I think that fact that there is no surplus is indicative of a better trend in Government planning and spending. Surplus military weapons came from having too many of the old style weapons left over after new weapons were issued. But then, no one knw how long WWII was going to go on for, and weapons were being made under contract due to need.
There have been some improvements made to Mr Stoner's design, but in all fairness, I can't see the venerable battle rifle of the US being phased out any time soon. Pretty much says a lot about the ARMALITE model 15, does it not?
Let's not even begin to discuss Kalishnikovs. They are the surplus weapon of choice for terorists the world over. But, other people like them too.
Personally, I'd like to see a magazine fed Marlin. Accurate, and dependable. With a banana clip, they'd be the stuff.
Stretch
Quit cigs 1W 19h 12m ago. So far saved $46.80, 312 cigs not smoked.and counting .