I know right but the only real problem with it is you can't really get a brand new one for under $800 I've seen them go for rare occasions 699 but it's always a synthetic stock version, I want one that has the wooden stock and they're always $799, last two AR-15s I've built where about $380 bucks total cost each.
@@abcdaw22 Bro what? Overpriced? The Ruger Security 9 is an excellent pistol and is under 300 dollars. Give me a single example of a Ruger firearm that is overpriced garbage.
I still have my Mini 14 from 78. Still shoots like a dream even after all these years and thousands and thousands of rounds. Love it ! It is my go to rifle from pest control and plinking to home defense.
I purchased my first Mini14 ranch rifle in 1985. I still have it and have put thousands of rounds through it . It has been reliable and lots of fun. I decided to purchase a new model a couple of years ago and give my original to my son. I have an AR as well but there is something about a Mini that keeps me coming back. Thanks for the video!
My dad bought his in the early 90s. By the late 90s at 18 I bought my first (ban era) Colt HBAR. back then I thought my plastic, black, tacticool was so much cooler than my dads fudd wood mini 14. Now hes gone and I own that fudd mini. He was right it was always cooler.
Despite my trying to talk him out of it, my brother-in-law bought the Mini 14 Tactical over an AR-15. I have to say that I like the thing. Inside of 200 yards there really is no downside. And let’s be honest, 5.56x45mm is a 200 yards round if you wanna consistently drop something the size of a human or a whitetail (I can already hear the keys clicking to rebut this well established assertion). Thanks for the video!
I've heard many stories from the Marines I work with. Sometimes it drops a gihadi dead in his tracks at long range distances over 300 meters. They also have shot or seen them be shot over 15 times with 50 yards and still keep running. They suspected they were on some type of drug because normally a person isn't going to take 15 shots or more from a 556 and keep going.
ehhh run those 75gr or 77gr BTHP or TMK pills and youll still have 500+ftlbs of energy at 300 yrds in a 16" barrel. Theyre expensive but great. It also explains Richards comment. most soldiers shooting under 200m are using 62gr or 55gr ammo and its not as effective. The guys landing hits are typically using Mk12's if theyre connecting at 3-400yrds with the heavier BTHP or SMk. Kris Kyle rarely used 556 but when he did it was a Black hills 77gr. He recomended 556 if using 64gr or heavier loadings.
I hear you. Don’t shoot me with anything but if I’m relying on something to save my bacon it’s gonna have more punch than 5.56. My AR is in 6.5G. 6.5G in an AR is superior to 5.56 in every regard except a small decrease in magazine capacity.
@@Richard-wz9uh its better ballistically but marginally. 556 makes you very dead and wound channels are extremely similar with good ammo. But fuck grendel ammo is expensive. Would be considerably better off buyig 308 for that price.
From California but been in Iowa for 18 years now. Thanks for the great info, been watching for some time now and have gained an abundant amount of knowledge.
A couple of points from an old guy. The first 'big-bore' rifle I ever fired was back in '63 and it was Garand. The first service rifle I carried was a M-14. I was trained not to take the safety off until I was ready to shoot - and then it was flick the finger forward to take it off safe, then back to fire. Simple, fast and effective - no extraneous motions to work a thumb safety. As for a cross-bolt, lol. Ask the guys who've used an old style M-1 carbine about how many times they've dumped their mag intending to take off the safety. Admittedly not an issue on the Mini-14 (or later issue carbines for that matter). As for accuracy, a little bit of bedding compound around the action of my Mini-14 and it actually shoots better groups (about 1.2 MOA) than my HBAR AR-15.
Very capable firearm. Bill Ruger knew what he was doing. Thanks for the great video. Just reinforces what most everyone already knows. The MINI-14 is awesome, especially when you need it.
That's the great thing about a wood stock, you can always shorten the length of pull by cutting a little off the stock, then sanding, and refinishing it. I LOVE Mini 14's!!!
Real men, and I am one, use that Ruger Mini-14 and Ranch Rifle. 580 Series took care of the old design and accuracy problems. I'm not saying I have one or bought them for my many children, or that I don't have a match grade AR-15 variant but, one will still in the field long after the other is worn out.
Owned an Mini 14 180 series since 1974. Never had an issue with the safety or negligent discharge. Never did in the Army with the M21 either. Nothing wrong with it just different for the younger people.
I bought a Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Rifle back in '99, it was my Y2K "Assault Rifle". They were making them with thinner barrels back then. I changed out the wood stock for a Hogue Over molded synthetic stock so now it's a black rifle! I also put a 3X9 variably powered scope on it using the supplied scope rings. It may not be the most accurate, but it is utterly reliable with the M1 Garand type action. I never had a FTF, jam, stovepipe or misfire with it. Mine only shoots .223 Remington rounds which is what's printed on the receiver, not sure it could shoot 5.56. I'm very happy with it and would never sell it.
I have both an M1A and a Garand and I have never had any issues with using their safeties. Nor have I seen anyone else have any issues with this style of safety. This includes at Garand and High Power matches. To me it is a training issue and after over 25 years of shooting these guns I have never had an issue but I have a lot of practice turning them, off and on. Now I do have slim fingers for my size so that may help me in that. But generally I do not take off the safety unless I am already pointing at a target and am getting ready to shoot. Other times if I am not actively shooting the gun I tend to just clear the gun and lock the bolt back. Always like the Mini14. I wanted one so bad back in the early 80s but I never got around to getting one. Instead I saved up and bought my Garand. Nice video, take care.
I've had mini tactical for 5 yrs. Only problem was the damn thing flung cases about 40 feet. Like down people shirts at the range quite a ways away LOL. Got an accuracy systems adjustable gas block and took care of that. Had a trigger job done brought it down to around 5 pounds. Bought a barrel stabilizer because I thought it looked cool. Have a primary arms 1-6 with quick mount. Also scorpion red dot I use from time to time. But I still like the originals Peepsight best. Mine does best with 62-68 grain ammo but loves it all.
I just had someone complaining about brass rain the other day. My Mini somehow managed to bounce brass off of the lane wall, over it and onto the person a few stalls over.
I have owned 2, first one i bought back in 1978, had to sell due to money issues. Bought my second one, still own it, back in 1996. Have modified it, love it. Yes, i do have AR-15's also.
Absolutely no issues with my Mini 14. Mine is and older version, 196 serial number range. I shoot it at 200 yards snd in all day. No complaints with the accuracy. It gets the job done.
I bought mine brand new in 1981, when they were very hard to come by, and paid a lot for it. It has the old wood handguard. It languished in the back of my safe for many years because the gun really did deliver poor accuracy, ~6 MOA or worse. A couple of years ago I installed an Accu-strut barrel stiffener. It looks sorta cool, and it adds weight to the front of the rifle, which helps hold steadier offhand aim. I finally got a chance to try it earlier this week, and the Accu-strut performed as advertised. It brought the groups down to maybe 3-4 MOA with the open sights and my rheumy old eyes (no way to mount an optic on this old girl.) I like it now. It is plenty accurate enough for its intended purpose, and living in California, I've felt far less threatened by our insane firearm laws than I do about my ARs and AKs. I'm content with mine. Great video!
Ive owned a 580 series Mini-14 for 12yrs and right out of the box it was a 2-3" shooter. A couple of inexpensive mods later and I can shoot 1.5-2" groups at 100yrds all day long. I love my Mini-14 and its a rifle that I will never part with.
I love the mini-14. You are right the practical accuracy is good enough. I think that the mini-14 is perfect for what it was designed to be and it wasn't designed to be a match rifle. Thank you 👍
My 1987 model shoots sub 2 moa at a hundred with 75 or 69 grain bullets. Reminds me of how my m14 shot in service rifle before they changed to the matel toy AR
I always liked the mini-14 & M1 carbine. I found that with the safety when you get used to it i could disengage it with my finger from the side of the guard without putting my finger in the trigger guard but that’s just me. They have that regular rifle feel & like you said it doesn’t look scary! Thanks for making great content & making fun videos. Keep up the good work man
I replaced the rear sight with a Tech sight and haven't looked back. I love my Mini 14. Love the giant muzzle blast, love the fact it chucks brass 30', and really like the "cha-chunk" when releasing the bolt
Very cool. I'm a die-hard Ruger man, and fell in love with the Mini 14 back in college. It's great to hear your assessment of it. I'd roll into a crisis with a Mini 14 any day.
I've had a Mini for years. (Ranch style) Great coyote hunting gun. 10, 20 & 30 rd mags. I had to do a LE qualification about 10 yrs ago. For rifle, I just had to show proficiency. Just for fun they had me shoot at the SWAT gong roughly 200 yds away. Open sites and not a problem. If you have accuracy problems, its the shooter.
Mine is a 580 series, identical to the rifle in the video. I purchased it new in 2020, and haven't had any issues with it. I've owned several over the years, and the new models are definitely more accurate (2moa @ 100yds). I've had several AR-15s over the years, and the Mini is easier to maintain. I've never had an issue with the stock or the safety, but I've owned 5 M1 Garands and six M1As, so I'm very comfortable with it. It might be off putting for someone who only has experience with the AR.
Great video. I grew up shooting M1s and the Mini. While not as accurate as many ARs, they’re reliable and plenty accurate to do the job. And a hell of a lot of fun.
I love the Mini 14 and Mini 30! They're fantastic alternatives to the "scary looking" AR & AK "assualt rifles." They look and handle great, are small and lightweight, can be accessorized with an upper handguard swap (Amega, Ultimak and Hannibal) and have great build quality. Some complain that their expensive, but they're not, considering they're all available in stainless steel (ARs & AKs are not) and come standard with cold hammer forged barrels (a pricey option on the others when available). I'm also just a sucker for the Garand style action, it just feels right (robust). Long live the Ruger Mini!
This is probably one of the few 5.56 rifles I would like to get. Mostly personal preference, I really like how it looks and the way it feels. ARs are nice and have all the extra bells and whistles that can be added on, but I know I wouldn't use most of that, if any of it, so the lack of modularity on the Mini 14 is fine by me. I've also had a good experience with Ruger products in general so that is a plus.
My brother had one in his patrol car while on the PD in Wa. State 20 years ago, we would take it to the PD range several times at night and during the day, it was awesome. Sweet Rifle for the $$$ , for home defense and just at the range, fun weapon to shoot. I think it's pretty bad ass with a 30 Round clip. Never jammed once on us. We hit 6" targets 150 Ft dead on open sites. Works for me. I personally love it. Be safe all and happy shooting with your Mini -14 (-:
I like mime, no matter what anyone says. At the range. I clang the same targets the AR guys do, but....mine has NEVER jammed. AR guys hate the 14, maybe that's why. I really like the way it ejects brass, the king of ejection. I also like the safety , its right there.
I'm currently pretty much anchored by my properties to CA. I modified my stainless Mini-14 by removing the folding stock and pistol grip and turning off the flash suppressor part of the business end on my lathe - leaving only the front sight. With various "CA legal" mods, I get around (+/-)2 MOA using iron sights. Good enough for what I keep it for. I love the "old-school" feel of the mini - like my old M1 Carbine and lever action Winchesters. I learned to shoot in the Army using the M-16A1, and really like the familiarity of the AR platform - But I still prefer my Mini for my current uses. BTW - I like its Garand/M14 style safety.
The only problem with my Ranch rifle was I'd bought it off the used gun wall & didn't have a manual that explained the need to disassemble the bolt lock before reinserting the bolt during takedown & reassembly. 3 guys with 10 years combined of M14 experience in combat & match competition couldn't figure that out until I went to yt & found videos. It now wears a Houge stock with an Ultimak forward rail for optics mounting.
I like and appreciate your matter of fact quick evaluations. I also respect your opinion. You're right about the mini 14. As a Ruger fan the mini 14 is my next addition. AIRBORNE !!!
Had one since 1980 and wound up buying another in 2000's both very accurate and did put an accu strut on the later and will say it tighten it up enough to notice. Great gun to pass on to the kids...
"I dont see why 3-moa wouldnt be effective" Thaaank you! Exactly. Trying to drive nails at 600 yards is great fun when you're fuckin off but for any realistic usage 3-moa is more than adequate. Besides, even if it were more accurate how many users could realistically squeeze that max potential out of it anyway?
Not to mention just like an AR platform rifle, if you upgrade your Mini 14 barrel to something like 20, 22' or even 24' and go with a heavy match grade barrel you can get literally sub 1 moa at 100 yards. Just like any gun the Mini can be upgraded and made to perform better through those said upgrades.
The original M14 battle rifle was used briefly by the US military during the Vietnam war but the gun proved to be inaccurate and unwieldy in the heat and humidity of the region so the M16 was later adopted.
@@markfrank5937 I've heard that the inaccuracy complaints largely stem from barrel overheat, and that they thickened the barrel in recent years to address this. i would buy this firearm, but am on a limited budget. I've already bought a shotgun and Ruger PC 9mm carbine recently, wife will kill me if I splurge much more.
I have both the Mini-14 and the Mini-30-great rifles! Regarding the trigger/safety issue: The safety is on the left side of the trigger guard. You can both engage and disengage the safety without putting your finger in the trigger housing. Just gotta be careful.
I was gifted one and got out and shot it for the first time this weekend. Stainless ranch rifle with the Hogue stock. I shot 5 20 round mags of various bullets - only one FTE (cheap Silver Bear steel case). Other than that, I thought it was awesome. Plenty accurate (1-2 MOA) at 50 and 100 yards. Soft shooting, different recoil impulse than my DI ARs. Big thumbs up. Will put it (and 5 loaded mags with 62g Gold Dot) in my trunk for my vehicle gun. Civilian duty rifle with duty ammo. The only downside I see that is they have really gone up in price. :-0. I wouldn't pay $1,000 for a new one, especially when you can put together a pretty decent Palmetto AR for half that. But I would consider paying $500 for a used one.
Used one for decades and still love it! Very underappreciated rifle. ❤️ I don't like the butt pad on the new ranch rifles - it does add length and the rubber catches your clothing when shouldering. Old stocks used to have a steel or plastic strap inset into the wood, and it was perfect!
Amega makes an excellent scout rail that replaces the dust cover/ heat shield on the mini-14. It's an absolute game-changer as far as modularity. A couple other companies make attachments for side mounts as well.
I own a mini 14 and I love it. I have a Nikon rifle Scope on it and it shoots great. It came with a 5 round magazine but I bought 6 20 round magazines Ruger brand not after market magazines. I am thinking about buying me 6 30 round magazines also.
Hey Honest! I'm also a fan of both the M1 Carbine and the Garand. That Mini 14 is a nice little rifle that has that cool "throw back" factor going for it, especially with the wood stock. I'm totally with you on the safety placement. It could have been executed better, but overall it's a nice rifle along with Ruger's reliability and support. 😎👍🏻🇺🇸💥
I replaced the side plate with one that allows you to mount a scope or dot. I know this is an old video, but this is for anybody like me where this just showed up. My mini has been around for a few yrs and have feed a butt load of ammo through it without a hitch with the exception of the very rare stockpiling. Even when I did a momentary full auto. Wish we had these instead of those F'n colt issues!
I replaced my wood stock for OD green Hogue stock and ultimak rail with a red dot to co witness the iron sights. Great setup and as you said something different than my ar's.
I have a mini 14,ar15, AK-47 and a m1 and the mini is my go to every time I go to the range it's my wife's favorite gun period she likes the low recoil the easy sight picture and how uncomplicated it is to use. She told the first time she shoot it that I would leave before the gun did. Some people are AR people some like the old style wood and steel for me I like anything that goes bang
I got that exact model mini 14 on clearance at Walmart for 599.00. It had sat in the display case unsold for a year for 767.00. Have several ar15s and ak47s but I just enjoy the Garand type action and wood stock.
More than adequate, and for now is legal in my hell hole state without mutating it like a featureless AR, or grinding off the bayonet lug on an M1. carbine. Also will be legal if you travel . With 10 round mags legal everywhere, and those 20 rounders sure do look like 10 rounders.
Finally got one, took forever to find one with all this “BS” going on. Found a used 580’s series with a Vortex scope and extra magazines. Love it, now I want a Mini 30, for all my 308’s & 762.39’s, screw the AR’s, “Old School” rules, and looks a lot cooler 😎. FYI, I’m a real old school guy, prefer lever actions over semi-auto’s any day. But if a semi is it I’ll take old look (mini’s and 1911’s). God Bless Texas 👍🏼❤️🇺🇸🤠
This rifle is a lot of fun. Not a direct competitor to military AR platform, but it is old school cool. But go for the Mini-30, it will turn that target tree no problem. For this platform the increased power per shot is a much better choice and in .30 cal, that is in line with the original.
I have a 580 series stainless tactical. It shoots better than 3moa even with the cheap stuff if I bench shoot it. Only "mods" i've done is a Choate hand guard and Wilson Combat 1911 shock buffer to soften the bolt going back into the receiver. There's a great Mini 14/30 group on Facebook as well.
I always loved my Mini-30 in 7.62 x 39. The rifle, as you say, has perfectly acceptable real-world accuracy and it’s a lot of fun to shoot. Been thinking lately about picking up a Mini-14. 😉
The stainless ranch rifle in a black molded stock is an excellent choice. A rail will mount right up to the scope mount lugs. Tapco Gen2 30 round mags are reliable and affordable. I prefer mine over a full length or carbine AR15.
While I want an AR rifle, I’ve had my Mini-14 for decades. Rugged, reliable, and as accurate as the user is. I have no issue using it as a self-defense or backup firearm.
The safety is like the M14 that the military used ... I like it. I own a Mini-14 Tactical and really am impressed with these rifles. Damn good to be honest ...
California resident here and just bought the Ruger Mini 14 Ranch, 10rnd, 20rnd and 30rnd mags, Weaver scope 2.5x7x32 and 5000rnds of 223. Our local range lets us shoot anything we want.
Awesome video! I'm a big fan of the M1 and its action, I've always wanted a Mini-14 and living in NYS it's one of the few rifles we can still buy that hasn't been heavily modified. Keep up the great work!
Great review of a cool gun, man! Personally I think the safety is actually pretty cool…you don’t have to remove your finger from the trigger guard to switch it off…you can knock it forward and pull back on the trigger quickly. And to switch it on, you don’t need to put your finger anywhere near the trigger. That said I could see it being an issue with gloves on. And, you know, everybody has their own preferences. Cheers!
I understand some of the very early ones after firing a few shots would start shooting all over the place. The newer ones claim to be more accurate after heating up. I view every gun as a possible combat weapon. Therefore nothing ruger makes passes muster with me. I enjoy your videos. Thank You
Astonishing how many people have never been in actual combat yet still expect the weapon to have Hollywood ability and never (regularly) shoot. You did very well. Do that with (paintballs) coming at you. (That’s kinda real at least) Good video, Good work! RESPECT! Looking forward to the next one.
such an underrated firearm in todays market .
I know right but the only real problem with it is you can't really get a brand new one for under $800 I've seen them go for rare occasions 699 but it's always a synthetic stock version, I want one that has the wooden stock and they're always $799, last two AR-15s I've built where about $380 bucks total cost each.
All ruger products are TRASH
@JKay11235 yes they are. Overpriced american made TRASH. Even Taurus makes better firearms then junk ruger
@@abcdaw22 Bro what? Overpriced? The Ruger Security 9 is an excellent pistol and is under 300 dollars. Give me a single example of a Ruger firearm that is overpriced garbage.
@@cameronnorton5898 10/22, LCP, LC9, SR9, SR22, Security 9, and Ruger American. All low quality overpriced JUNK
I still have my Mini 14 from 78. Still shoots like a dream even after all these years and thousands and thousands of rounds. Love it ! It is my go to rifle from pest control and plinking to home defense.
I purchased my first Mini14 ranch rifle in 1985. I still have it and have put thousands of rounds through it . It has been reliable and lots of fun. I decided to purchase a new model a couple of years ago and give my original to my son. I have an AR as well but there is something about a Mini that keeps me coming back. Thanks for the video!
My dad bought his in the early 90s. By the late 90s at 18 I bought my first (ban era) Colt HBAR. back then I thought my plastic, black, tacticool was so much cooler than my dads fudd wood mini 14. Now hes gone and I own that fudd mini. He was right it was always cooler.
I've owned one for ten years now and it's my favorite, even over the AR. It'll also make a great club if the need arises.
Good taste
With cigar in mouth in the 80s..."I love it when a plan come together".
Immediately started humming the theme song !
Never forget it is the weapon of the A-Team!
All ruger products are TRASH
@@abcdaw22 WHat about the blackhawk, the super redhawk, security six, etc? Jk I know ur a troll now go fuck yourself
@@claireelliot6846 police service six?
@@brooksh.3775 Naw Ruger Security Six
@@claireelliot6846 I had the police service six. 4in barrel blued.
Despite my trying to talk him out of it, my brother-in-law bought the Mini 14 Tactical over an AR-15. I have to say that I like the thing. Inside of 200 yards there really is no downside. And let’s be honest, 5.56x45mm is a 200 yards round if you wanna consistently drop something the size of a human or a whitetail (I can already hear the keys clicking to rebut this well established assertion). Thanks for the video!
I've heard many stories from the Marines I work with. Sometimes it drops a gihadi dead in his tracks at long range distances over 300 meters. They also have shot or seen them be shot over 15 times with 50 yards and still keep running. They suspected they were on some type of drug because normally a person isn't going to take 15 shots or more from a 556 and keep going.
ehhh run those 75gr or 77gr BTHP or TMK pills and youll still have 500+ftlbs of energy at 300 yrds in a 16" barrel. Theyre expensive but great.
It also explains Richards comment. most soldiers shooting under 200m are using 62gr or 55gr ammo and its not as effective. The guys landing hits are typically using Mk12's if theyre connecting at 3-400yrds with the heavier BTHP or SMk. Kris Kyle rarely used 556 but when he did it was a Black hills 77gr. He recomended 556 if using 64gr or heavier loadings.
Richard
You go little further than that with the 77 grain
I hear you. Don’t shoot me with anything but if I’m relying on something to save my bacon it’s gonna have more punch than 5.56. My AR is in 6.5G. 6.5G in an AR is superior to 5.56 in every regard except a small decrease in magazine capacity.
@@Richard-wz9uh its better ballistically but marginally. 556 makes you very dead and wound channels are extremely similar with good ammo. But fuck grendel ammo is expensive. Would be considerably better off buyig 308 for that price.
Bought my mini-30 in 1989. Countless thousands of rounds through it. It's been extremely reliable and exceptionally fun to shoot.
From California but been in Iowa for 18 years now. Thanks for the great info, been watching for some time now and have gained an abundant amount of knowledge.
A couple of points from an old guy. The first 'big-bore' rifle I ever fired was back in '63 and it was Garand. The first service rifle I carried was a M-14. I was trained not to take the safety off until I was ready to shoot - and then it was flick the finger forward to take it off safe, then back to fire. Simple, fast and effective - no extraneous motions to work a thumb safety. As for a cross-bolt, lol. Ask the guys who've used an old style M-1 carbine about how many times they've dumped their mag intending to take off the safety. Admittedly not an issue on the Mini-14 (or later issue carbines for that matter). As for accuracy, a little bit of bedding compound around the action of my Mini-14 and it actually shoots better groups (about 1.2 MOA) than my HBAR AR-15.
Very capable firearm. Bill Ruger knew what he was doing. Thanks for the great video. Just reinforces what most everyone already knows. The MINI-14 is awesome, especially when you need it.
That's the great thing about a wood stock, you can always shorten the length of pull by cutting a little off the stock, then sanding, and refinishing it. I LOVE Mini 14's!!!
Real men, and I am one, use that Ruger Mini-14 and Ranch Rifle. 580 Series took care of the old design and accuracy problems. I'm not saying I have one or bought them for my many children, or that I don't have a match grade AR-15 variant but, one will still in the field long after the other is worn out.
Owned an Mini 14 180 series since 1974. Never had an issue with the safety or negligent discharge. Never did in the Army with the M21 either. Nothing wrong with it just different for the younger people.
Absolutely love my Mini-14, More than accurate enough. And never jams or miss-feeds.
I've had my mini 14 and mini 30 both 20 plus years. Never had a problem. Love em!!!! Toss on a red dot and go!!!!!( I red dot almost all semi auto)
One of the best. If not the best review channels when it comes to pew pew. Honest non biased and real. You hick and iraqvet888 are the best.
My first rifle and 10 yard later it is still in service. Best back up rifle hands down.
Bro what????
I bought a Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Rifle back in '99, it was my Y2K "Assault Rifle". They were making them with thinner barrels back then. I changed out the wood stock for a Hogue Over molded synthetic stock so now it's a black rifle! I also put a 3X9 variably powered scope on it using the supplied scope rings. It may not be the most accurate, but it is utterly reliable with the M1 Garand type action. I never had a FTF, jam, stovepipe or misfire with it. Mine only shoots .223 Remington rounds which is what's printed on the receiver, not sure it could shoot 5.56. I'm very happy with it and would never sell it.
I have both an M1A and a Garand and I have never had any issues with using their safeties. Nor have I seen anyone else have any issues with this style of safety. This includes at Garand and High Power matches. To me it is a training issue and after over 25 years of shooting these guns I have never had an issue but I have a lot of practice turning them, off and on. Now I do have slim fingers for my size so that may help me in that. But generally I do not take off the safety unless I am already pointing at a target and am getting ready to shoot. Other times if I am not actively shooting the gun I tend to just clear the gun and lock the bolt back.
Always like the Mini14. I wanted one so bad back in the early 80s but I never got around to getting one. Instead I saved up and bought my Garand.
Nice video, take care.
I've had mini tactical for 5 yrs. Only problem was the damn thing flung cases about 40 feet. Like down people shirts at the range quite a ways away LOL. Got an accuracy systems adjustable gas block and took care of that. Had a trigger job done brought it down to around 5 pounds. Bought a barrel stabilizer because I thought it looked cool. Have a primary arms 1-6 with quick mount. Also scorpion red dot I use from time to time. But I still like the originals Peepsight best. Mine does best with 62-68 grain ammo but loves it all.
The brass enters low earth orbit for sure.
Any issues with magazine fitment or quality?
I just had someone complaining about brass rain the other day. My Mini somehow managed to bounce brass off of the lane wall, over it and onto the person a few stalls over.
Yeah, when I go to the range I try to get to far right lane.
I have owned 2, first one i bought back in 1978, had to sell due to money issues. Bought my second one, still own it, back in 1996. Have modified it, love it. Yes, i do have AR-15's also.
Absolutely no issues with my Mini 14. Mine is and older version, 196 serial number range. I shoot it at 200 yards snd in all day. No complaints with the accuracy. It gets the job done.
Love it. And yes we kalifornians can have it.
But can you have the fun mags?
psychobeam99 nooooop
Jesse James *commiefornians
just wait it will get banned soon enough. #enjoythedecline
Jesse James Really?
I bought mine brand new in 1981, when they were very hard to come by, and paid a lot for it. It has the old wood handguard. It languished in the back of my safe for many years because the gun really did deliver poor accuracy, ~6 MOA or worse. A couple of years ago I installed an Accu-strut barrel stiffener. It looks sorta cool, and it adds weight to the front of the rifle, which helps hold steadier offhand aim. I finally got a chance to try it earlier this week, and the Accu-strut performed as advertised. It brought the groups down to maybe 3-4 MOA with the open sights and my rheumy old eyes (no way to mount an optic on this old girl.) I like it now. It is plenty accurate enough for its intended purpose, and living in California, I've felt far less threatened by our insane firearm laws than I do about my ARs and AKs. I'm content with mine. Great video!
In 05 they changed the barel and more accurate and no need for accustrut
What grain ammo were you using?
Ive owned a 580 series Mini-14 for 12yrs and right out of the box it was a 2-3" shooter. A couple of inexpensive mods later and I can shoot 1.5-2" groups at 100yrds all day long. I love my Mini-14 and its a rifle that I will never part with.
I love the mini-14. You are right the practical accuracy is good enough. I think that the mini-14 is perfect for what it was designed to be and it wasn't designed to be a match rifle. Thank you 👍
My 1987 model shoots sub 2 moa at a hundred with 75 or 69 grain bullets. Reminds me of how my m14 shot in service rifle before they changed to the matel toy AR
Okay I’m convinced. Mini 14 is on Black Friday sale and I’m going shopping! 🇺🇸
I always liked the mini-14 & M1 carbine. I found that with the safety when you get used to it i could disengage it with my finger from the side of the guard without putting my finger in the trigger guard but that’s just me. They have that regular rifle feel & like you said it doesn’t look scary! Thanks for making great content & making fun videos. Keep up the good work man
I replaced the rear sight with a Tech sight and haven't looked back. I love my Mini 14. Love the giant muzzle blast, love the fact it chucks brass 30', and really like the "cha-chunk" when releasing the bolt
Longevity is A+. My Mini that I bought in 1982 is still running just fine.
I got mine and it came brand new with the ATI stock so I have an adjustable stock and rails to add some attachments if needed. I love it so much.
Very cool. I'm a die-hard Ruger man, and fell in love with the Mini 14 back in college. It's great to hear your assessment of it. I'd roll into a crisis with a Mini 14 any day.
I've had a Mini for years. (Ranch style) Great coyote hunting gun. 10, 20 & 30 rd mags. I had to do a LE qualification about 10 yrs ago. For rifle, I just had to show proficiency. Just for fun they had me shoot at the SWAT gong roughly 200 yds away. Open sites and not a problem. If you have accuracy problems, its the shooter.
Mine is a 580 series, identical to the rifle in the video. I purchased it new in 2020, and haven't had any issues with it. I've owned several over the years, and the new models are definitely more accurate (2moa @ 100yds). I've had several AR-15s over the years, and the Mini is easier to maintain. I've never had an issue with the stock or the safety, but I've owned 5 M1 Garands and six M1As, so I'm very comfortable with it. It might be off putting for someone who only has experience with the AR.
Great video. I grew up shooting M1s and the Mini. While not as accurate as many ARs, they’re reliable and plenty accurate to do the job. And a hell of a lot of fun.
I just got one last week.. hardwood stock.. matted. stainless steel I love it!!!!😎👍👍
I love the Mini 14 and Mini 30! They're fantastic alternatives to the "scary looking" AR & AK "assualt rifles." They look and handle great, are small and lightweight, can be accessorized with an upper handguard swap (Amega, Ultimak and Hannibal) and have great build quality. Some complain that their expensive, but they're not, considering they're all available in stainless steel (ARs & AKs are not) and come standard with cold hammer forged barrels (a pricey option on the others when available). I'm also just a sucker for the Garand style action, it just feels right (robust). Long live the Ruger Mini!
I've got the Mini 30. I love it! People holler about light primer strikes, but I've never had it happen personally, even with Wolf and Tula ammo.
The Mini-14 is my absolute favorite rifle in my collection. 😁
This is probably one of the few 5.56 rifles I would like to get. Mostly personal preference, I really like how it looks and the way it feels. ARs are nice and have all the extra bells and whistles that can be added on, but I know I wouldn't use most of that, if any of it, so the lack of modularity on the Mini 14 is fine by me. I've also had a good experience with Ruger products in general so that is a plus.
As an owner of a Mini 14 and M14, I love the trigger safety!
I find them rather easy to operate. I practiced switching it off and on and now it seems to be smoother as well.
My brother had one in his patrol car while on the PD in Wa. State 20 years ago, we would take it to the PD range several times at night and during the day, it was awesome. Sweet Rifle for the $$$ , for home defense and just at the range, fun weapon to shoot. I think it's pretty bad ass with a 30 Round clip. Never jammed once on us. We hit 6" targets 150 Ft dead on open sites. Works for me. I personally love it. Be safe all and happy shooting with your Mini -14 (-:
I like mime, no matter what anyone says. At the range. I clang the same targets the AR guys do, but....mine has NEVER jammed. AR guys hate the 14, maybe that's why. I really like the way it ejects brass, the king of ejection. I also like the safety , its right there.
I'm currently pretty much anchored by my properties to CA. I modified my stainless Mini-14 by removing the folding stock and pistol grip and turning off the flash suppressor part of the business end on my lathe - leaving only the front sight. With various "CA legal" mods, I get around (+/-)2 MOA using iron sights. Good enough for what I keep it for. I love the "old-school" feel of the mini - like my old M1 Carbine and lever action Winchesters. I learned to shoot in the Army using the M-16A1, and really like the familiarity of the AR platform - But I still prefer my Mini for my current uses. BTW - I like its Garand/M14 style safety.
The only problem with my Ranch rifle was I'd bought it off the used gun wall & didn't have a manual that explained the need to disassemble the bolt lock before reinserting the bolt during takedown & reassembly.
3 guys with 10 years combined of M14 experience in combat & match competition couldn't figure that out until I went to yt & found videos.
It now wears a Houge stock with an Ultimak forward rail for optics mounting.
I like and appreciate your matter of fact quick evaluations. I also respect your opinion. You're right about the mini 14. As a Ruger fan the mini 14 is my next addition. AIRBORNE !!!
Had one since 1980 and wound up buying another in 2000's both very accurate and did
put an accu strut on the later and will say it tighten it up enough to notice. Great gun
to pass on to the kids...
"I dont see why 3-moa wouldnt be effective"
Thaaank you! Exactly.
Trying to drive nails at 600 yards is great fun when you're fuckin off but for any realistic usage 3-moa is more than adequate. Besides, even if it were more accurate how many users could realistically squeeze that max potential out of it anyway?
Not to mention just like an AR platform rifle, if you upgrade your Mini 14 barrel to something like 20, 22' or even 24' and go with a heavy match grade barrel you can get literally sub 1 moa at 100 yards. Just like any gun the Mini can be upgraded and made to perform better through those said upgrades.
I have this fantasy where we adopted the Mini-14 instead of the M-16 and the Garand action was used basically forever.
Bill River wasn't happy with the original gas system in prototype Mini 14s & didn't submit a sample until the decision to adopt the AR15 as the M16.
Hogg and Weeks said it was designed as a military rifle for countries with small military budgets.
The original M14 battle rifle was used briefly by the US military during the Vietnam war but the gun proved to be inaccurate and unwieldy in the heat and humidity of the region so the M16 was later adopted.
@@avalynpoe4441 yeah, wish they would've made changes earlier, like swapping out the barrel.
@@markfrank5937 I've heard that the inaccuracy complaints largely stem from barrel overheat, and that they thickened the barrel in recent years to address this. i would buy this firearm, but am on a limited budget. I've already bought a shotgun and Ruger PC 9mm carbine recently, wife will kill me if I splurge much more.
I have both the Mini-14 and the Mini-30-great rifles! Regarding the trigger/safety issue: The safety is on the left side of the trigger guard. You can both engage and disengage the safety without putting your finger in the trigger housing. Just gotta be careful.
I was gifted one and got out and shot it for the first time this weekend. Stainless ranch rifle with the Hogue stock. I shot 5 20 round mags of various bullets - only one FTE (cheap Silver Bear steel case). Other than that, I thought it was awesome. Plenty accurate (1-2 MOA) at 50 and 100 yards. Soft shooting, different recoil impulse than my DI ARs. Big thumbs up. Will put it (and 5 loaded mags with 62g Gold Dot) in my trunk for my vehicle gun. Civilian duty rifle with duty ammo. The only downside I see that is they have really gone up in price. :-0. I wouldn't pay $1,000 for a new one, especially when you can put together a pretty decent Palmetto AR for half that. But I would consider paying $500 for a used one.
The sound of you pinging those plates is music to my ears!😎
Been a fan of these since The A-Team made them popular! Thanks for sharing Honest 👍🏽
That safety went through Ww 2 Korea and Nam it is a great safety and works great
Used one for decades and still love it! Very underappreciated rifle. ❤️ I don't like the butt pad on the new ranch rifles - it does add length and the rubber catches your clothing when shouldering. Old stocks used to have a steel or plastic strap inset into the wood, and it was perfect!
Extreme reliability and the design of the stock makes it more effective in close quarters hand combat than an AR-15 for an M16 or an m4 !!!
Amega makes an excellent scout rail that replaces the dust cover/ heat shield on the mini-14. It's an absolute game-changer as far as modularity. A couple other companies make attachments for side mounts as well.
I have an older one, like 181 series. Heavier ammo like 62gr seems to tighten the groups up pretty good.
Little known fact that ammo choice does improve the accuracy in the mini 14. Thanks for mentioning it.
Great looking rifle, I have have the tactical model with the 16 inch barrel, flash hider but i also have the wood stock on it, i love that thing....
Love the mini 14! One of my favorite rifles I grew up with!
I own a mini 14 and I love it. I have a Nikon rifle Scope on it and it shoots great. It came with a 5 round magazine but I bought 6 20 round magazines Ruger brand not after market magazines. I am thinking about buying me 6 30 round magazines also.
Hey Honest! I'm also a fan of both the M1 Carbine and the Garand. That Mini 14 is a nice little rifle that has that cool "throw back" factor going for it, especially with the wood stock. I'm totally with you on the safety placement. It could have been executed better, but overall it's a nice rifle along with Ruger's reliability and support.
😎👍🏻🇺🇸💥
But you miss the point, it's a scaled down version of the M14 which has the safety there. I like it there.
@John Petty You're correct! It's a personal choice. Kudos to Ruger for keeping it true to form, I guess. 👍🏻
To take it off safe, you can use your thumb and push out. Less chance of accidental discharge.
Thanks for the great video man. Super helpful. Really appreciated that safety bit too ~ Enjoy your beautiful state you lucky bastard!
I love the mini, especially the 583 series.
My brother has been using this for coyote for 20 years now and talked me into getting one. I love it.
I replaced the side plate with one that allows you to mount a scope or dot. I know this is an old video, but this is for anybody like me where this just showed up. My mini has been around for a few yrs and have feed a butt load of ammo through it without a hitch with the exception of the very rare stockpiling. Even when I did a momentary full auto. Wish we had these instead of those F'n colt issues!
I replaced my wood stock for OD green Hogue stock and ultimak rail with a red dot to co witness the iron sights. Great setup and as you said something different than my ar's.
I have a mini 14,ar15, AK-47 and a m1 and the mini is my go to every time I go to the range it's my wife's favorite gun period she likes the low recoil the easy sight picture and how uncomplicated it is to use. She told the first time she shoot it that I would leave before the gun did. Some people are AR people some like the old style wood and steel for me I like anything that goes bang
I got that exact model mini 14 on clearance at Walmart for 599.00. It had sat in the display case unsold for a year for 767.00. Have several ar15s and ak47s but I just enjoy the Garand type action and wood stock.
Love my Mini-14. Great review. I also replaced my stock with a OD green Hogue stock, which gives more grip and comfort to shooting it.
More than adequate, and for now is legal in my hell hole state without mutating it like a featureless AR, or grinding off the bayonet lug on an M1. carbine. Also will be legal if you travel . With 10 round mags legal everywhere, and those 20 rounders sure do look like 10 rounders.
The mighty mini is the ruler! Ruger don't make junk.very good weapon.👍
Finally got one, took forever to find one with all this “BS” going on. Found a used 580’s series with a Vortex scope and extra magazines. Love it, now I want a Mini 30, for all my 308’s & 762.39’s, screw the AR’s, “Old School” rules, and looks a lot cooler 😎. FYI, I’m a real old school guy, prefer lever actions over semi-auto’s any day. But if a semi is it I’ll take old look (mini’s and 1911’s). God Bless Texas 👍🏼❤️🇺🇸🤠
This rifle is a lot of fun. Not a direct competitor to military AR platform, but it is old school cool. But go for the Mini-30, it will turn that target tree no problem. For this platform the increased power per shot is a much better choice and in .30 cal, that is in line with the original.
I love my mini 14. I will part with my AR before I do the mini. On a side note they have gone way up in price lately though
I have a 580 series stainless tactical. It shoots better than 3moa even with the cheap stuff if I bench shoot it. Only "mods" i've done is a Choate hand guard and Wilson Combat 1911 shock buffer to soften the bolt going back into the receiver. There's a great Mini 14/30 group on Facebook as well.
I really envy you guys that can just walk out in your backyard and shoot! That's pretty cool!
I always loved my Mini-30 in 7.62 x 39. The rifle, as you say, has perfectly acceptable real-world accuracy and it’s a lot of fun to shoot. Been thinking lately about picking up a Mini-14. 😉
The stainless ranch rifle in a black molded stock is an excellent choice. A rail will mount right up to the scope mount lugs. Tapco Gen2 30 round mags are reliable and affordable. I prefer mine over a full length or carbine AR15.
I love all 4 of mine, one being the new mini 30 !
Love your videos. Very honest indeed, and you talk like a real adult. I don't trust anyone who dosent occasionally cuss! Keep them coming bro!
I have had a Mini 14 since the 1980's. I like it better than the AR. Never jams, if you put the rail on it you can mount a dot or scope.
Almost sounds like your playing jingle bells with the mini 14. Lol 😂 love this rifle.
An attraction for me for this is how much easier it is to clean and field strip than an AR.
While I want an AR rifle, I’ve had my Mini-14 for decades. Rugged, reliable, and as accurate as the user is. I have no issue using it as a self-defense or backup firearm.
The good old ranch rifle, solid in my book.
The safety is like the M14 that the military used ... I like it. I own a Mini-14 Tactical and really am impressed with these rifles. Damn good to be honest ...
California resident here and just bought the Ruger Mini 14 Ranch, 10rnd, 20rnd and 30rnd mags, Weaver scope 2.5x7x32 and 5000rnds of 223. Our local range lets us shoot anything we want.
Was the gun pretty affordable? I'm looking to pick one up as my first riffle.
@@robertlewis4244 809.00 was the sticker price new at US Patriot Armory gun shop. They were cheaper than Big 5 one week sale price.
Awesome video! I'm a big fan of the M1 and its action, I've always wanted a Mini-14 and living in NYS it's one of the few rifles we can still buy that hasn't been heavily modified. Keep up the great work!
As an owner myself it’s always refreshing to see an updated mini 14 video. And a very good one I may say.
Great review of a cool gun, man! Personally I think the safety is actually pretty cool…you don’t have to remove your finger from the trigger guard to switch it off…you can knock it forward and pull back on the trigger quickly. And to switch it on, you don’t need to put your finger anywhere near the trigger. That said I could see it being an issue with gloves on. And, you know, everybody has their own preferences. Cheers!
I bought a Mini because my favorite rifle that I shoot a lot is the M1A and the Mini has the same battery of arms, so there is a lot of familiarity.
The safety is almost hard to disengage. Practice. Practice. Practice. Know your weapon. Great video.
I understand some of the very early ones after firing a few shots would start shooting all over the place. The newer ones claim to be more accurate after heating up. I view every gun as a possible combat weapon. Therefore nothing ruger makes passes muster with me. I enjoy your videos. Thank You
The safety and mag release are AMBI. That's a PLUS in my book.
Astonishing how many people have never been in actual combat yet still expect the weapon to have Hollywood ability and never (regularly) shoot. You did very well. Do that with (paintballs) coming at you. (That’s kinda real at least) Good video, Good work! RESPECT! Looking forward to the next one.
Good video I want one I like it I don't see a problem with the mini14 for anything
Thanks. Really helpful.
The solution to your objection to the trigger mounted safety is to moves to south Carolina. No gloves required.