I think each "elite" weapon should be able to compete with one another, and hand cannons are WAY stronger at almost any range than the ARs, but I still win some matchups with a suros vs hand cannon. I think the main problem with the AR nerf is that the range isn't there anymore, so most people use a different primary and roll with a shotgun. Then Bungie changed the Crucible ammo cause everyone started using the shotgun. I think it's time to put a bit more impact and range back into the elite "exotic" ARs. Does anyone use Hard Light? And it doesn't count if it's the only exotic primary you have lol.