On the LAR note, true, it does more damage but its still not superior to an overly imbalanced weapon like M14.
Its semi-auto fire rate enables Sharpies to "mop" up trash, + its perk benefits allows it to take out bigger specimens.
Unless you have range to work with the LAR, you won't be able to take on 3 or 4 fps that pop outta nowhere and STILL have dual HCs to blast whatever trash is left, and yes this is on suicidal, its around 6 Headshots with an M14, (8 on 6 man suicidal).
And about the need of an exit in case of getting zerged? any decent SS (those that 'actually' aim) holding an M14 won't get zerged. Its body damage is enough to take out trash + the amount of ammo allows us to recklessly spam, hence m14 griefers.
And how can you say
"unloading 20 bullets over the course of a few seconds, I highly doubt you'll be landing more than a few head shots, let alone even hitting your target. The recoil from the m14 is ridiculous when not using the SS perk, and even with the SS perk"
Recoil is pretty easy to figure, it ain't that hard just takes a lil practice. + m14 has the laser sight, hipshooting has never been easier. Most lvl5-6s that actually play on suicidal don't even use the laser sight and can pop head with ease.
On a personal note, i do prefer LAR, only because of the bolting action it does
other than that, shotties ftw