Dean has the best stocks but they are expensive and look to be out of your stated price range. CMPicon stocks are fine but need some fitting work(nothing a novice couldn't handle)and staining.

Yes you can repair a split/cracked handguard. I've mended quite a few. On some the crack is visible, but I've been able to hide/blend-in the cracks pretty good over time and with practice. I use gorilla glue.