Neo-Luddite
Member
Even for someone who loves the M-1 with devotion of a true believer, this is something of a silly debate; it really is apples and oranges.
That said, if the debate came down to ultimate service life of the receiver in total rounds fired, I'd put my money on the M-1 any day; it is one of the most over-built receivers in history. In 100 years from now they will still be on firing lines seeing hard use. But the fact is, the tollerances are such that a slighly bent op rod will ruin your day and you'll end up with a straight-pull bolt action.
On the whole, the AK is more rugged if the weapon will be subjected to harsh storage and un-trained use; just a simpler to care for and not damage in the process.
That said, if the debate came down to ultimate service life of the receiver in total rounds fired, I'd put my money on the M-1 any day; it is one of the most over-built receivers in history. In 100 years from now they will still be on firing lines seeing hard use. But the fact is, the tollerances are such that a slighly bent op rod will ruin your day and you'll end up with a straight-pull bolt action.
On the whole, the AK is more rugged if the weapon will be subjected to harsh storage and un-trained use; just a simpler to care for and not damage in the process.