Well Laz, this is a messy thread you’ve started, and I wouldn’t expect any less of you, moreover I believe I actually have something unique to add:
The AR-15 and M-16 variants are wildly overpriced, overrated, inaccurate carbines with limited lethality per shot at almost any range. “Tumbling” was a lucky break for the .223: the cartridge is light and you can pour ‘em all over the target. THAT is why we have the M-16. They’re cheap, the ammo is cheap, and hey, they jam.
Protecting your home? .00 Buck in a Mossberg 500 or .357 Mag in a revolver is your friend. Your farm? Any hunting rifle with a scope: the noise of a heavy 30-06 will scare the hell out of almost anyone. Want to spray ‘em all over? Why not pick a more reliable weapon - namely, an AK variant.
I appreciate the historicity of the M16A1s and later versions but I have also fired thousand of rounds through them, and frankly, they leave me WAY nonplussed.
As you seem to seek a true “black rifle” at these high prices, why not look at a Ruger 22 semiauto with lots of picaninny toys or on the lower end one of those Remington Vipers (had one and loved it - people say they suck but mine didn’t) at a coupla hundred bucks a pop - with as much ammo as you want (FMJ for semis is best)on a fraction of the budget.
and on the high end - why not a fine Mini 14?
Flame on - but the Bushmaster is overrated...
And the sights sucked when I trained on ‘em and still do.
Love ya Laz! You always know how to start a safe firefight!
Golux
Very interesting response. Thank you.
I am a little concerned about your discussion of the Mini 14, though. A poorer rifle is hard to find.