I'll just do some random function comparisons.
Weight:
Advantage - M16 platform
Safety/Selector:
Advantage - M16 is easier to operate with one hand, AK variants require reposition of hand, and have longer travel.
Magazine:
Advantage - M16 drops out with one hand while other hand makes switch. AK requires entire operation to be handled one handed, or by moving hands off the rifle, plus removing and inserting magazine is harder to do quickly(paddle release is not easy)
Bolt/charging handle:
Advantage - M16 bolt release is easy to reach, and even the charging handle can be operated without moving your rifle off target. AK variants bolt is on the wrong side requiring reaching over the rifle or moving your trigger hand off.
BUUUUUUUUUUT........
That could be moot if you don't take care of your M16 and it gets dirty.
I would have to say that the AK is a great weapon to give to untrained people as even though the operation is more awkward, it's probably not going to slow them down since they can't do it fast either way. Also, if they can't perform takedown and maintanence, the AK's resistance to dirt and stuff will mean dirt will only impact performance, not outright function.
I may be off base here. But I think I am not.
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