My "black rifle"..

[ironglow]

  I have had many black rifles...by way of a black fiber stock, and NOT by way of an AR.
 
     I guess I am a rare bird, since I am not a fan of the current "Mattel" style rifles.  Nothing wrong with the AR,
     but for me it doesn't seem to answer for what I like in a gun.
 
      I have tried the black rifles.. the Butt plate doesn't fit properly, there is usually a long magazine hanging down in
      the way. 
       The forestock doesn't lend itself to a comfortable grip, and there seem to be numerous 'snag points' sticking out
      all over the thing..not so good when hunting in thick brush.

       Of course, that black rifle has few peers as a combat rifle, since it is so versatile, and a base for other military
   systems, but I don't see that transferring to civilian usage.

    Having used them, I am well aware of one stark advantage other than larger  caliber, that the M1 or M14 has over the AR...and that is their suitability to mount a bayonet.  Just can't picture an AR as a great bayonet host...

   Surely some others must think the same way..  Below; one of my black rifles  A Savage 93F in 22 mag.

[Casull]

I actually pretty much agree with everything you stated.  I bought an AR a couple of years ago, because I just had to have one.  A year later, I sold it having only put 15 rounds through it.  Just didn't feel good in the hands.  To each their own.

[Dee]

Admittedly the AR15 is for many "an acquired taste". I preferred the Mini14in the beginning because it felt more "traditional", and I for the most part solved their accuracy issues.

But my necessary constant training on a weekly basis forced me to familiarize myself with the AR15 platform to the point I realized all its advantages, and now, its my only center fire rifle, and I'm completely comfortable with. But realistically, it ain't for everyone.

[Casull]

Dee, did you finally get rid of your 30-30?

[Dee]

Dee, did you finally get rid of your 30-30?

Gave it to my oldest son.

[ironglow]

  I expect it is just a matter acclimating oneself to the platform.  The AR  certainly performs well for coyote hunters who do get comfortable with the rifle.

[Dee]

I killed 2 big bucks with mine this year.

[ironglow]

  I would use my .223 for deer, without hesitation..  Shot placement is where it is at !  ..But if you need it, there is a quick followup  available, with the AR.

   I'm probably spoiled as to rifle shape. My brother  (now his heirs) has a Thompson sub machine gun  the old 45
 cal  "Tommy gun".  I have fired it, but didn't care for it since it felt like I was holding a gun made by cutting it out from a 2X10.

  He had both magazines, but normally used the straight one, since the drum lacked dependability.

  I did take a liking to the M14..and the old M1 and M2 carbines were very popular with the guys who used them.

  Mossberg, Marlin, Savage and the Ruger, each made a form of a knockoff copy..and they sold well.

[Dee]

I owned a Thompson with 3 sticks and a drum. For about a week. Too heavy for my line of work.

[ironglow]

I owned a Thompson with 3 sticks and a drum. For about a week. Too heavy for my line of work.

  Yes..that too !