Really, I'm not trying to Troll here.
Troy has made some interesting points about the advantages of some of the quality and testing that Colt does, and it's gotten me thinking for my next purchase.
A "proper AR" to me is one that is interchangeable, built as close to spec as possible.
I want standard parts, interchangable uppers (w/out tools - why would I want to carry screwdrivers when pushpins exist?), chromelining for durability and reliability, the ability to buy standard replacement components and not have to stock special, unique parts.
I could accept having to drill for the takedown pin, provided it was then a standard small hole upper/lower combo. Large hole = weaker, yes?
I can live with the autosear block, since it's unlikely I'll be doing FA, and it can be machined off if needed.
I believe FN can't sell to the civilian market because they are only licensed to use the design for government sales.
Presumably, Colt owns the right to sell to civilians since they owned the AR before the government bought it, and they have sold "milspec" guns to civiies before.
If Bushmaster can provide standard sized trigger pins and a front takedown pin, I'm sure Colt could if they wanted to.