The accurate term for these rifles is “Modern Sporting Rifle”
Actually, I like "assault rifle" just fine ... because we both know that that was what they were invented for, back in World War II.
The SKS and German G43, which was based on Russian design, were sturdy, lightweight, moderately-powerful and modestly-accurate ("good enough for government work"). Their medium-powered cartridges outperformed the pistol ammo used by submachine guns, and they were wieldy.
Our own M-1 Carbine belonged in the same class and is probably the best of the bunch. I know I wouldn't mind owning a fine vintage Rock-Ola or Underwood carbine. My uncle dragged one all the way across North Africa, Sicily, and France with the Big Red One, and it got him home.