Not meaning to start an argument here because this thread is starting to go off topic already but...
This stuff about the AR being a piece of crap is just that, crap.
The AR platform has come a long way since Vietnam and with the correct ammo it can do the job.
Is there anyone here willing to stand up at 300 yards and take a hit from my AR? Probably not.
LE actually has a better deal going for it than the military. They are not limited to specific rounds like the FMJ and can select what they want.
I do like the AR10-series rifles but that is a hefty gun for the average guy not to mention a female that may have to schlep it around.
The 6.8spc may be the better caliber because its available now and just means swapping out the upper.
I've been reading stories coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan about ammo performance.
Bad guys are being killed by 5.56 and 7.62. And then there are instances where some are taking multiple hits from either till they are stopped.
Each situation seems to be different.
Check out these articles:
http://ammo.ar15.com/project/Self_De..._FAQ/index.htm
http://www.ar15.com/content/page.html?id=185
http://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=19881