Kartographer suggests an AK74 and there is nothing wrong with that choice. But I prefer western firearms. The AR-15 is a great choice and the direct competitor with the AK74. Ammo is a bit more expensive but it is much more widely available. I can even buy it at the local Wal-Mart.
If you want a lot more stopping power, the go for the ever classic M1A (a civilian version of the M14) or the Free World’s Right Arm (FWRA) aka the FAL. Both shoot very common .308 Winchester ammo and are very good rifles.
If you have those stupid magazine restrictions in your state, then get the greatest battle implement ever devised; the M1 Garand. They are a great buy and you can get a service grade (functional with a good barrel but definitely used) for a mere $595. The 8 round clip is legal in all states and with a little practice you can easily put 30-40 aimed shots downrange.
P.S. the M1 Garand takes .30-06 ammo although you can’t use just any .30-06 in it.
I recommend for the following reasons:
1. Cost both of weapon and ammo.
2. Easy of operation and ease of cleaning.
3. Take alot of abuse and still keep firing.
4. Tumbling action of the rounds. Taliban can them ‘posin bullets, because of the wounds it makes.
5. It’s low recoil makes it easy for anyone to use.
Don’t get me wrong the AR is one fine weapon, but I can get a AK74 and the 2180 rounds for the cost of a low end AR and at less than 10 cents a round I can afford to shoot it often.