Tman and I went to the range today and I brought an example of the two systems to shoot.

I will make some observations regarding the systems, but probably not solve the debate.

These are the rifles.

The top rifle is my vintage AR-15 like the one I carried at Fort Polk in Basic Training back in 1970.

The bottom rifle is a Maadi AK in 7.62 X 39.

It has a Kvar stock, which is slightly longer than the original.

Fit

Many find that the AR "fits" American sized men better than the AK.

Here I am with the AR.

The usual AK stock has a slightly shorter legnth of pull.

Mine has a longer stock.

No big winner with the longer stock, but I do find my front grip hand fits better on the AR, it seems.

Magazine Changes

The magazine release on an AK is most easily changed by using the left hand and gripping the release clamp with the thumb.

It "rocks" out, much like an M-14 variant.

I find this an uncomfortable movement to perform.

While the AK magazines are very stout, they must be carefully "locked" into the rifle.

The AR, on the other hand, allows the trigger finger to hit the magazine release and discard the mag one-handed, if desired.

Mag replacements are quick and positive.