In the late 90'sI owned a mini-14 that shot the typical 4"-6" groups. Fast forward to today, I have a 583 series mini-14 RR that I bought for just over $600.00. With the standard gas port the ejection of a spent casing is, well, "enthusiastic". A .040 gas port from ASI tamed it down for little money. The accuracy is 2"-3" at 100 yards, well within my needs. Yes I have experienced the AR. Carried an M-16 for 20 years and was the first officer in my department authorized to carry an AR. I just prefer the handling of the mini-14.