[FLAMING DEATH]

While we’re at it:

I’d like a midweight .223 auto...
that was as reliable as an AK...
that takes AR mags...
with lightweight aluminum or stamped steel construction, designed from the outset to work with a piston mechanism, and accepts a folding stock (no buffer tube).

Accuracy isn’t paramount. 2” groups at 100 would make me happy.

Don’t get me wrong. I like AR’s, but want something that’s almost zero maintenance, without the infuriating “star chamber”.

The .223 AK and Mini 14 are close, but take special mags. The Kel-Tec SU 16 from a functionality standpoint is perfect (except for the aforementioned star chamber), but there’s too much plastic. Not that I’m opposed to that, but I worry about long term durability.

There’s really nothing out there that fits this niche.

Is there?

[Yosemitest]

I'm not an expert on the .223, although I did make Expert Marksman with one in 1994.
But I agree that a survival, lightweight, breakdown .223 as you described, would sell.

[mylife]

A little heavy and it does not use AR mags.

http://centerfiresystems.com/rifle-c93.aspx