I think the biggest reason for synthetic stocks is the way they react in inclement weather, they will not warp and affect you zero and do not require the care wood does. They make some really nice synthetic stocks that way out perform wood, great for the sportsman. Stainless steel and fiberglass are like bread and butter for the hardcore sportsman. Personally I prefer wood. I may learn to make my own stocks. I really love the look of handcrafted stocks with the finely checkered fluir'de lis checkering and high grade black walnut. It is sad that so few care to learn the trade. I have a guy that does "engraving" on stocks but uses a high speed pencil grinder and not the checkering chisels, just not the same. I love to look at the old muzzle loaders of the mid 1700's as they have a tremedous amont of handcrafted artistry! As far as AR's go, I can shoot them just the same, I want one for the spcific task of a reliable and accurate defensive carbine. They are like the Ruger 10/22, everybody makes gadgets for them! They are a proven platform. And finally, they are chambering them in more useful calibers.
