AR type thing

[Nelly2014]

The S&W 15-22 is a gateway drug when it comes to AR-15s. If you buy one it won't be long that you want as close to the real thing, which is full metal milspec.

I can't agree with this. I have a 15-22 and my desire to own a 'full milspec AR-15' will never be fulfilled in this ridiculous nanny state of ours so I don't worry about it.
Don't get me wrong, I like military guns having been in the forces in the cold war years but my desires are more towards AK's (got one), M14, Ruger Mini 14 etc in straight-pull.
I'll fulfill my other urges by going abroad to shoot.

[Blackstuff]

Agree with the above. I've previously owned a SGC Mini-master and .223 Speedmaster. For mini-rifle comps I really can't see the point of humping the extra weight of a 'real-steel' AR when a plastic fantastic 15-22 is far lighter, looks just as good and in most cases, is significantly more reliable, and my .223 VZ58 MARS, while dog ugly, does everything a straight-pull AR does and more, so in my circumstances they've lost all appeal.