I hope I do not get flamed for saying so, but personally I think the AC is one of the most irresponsible gun handling techniques that could be used when it is used IN THE PRESENCE OF OTHERS.

My own experience in Africa, plus watching video after video demonstrates the constant sweeping of others with the muzzle of the gun when this carry method is used in a crowd. I fully understand that the muzzle is "theoretically" in the best control of the carrier, and if he trips and falls he is going to guide the muzzle straight in to terra firma, but in fact, the constant sweeping of others that I have observed makes me rank this as a dangerous carry method in-general. It leaves the trigger unseen to the man carrying the gun, open to brush and other potential mayhem and whenever a man turns he often inadvertently sweeps his buddies with the muzzle. The only time I carry a longarm this way with others about is when I am out in front and we are hiking single file in open country. In my country, use of this carry method results in a beatup stock, too, as it is very difficult in the woods to use this carry method and not whack the stock on a regular basis.

Having said that, I use it alot myself because I rarely use a sling when actually hunting and hiking {though I have one in a pocket} and I do not hunt in a crowd as is common with "tourist hunting" in Africa. This method is very comfortable and the rifle can be carried quite a long time without getting tired {more comfortable than a sling to me} and I often use it getting to and fro, but not much for woods stalking, obviously, as the gun is not quickly available and it tends to snag in the dense pines. Including hunting seasons, I calculate I carry on foot, in the woods and mountains, just under 1,000 miles a year, maybe a little more than that. This mileage is in fact split somewhat between pistol and rifle/shotgun but you get the picture. I am alone or with one other person most all the time.

Open country and alone, fine. In woods and with others, almost never.