I've been doing research to do the same thing. Target of 7lbs or so. Here's one good article I found. https://www.shootingillustrated.com/content/building-a-lightweight-ar-10-on-a-budget/ I've been using it as a baseline for component weights. When I find a part I like I compare the...
My dad was there for Operation Wigwam in the Pacific. 1955. He told me stories about the mistakes that were made. The National Archive sent me a copy of his commendation which was pretty cool. He did pass from cancer.
100% agree with this. I've had mine for at least 5 years and have sharpened hundreds of knifes. Would have never finished them all using stones. I practiced on cheap kitchen knifes.