I like the AR platform granted it's not a combat rifle and my life depending on it situation but there's alot of work been done on the reliabilty issues from way back.Alot of new companies build parts and customize them...better than Govt issue equipment but still the troops do modify them with aftermarket stuff to make better service weapons.Look at some of the rails,optics,stocks,and the quality control off the line has come along way.The M-1's and M-14's were great and still are,destorying them if stupid,but cost and ease of maint. on the M-4's have to play a part in some of this.I have a friend that said in Veitnam he woulda traded his M-16 for a AK in a heart beat due to gas tube and b/c being a problem! He said something about field stripping it to clean while being shot at was a PIA.The troops doing service should have some say so on what they carry and we should be able to buy the Garands and M-14's rather than wasteing them!