I'd rather have an AR-15 than my dad's Ruger Ranch Rifle, but with a pre-ban 40 round magazine, accuracy isn't an issue a long range. But I've shot targets with the newer stainless steel Ruger Mini-14, and I fired 20 rounds as fast as I could fire on a target at 40 yards and got them all within about 2", which is pretty good.
But I feel very comfortable with the AR-15 platform, I think it is very ergonomic and easy to use, and is very accurate. While I wouldn't call it the best rifle in the world, it is a proven weapon that many prefer.
Now if .223/5.56 wasn't so god damned loud! I'm amazed anyone who's ever used one in combat can still here. You never feel compelled to plink with an AR, unless you want people a few miles away to know.
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