So you're basically preaching to this dude that he should spend more money and break the bank to get a Bushmaster or Colt because of (IMO) negligable differences in what makes a functional rifle?
Yeah, I've had no problems with my DPMS. But then again I don't shoot it often. I clean it and take good care of it. I've made consistant shots at 100 yards, which is the max range I ever plan on shooting with any sort of armed interdiction (with this weapon). With a 16" barrel, it isn't what I would define as a reliable sniper rifle (even scoped). With a 20" or 24" barrel, that could change. But if you're going to hunt at over 100 yards anyway, then get a good bolt action with a good scope. My DPMS will put a man down at any range within 100 yards, and that's all the comfort I need. The same could be said for sporting/hunting purposes, but I'm not a hunter nor do I compete.
mc223, you're obviously biased here, as are we, but since he asked about DPMS in particular, I think DPMS owners are simply more qualified to comment about the product rather than a guy who took the advice of a gunsmith (no doubt influenced by prices and corporate politics like any other gunsmith out there who buys parts). And I don't mean any personal offense intended, either. Just merely perpetuating the vicious cycle of internet debating by commenting on what I see.
bang_bang, for your purposes, and for your budget, I recommend going with the DPMS. Like I said before, you can always put in aftermarket parts at your own leisure later on if you need to. I've run stock all this time without a single hitch/jam/malfunction, but as I said, I don't shoot it often and I clean my weapon after each session.
