That’s why the Ruger Mini-14 is still popular. It’s a gas-operated semi-auto chambered in 5.56, but it looks less “assaulty” to the general public.
https://ruger.com/products/mini14RanchRifle/specSheets/5802.html
I think I need a Mini-14 that accepts AR magazines.
I have a Mini 14 with a Zeiss 3X9 scope. Great for busting coyotes. I took out a large sow pig with a shot in the ear.