Just One Rifle?

[HAWKFISH]

I would recommend either an AK-47 or an AR-15 either one. AK's are tough as nails and ammo is cheaper as of now. AR's are more finackie (dunno bout spelling...hence bout.. anyway) and ammo is higher.. but you get better accuracy and longer moa shots..  either are a worthy investiment these days.. get something.. anything.. that you can. Both are good.

[Ron J]

Lots of good choices in this thread.  You can get a great AR for under $1g that meets you needs  with 223 ammo and mags being rather cheap.

My 2¢, I like rifles that are capable of MOA or sub-MOA accuracy.  I haven't seen any (but am sure there are) AKs or Mini-14's/30's that can group that tight.  There are a lot of AR's and M1A's that can. 

[2HOW]

m25operator opens up the choice into the .308 world as he should. Best battle round made. Its up to you to make a choice of where you would make a stand. and how much open ground between you and the agressor. In my world I choose AK and may go for a CETME if classic keeps selling them as cheap as they are. 3 rifles everyone should own  762x39- 5.56 or 545x39- and .308. I should add the 762x54.