We fortunately had the M-14 on my little ship in the Navy in the early '80s, not the poodle popper. When we had a security alert, I made sure I was 'fifth in line' at the armory, as that's the guy that got handed the M-14. The others got a Colt .45 pistol or a 12 gauge shotgun with limited ammo - I got three mags for the Big Rifle. I'd climb the Mack up to between the stacks, and I OWNED the entire deck. The others would sweep the passageways.
I'd still like to get an M1A one day to complete my collection of 'issued weapons' from my Navy Days, but the price just isn't right.
My view of the M-16 - great little varmint rifle. Not sure I'd want to go to war with it. But current tactical usage pretty much requires it and it's follow-ons.