Thanks for the responses guys. Here's some additional info.
As far as purpose(s), I'm into local matches that are mostly tactical (read -- close-up-n-per'nal
) action shoots, although occasionally someone gets cute and throws in a 100-yd or so stage. In addition -- and given the times we're in -- I want something around other than a handgun for a real-world, God-forbid, SHTF scenario.
Secondly, there is nearby help. From the matches I know a lot of shooters far more knowledable than myself on most any topic (well...shooting related anyway, not necessarily things like nuclear physics, ancient philosophy, the meaning of life, etc.). One particular individual (who also happens to be an arfcom moderator) is (1) especially into rifles, (2) owns and likes AK's, FAL's, Galils M1A's, etc.
better than AR's -- he actually just sold the one he used to have, (3) works in one of the prominent area gun stores that (4) stocks Arsenal AK's ! ! !
Needless-to-say, this person was one of the several Evil Influences
that got me into this rifle stuff altogether, and he still maintains I'd be better off with any of the aforementioned than my AR. (He's actually a real easy-going guy and isn't "pressuring" me into anything -- I'm just trying here to get as many other perspectives as possible.)
So, hope y'all come back to this thread and tell me more -- thnx again!