I can agree with that.
As a friend once said to me, “you can always build a better mouse trap”. I’m a fan of the M4 and 5.56. I think so much of this debate and I think the gist of the article is, there’s better stuff out there. Even if we’re talking about modifying the existing platform, with better triggers, operating systems(mid length - pistons), and better ammo.
At the end of the day, the best thing about an AK is the operating system, which was copied from the Germans and used in the M14 and other .308 battle rifles back in the day.
It’s a never-ending debate. One day we’re likely to see an argument between particle beam and plasma weapons on this forum.
The AK can be said to have the STG44 as an inspiration, but the M14 has the M1 Garand for inspiration. Operating system is nothing like an AK.