People come on here all the time and ask this very question so here are a few threads I found for you to take a look at . They ask pretty much the same questions and you should find the answer your looking for .
http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=498501
http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=502931
http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=500261
http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=501059
This is just few that cover everything from high end to low end as well as building your own and staying compliant with your states laws . you can always do your own search to find other threads that can answer your questions on new AR buying .
As for buying used I wouldn't . your not going to save that much money . there are alot of good ARs out there right now for well under $1,000 . some starting at $599 . The M&P sprot is one
PSA
smith & wesson M&P sport
Del-Ton
Bushmaster
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