I'd have to go with the AR, hands down. ANY well-made rifle will function if it is maintained. You check the oil and the brakes, and all the other things in your car, don't you? The AR, too, can be used for hunting(a lot of guys do it). You couldn't PAY me to go hunting with an AK. And it may not seem like it, but for defense, the 5.56mm rd is much better than 7.62x39mm. In real-world combat, If you can strike from a distance, you stand a much better chance of winning. The AK is just not designed for, nor is it capable of, long range engagement. The AR15 is very capable of engaging targets out to 500yds. Not taken as a flame, either, by the way. Really, though, if you're more confident with an AK, by all means, use it! Me, I've owned both, and am far more confident in my AR.