I like Bushmaster because, (1) I own one and never had a problem with it, (2) My department issued Bushmaster patrolman’s rifle and has functioned excellent during training exercise scenarios. Now, my opinion is based on the fact that I use and own Bushmaster rifles; also I’m in no way saying that Armalite rifles are not as good as Bushmaster rifles. I just never used one.
Now, you stated that your only two options are either the Bushmaster or the Armalite, well; first, I would figure out what type of rifle I want and then I would look at what does one have that the other doesn’t as far as options, and what’s the price difference between the two rifles. Opinions on the two rifles may vary or they may not, that’s the great thing about opinions everybody has one. Good luck.
B_W