it is an open ended question really, when you think to its original use, much like the early M16 it was a mass produced rifle to issue to troops. plain and simple.

you have to admit, becuase of its huge tolerances, it is by far the most reliable rifle, is it the most comfortable to shoot or tacti"cool" probably not.

you have to consider the SIG Commando rifle used by the french, and also do not forget the FAL. which will probaly be another forum for another time !

so to answer your question, no its not the best ever made, but certainly one of the most historic rifles ever made