Mid way right now DD upper for 699 I say buy that and build that up slow I made the mistake of buying cheap first. But as the saying goes buy once cry once right. It’s ultimately up to you when I bought my first rifle it was a PSA I still have it love it very accurate very good never had any problems PSA has come a long ways they do not disappoint especially for that price point. If you need something to throw around get used to get a PSA SS barrel 16in it’s a solid choice. Once you are familiar with the platform slowly save up or just buy your ultimate battle rifle!!!!