I took it to the range yesterday but didn't even get to fire a shot. The threads on my cheap buffer tube stripped and the tube canted and I wasn't even able to chamber a round. Unfortunately I didn't bring another lower so the whole day was a bust.
That sucks dude. Hey man, that's how you learn. Grip panels- ebay ones are probably okay for a range toy. Anything else, I wouldn't touch ebay with a ten foot pole. It's all airsoft crap. Let us know how you like that scope - I've been eyeing it for awhile now, it looks like a good pricepoint and 1-8 would sure be handy. I've always been a big fan of 2-7 for being good general use scopes but 1-8 gives you the best of both worlds.
Good to see another budget AR builder. Bummer about the buffer tube.
I have had good luck with ebay so far. Some general advise for anyone who may find this topic useful... I find it can help to be selective about the seller. No china direct. And stick to sellers that seem to know what they are actually selling. Ask questions if need be. If they can't understand basic gun speak, run away. Use some common sense. It still can be a little dicey.