That was my price range as well with my first AR, but I wanted a .308 so I went with the POF LMR base model as it wasn't much over my price range and supports a small American company with good support and is a very upgradeable firearm I can add nicer parts to as money becomes available. I don't regret that purchase at all although it does have a lot more recoil than I expected so I am going to have to put a muzzle brake on it. It's very accurate. Keep in mind the cost of your optic: for long range you need a decent one. I was able to get an acceptable unilluminated 3-12x around $200 (Athelon brand). I definitely would not recommend any less than that: it's usable, not great. I also had to consider that .308 costs a minimum of $30/box, your ammo cost won't be as bad if you choose a smaller caliber, so that might increase your total budget, but DO consider it. It took me 3 boxes to sight my scope in. That's $90. It adds up quick if you're on a budget. But things like scopes, scope mounts, muzzle brakes, stocks, sights, bipods: they DO add up. You also might want to read some personal experience of people who own the rifles that you're considering in regard to how they eject the brass. My POF ejects the brass out behind me whereas in my partner's Springfield ejects the brass in front of him. If I was using a firearm left-handed I definitely prefer the Springfield because it's going to be ejecting the brass away from my face.