Having been born in the first half of the last Century, I tend to be "Old School" in relation to some issues. Firearms being one of those .....
I grew up Hunting, and Shooting anything I could get my hands on. I have had, and still do have, numerous versions of Military and Civilian .308 Bolt Action Rifles. During a few tours in the Jungles and Rivers of South East Asia, I was introduced to the attributes of the M16 and the M14 Rifles. I guess, due to my proclivity to be "Old School" I prefered the M14 and the 7.62x51 for it's long range accuracy, power, and general feel of a quality rifle. Due to my appreciation of the M14, I have a few versions of the Springfield M1a in my personal collection. I still very much enjoy them.
I am a FFL Dealer, and as such I come into contact with many different Platforms and Calibers of weapons. It took me awhile to come to appreciate the AR-15 but I finally did, and I now have a half dozen versions in my Safe. About 5 years ago, I was lucky enought to come across a "Shooter" who needed to sell a Stunning Armalite AR-10 adorned with a Nightforce Scope. I intended to re-sell it but had to "try it out" first. Needless to say, I still have it. Since then I have put aside a DPMS SASS, and just recently a Ruger SR-762. All great weapons!
Bottom line; I love passing on to my Kids, my respect and appreciation for, this Country, Our founding principals, the Second Amendment, the Principals and Benefits of Self Sufficiency, and Firearm Ownership.
Long Live the Republic!