As I got into ARs a couple decades ago, I found I was shooting them more often than all other firearms combined. To me, the ergonomics are outstanding. I've shot a bunch of coyotes with them. Picked up a LaRue PreatAR in .308 and it's become the first rifle I reach for when hunting white tails from a box blind because ot he ergos, quick follow up shots and outstanding accuracy. I find it nearly perfect for shots in our destination plot out to 350yds. One huge additional motivator is our governor has made a practice of pontificating that "no one hunts deer with assault rifles." I think of him every time I head to the blind:). Would it be my first choice for long range hunting out west? No, that's what my Weatherbys are for. Is it my first choice in super thick cover from a treestand? No, this is where my Whelens shine.
