[MrEdd]

Because the platform is high maintenance, and short on weapon life.

It always has been.

[Durus]

It's neither. What causes most of the problems in America? It's the same thing that caused the initial problems with the M16 that gave it a bad rep. Yes, ignorant government bureaucrats making stupid decision. First they decided to change the ammo to a powder type which the M16 team strongly objected too. Second they shipped the rifles without cleaning kits. It was a bit of a one-two punch and the M16 has never lived down the reputation caused by moronic hacks.

If you attach a reciprocating mass to a barrel you create inaccuracy. If that reciprocating mass has lots of moving parts you introduce complexity. With an AR you have a tube. There isn't much to go wrong with a tube. Chrome&Coat the bolt and that rifle will be as reliable as any named as competition.

[saleman]

“Because the platform is high maintenance, and short on weapon life”

What???

The platform is probably the easiest to maintain weapon ever. And that includes over/under shotguns or pumps.

If anything does go wrong you just replace the part. In about 30 seconds. You may shoot out a barrel in about 35,000 rounds or so. Replace the barrel. Or, just replace the whole upper. Takes about 30 seconds. Damn...