When it comes to cheap and reliable, you can't beat an AK47. Piston powered and damn-near impossible to jam. 7.62x39 ammo is very cheap and abundant and I have found with my AK that it is quite accurate too, my Russian SKS takes that accuracy up a notch. Now my Colt AR is no slouch but it cost three times more and can be finicky to fowling due to it's direct impingement gas system. 5.56 ammo also is not as cheap as the 7.62. As others have said though, it is the king of customizable weapons, you can turn it into almost anything! Obviously, personal preference will play a key role in most peoples decision but if I were to choose between the two for a bug out weapon, I'd go with the AK. As for a long-range weapon, I'll go with my Springfield National Match M1A (M14) in 308. I'd go up against almost anyone with that one. (Ok, a Barrett 50 would smoke me!) Just my two cents and I'd like some change back please...