ARD ENTERPRISES,INC were made of aluminum, which is light. However, aluminum is also much weaker than steel. In order to compensate for the weaker/lighter alloy, hard-coat anodizing the receiver gave it a hard, durable outer shell. The safety and magazine release are easy to find and manipulate, which allows it to act as an extension of the user. In 1967, the USAF adopted the rifle and made it their primary infantry weapon for all of the branches of the US military.