I'm not entirely certain what to say on the matter… The fact that I stay close to my Hawksaw in PvP like it was my baby might be a tell tale sign though… Thing is, auto rifles are kept at the level (in PvP) where they are just barely viable. Generally, facing a pulse rifle in close range for an auto rifle or hand cannon can be a chore (likewise for Pulse) and that simply shouldn't be. I should feel like I have the advantage with a HC or AR in close range against a PR or even a scout rifle. Pulse rifles are in a middle ground but its reach in either direction tends to go far making it a very versatile weapon in PvP.