My thought process on R vs NR:
For competition (multi gun action shooting), shorter barrel length of R means lighter and better handling rifle in general. Accuracy doesn't matter as much as long as it's under 3~4 moa. None of the transport restriction on R matters here.
For hunting, must be NR. But how useful is 223 semi for hunting? IMO the only things where 223 semi does significantly better than others are coyote, groundhog, and other similar sized game. If you don't plan to hunt those often, then it doesn't really play into consideration. If you are absolutely set on hunting with a semi, then an AR102 variant (Stag10/BCL102 etc.) in 6.5 caliber would probably be more suitable, as long as you can keep the weight down to about 8~9lb with optic.
For target practice, ask:
- Does your regular club even allow R?
- How much accuracy do I need? If all I can shoot is 100 yard paper from bench rest, then I probably want a rifle system that's capable of ~1MOA. This means your picks will be limited to a rifle system that can easily take upgraded barrel and trigger. AR15 is the cheapest option that allows for this. NR options includes anything that takes AR barrel and trigger, like SLR/ATRS MS/WK180/WS-MCR.
- Do I want to shoot in the wild? Often I find I have other guns I want to shoot in the wild too (often for longer range) and I won't feel missed out leaving the semi 223 at home.
For myself, my answer is WK180C, because my outdoor range does not allow R, I hunt coyote, and I need a rifle that can be accurized for paper poking. It does fill the competition rifle role, but not without compromise. My 14.5" Norinco AR is much more suited for competition and cost less than 1/2 of the price.
As for politics and bans, they do not influence my decision. Buy what you like today and enjoy it now.
