap ass 9mm high point rifle, or building my own based around a modified AR-15 lower receiver.
I've gotten to fire the high point before and wasn't quite satisfied with the quality, the foregrip in particular seemed really cheap.
The cost difference seems to be about three times what I would pay for the high point. I know that rifle won't be the most durable in the long run. But is it really worth it to put the cash forth for a full on build?
Note: I only shoot for fun, so while I don't mind putting forth the cash for a high quality rifle, it's not quite a necessity. I would just like some input from more experienced individuals before making a decision.
An AR build is fairly easy to accomplish, though I haven't done one myself. I'm more into older rifles and have never been bitten by the AK/AR bug. The advantage would be that you can customize it with what you want, over what is mass marketed. Beyond that, I'd personally avoid a Hi-Point. You nailed it on your own evaluation. But to each his own, and if it's good for you, no shame in that.
I could send you to that 'other' site, I've personally posted a lot on AR builds in a sub there which might be helpful if you go that route. If you want to look, goto the ar15 sub, but I like it here, so won't link - LOL. I get the cost thing, but I think you could get a 9mm carbine other than Hi-Point for less that 3xs the cost. And there's always used stuff (not 9mm, but 7.62x39 which is readily available) like Yugo SKSs. Good luck with this, and if ya go with Hi-Point, no one's gonna fault you with the way you've laid this out.