Maybe a better name for this type of weapon than "AW" might be Semi -Auto or Auto Rifle, some of us here are a bit anal about the "AW" word.
The entire AK lineup was also designed around a couple/ few other than non ballistic characteristics. Cheap, easy and fast to build, as loose as a $5 W%ore and the ability to swap parts like a Chevy Nova. Only weapon you can literally throw into a mud-pond and have a likelihood of it still firing without a thorough cleaning. Its certainly not the most accurate weapon Ive ever fired but Ive only fired stock weapons, not build ups.
They are fun to fire and probably still can get some cheap chi-com ammo for it. Great SHTF weapon cause parts and such can be made on a simple lathe by a machinist but unless you burn it up, its likely gonna stay working with very little maint.
I dont have either, Ive had my share of both and prefer a shotgun over all of them but if I wanted a Target Sport Weapon, the AR would be my choice. If I wanted to throw endless lead in the worst of conditions, give me an AK anytime...