I find it fascinating that the AR didn't 'really' catch on (with the majority of shooters) until the barrel got shorter.
Maybe it was the AWB, maybe it was the interest in 2 wars and the weapons our guys use.. but suddenly EVERYONE has an AR and it's far and a above a 16 inch M-4 style barrel.
(Myself included)
Colt 6920, fixed 4x UTG scope, Houge monogrip, DPMS slip-over flashhider, some off-brand rubber butt pad and a DPMS leather shooting sling. I prefer a rifle without many 'add-ons'. No sense to me in making a carbine weigh more than a rifle.