I'm pretty sure you're right. I know that the Montana state prison guards use Ruger Mini-14 GB models, and a couple of years back there was a news article about a Montana State Trooper who'd emptied a 20-round magazine from his *M-14* into a Grizzly, which annoyed the bear, which then walked away. I don't think that would have been the case with 20 rounds of 7.62 NATO from a GI M14, even with ball ammo.
There IS quite a difference between the teo....
that’s an AC556, but I get your point. Personally I’d rather have a FAL than a M14 for everyday use. M14 is a target rifle, FAL is a battle rifle.