I've been shooting the mini 14 for 26 years now, it's our primary rifle with the dept. of corrections in Cali. This thing is a beast, I've seen first hand what this can do to someone's femur, nothing like hearing that slide rack.
Hi Nutnfancy, thank you so much for taking the time to do these videos. I tremendously appreciate the labour involved and I think I speak for a sizeable group of viewers, especially regular viewers. While the videos *are* long, they are your style, your brand, and those looking for more concise reviews are invited to look elsewhere. Peace and much respect!
I have to disagree with Morro BayCoast on his comment that the M14 was inferior and that was why the M16 replaced it. Here are the facts: Senator Dirkson exposed that the M16 community included a number of Congress who had vested interest in that firearm. The M14 was nearly flawless. I qualified Expert in both as a Vietnam grunt. The M16 jammed over and over again. The MIL SPEC version required MIL SPEC parts and they were expensive. Dirkson ran a test using FBI facilities to find commerial parts worked just fine at a box of them for under a dollar. The similiar part for MIL SPEC was around $100 each. Sorry Morro BayCoast, the fall for the M14 was greed not less capability. I am looking to purchase a 5.56 now and am thinking about the Mini 14 but do not know about its ability to have bipod, silencer, and mounted scopes.
best upgrades for the older mini's 1. get the longest accustrut or same type device you can get. The pencil barrels flex a lot! 2. A gg&g side scope mount. this thing blows all else out of the water. rock solid and we'll designed, check it out. I've got a Nikon prostaff 3x9 on top. Also it clears your irons so you've got great backups 3. Get yourself a ventilated handguard that's light and cheap. the more exposed barreled the better. you don't grab the barrel anyways. 4. John Masen muzzle brake with integrated front sight. Any new brake/sight is better than the blade sight. 5. If you are taller or have a long length of pull they sell molded recoil pads off Amazon cheap that work really well, especially the curvature for quick roll into shoulder. 6. Side note, if you buy a used one with a shit stock that's banged up, get the dings out with water, a towel and soldering iron. Then give it a stain and spar varnish like for boats makes it water proof and slightly textured pus scratch proof. 7. tighten all the stock screws and make the bedding tighter. All this plus handloading has made my mini that shot 2-3 moa to .5-1 mos all day long. I own a custom 223 wylde Ar and still like the mini more
I am Army, shot expert all the years I was in. We never did run and guns, I think all the services should. When SHTF I never met anyone who just kept in one place to fight. Training is everything, we should teach our service members better. Great video, btw guys thank you for your service.
My Son just got a job at Wal-mart, so I bought him a Mini-30 for his birthday. We're taking Connor's Mini-30 and my XCR out today. He'll be hunting deer as well as targets. Of course you are aware that holding a rifle sideways will shoot a bullet to the right of poa. Great review Nutn, I'll send it to my Son.
@jlunit416 The running joke among some of us TNPers is that the TV series Stargate SG1 is actually based on Nutnfancy & declassified reports of missions he ran offworld. & yes, Colonel Jack O'Neil is based on Nutnfancy...
"Mini-14 against the World" great title. I'm guessing you hold some sentimental feelings with that carbine from your poor college days. I like the mini-14 maybe because it's something different from all the AR's & AK's. Awesome vids as always & what a gorgeous day for the Sledgehammer!
+1 I finally got to shoot my Mini30 on Easter Sunday. I like Nutnfancy's run-and-shoot routines. Folks give him lots of crap, but he knows it's not the same as real combat. It's closer to the real thing than any of us do regularly at the range. I wish people would get off his ass about the details and appreciate what he's up to.
@UberR3D; i was going to mention that, glad you brought it up. I'm amazed that the mics pick it up, too. Makes you wonder if all Garand action rifles make that same clang.
Nutnfancy, have you ever tried a reduced gas bushing kit in the Mini? The stock bushing is WAY oversized, overgassing the gun. Makes it nice and reliable, but beats up scopes and doesn't help accuracy. Accuracy Systems sells a set of three bushings with different size holes. With these you can make the Mini just as reliable and more accurate. It would be very interesting to see you do a review on this inexpensive ($14) upgrade to the Mini.
@thors200; Thanx! I just wanted to know before I tossed in my 2 cents. I cannot speak to the combat durablilty of the Mini 14. From my experience, as a civilian, the Mini does not require much maintenance in the field, easy enough to strip down, and is forgiving of dirt. It has a much simpler action than the ARs & additionally much simpler to maintain. It's rotating bolt is a simple design, with no locking lugs on it. Simple means less chance of breakages
@clayton1clayton1: in addition to what everyone else has said, the one thing I like about Mini 14s is that they are relatively simple to break down & easy to access the parts that get dirty from shooting. It makes cleaning less of a hassle. That's especially important if you're going to be using ammo like Wolf.
THANK YOU! There's something to be said for reliability. =) I've owned 180's and now 581's. 580's 81's are much improved. I think the heavier barrel has solved the barrel flex (whip) issues of the horrible thin barrels of the past.
In response to blacktalonkevlar. There is always a place for optics on a combat weapon, and being a rifleman is one of the most basic and integrated part of being a soldier. However, if no optics are available, then yes, one needs to master the iron sights that the weapon came with. Versatility is key, when you have your enemies shooting back at you as well, and thats what keeps you alive and fighting. (USN SPECOPS)
@swampthangification More specifically, the Accu-Strut will add 8.5 ounces of steel to your barrel. That will change the balance and make the gun slower into action. Maybe for playing around from the bench it's a good choice.
@nutnfancy Thanks Veri. It honestly boggles my mind at times where Nutn finds the time to do table tops and run-n-guns let alone PRODUCTION TIME for his vids and STILL have a life outside of all this. Thanks again and keep up the great work!
"and as usual we throw in a little pistol shooting for fun, and *shot timer beeps* ooouuhh! he takes me by surprise!" good funny candid stuff there, that's what youtube is ultimately all about, the good stuff that survives editing! Love the review, and wanted to thank you so much for "putting it out there" for all of us, espically for guys like me trying to decide between the very three types of carbine you're showcasing! Awesome, thanks again TNP.
Another great vid nutnfancy. I would be interested to see the rifles compared with the factory irons. True that it would be harder to shoot at thoes farther distances, but, for people like me who just want to shoot with the factory iron... That was one of two big selling points for me when I bought my mini 14; how fast can I turn the safety off after I realize it was left it on, and distance between F & R sight and line of sight to center of bore. Or do thoes things not make much difference?
People in general all too often confuse the practicality of "match grade", "hunting", and "combat accuracy". With the first two, no one is shooting back at you. And unless your shooting from ranges that are far beyond typical engagement ranges your certainly not going to take your time to get your shots off while exposed. For the third, 2 to 3 MOA is more than adequate to get the job done under combat conditions. As for "testicle" (tacti-cool) gizmos, they're great for LE goon squads doing their "turkey shoot" raids, and even for military personnel doing sweep and clear and CQB IN THE SHORT TERM. But for extended time in the field, all those extra protrusions are just more cumbersome shit that can break, or get snagged on brush, and bang against your body during a long run or hump. Any old timer that carried a Tommy gun during WWII may tell you that. If all you had was a stock Mini 14 with a good supply of mags, you could be doing a whole lot worse.
I find the mini-14 nay sayers to be full of wind. My 181 series with a basic 3x9 would do 1MOA (or less) all day long, generally I could do it hole upon hole, this was at 130 yards. I love the stock, being able to walk with it at my side and not worry about the barrel dragging dirt...love your videos btw! I must say, I was a better shooter in previous years, now I'm happy to see the target and hit the target.....dang bifocals.....
@nutnfancy Thanks Veri and that is correct. I've been trying to upload Part 2 of Mini-14 Against the World all day and it's another TH-cam nightmare...doing a third attempt now!
Thanks for the videos nutnfancy.......I have a question on the Mini14 Series and Accuracy between the improvements done in the early 580 series to the later 580 to 581 series which the only difference I believe is the increased diameter of the barrel. There was a major upgrade to the Mini14 in approx. 2005 with the 580 Series Serial Numbers. The changes were to improve the tolerances and the manufacturing process to increase the accuracy issue complaints. Along with the 2005 changes in the 580 Series Rifles the butt stock was changed and the softer pad type. The modified gas system Improved the vibration reactions and the iron sights changed to the current. Then late 2007 to 2008 in the 580 Series to the 581 Series Ruger also increased the barrel diameter with the noticeable barrel taper. Can you show your target accuracy of the earlier 580 thinner barrel compared to the later thicker barrel 580-581 Series? Is there a difference between these two later dated model changes.
Good review, NF. I purchased a Mini Tactical last year and have been very happy with it. Generally it serves as my centerfire range toy and WORL weapon. I have it equipped with a Burris XTS red dot, 4" picatinney rails and an Ultimak Scout rail. With a mild trigger job and Glasbed stock I have pulled a best of just under 2 moa with PMC Bronze 55gr.
I love my mini, sold it and regret it..prob going to pick up another some time soon...only thing i hate about the mini's is the force at which the brass is expelled..other than that, classic weapon.
I'm sure enjoying all 3 of these type rifles I own; Mini-14, AR-10/15's, and M-1A. Nutn, I put a 2-7X33 scope on my Mini like yours but chose the VX2 Leupold. Love it on the Mini!!
Great Video. Made me finally take the leap on a new Mini-14. Been putting one off because of the reports of 3+ MOA guns. If these newer ones really can get sub 3 MOA I'll take it.
Per the reference to the lack of rails. I have mounted a set of Leapers G36 aluminum rails on the sides of my factory stock and it works great. I have also developed my own magazine release to make changes ALMOST as fast as an AR. getting them in is still a trick, but the release is super fast.
My agency has stainless in our patrol cars. We only fire them one time a year and they have been running like that for at least 20 years. This year we began seeing trigger groups falling out during firing along with other mechanical problems. As for tactical accuracy is totally fine though. They are bare with no lights or optics but still a good rifle.
Damn this looks so fun, i'd love to participate in something like this. love the videos, i've gotten 3 guns in big part to your in depth reviews. Keep it up.
I do need to mention, as a multiple Mini owner, my rifles enjoy heavier rounds...70gr area. Mine have pretty good accuracy results with most ammo over 62 grain ammo. I suggest experimenting. You can use 5.56 milspec ammo as well. Very reliable rifles, very rugged. I also use AK-74 style brake/hider on mine...freaky good performance. CTD had them, hopefully still do.Slips over the blade sight and pins in place.
@EduEnYT Because he joined the Air Force, 19 years ago. He's been collecting for a long time, and some of the gear is borrowed for reviews, too. Sorry, I forgot to sign that last post...I'm his sister, Veri.
I really would like your take on the accu strut type mods and the vented handguards that make it look all M14...interested to know about any accuracy improvements with the new barrels and whether the handguards actually help cool it..keep up the good work
I've fired and owned a few mini 14s and I have to say that for your money they are a great deal. They havnt gotten a bit more pricey of late. But overall they are an awsome gun. They are an awsome small game and target rifle if you are looking for something like that.
Just got back from shooting in the Snake River Conservation Area and this place really reminds me of it. Now i'm cleaning my rifles and enjoying this video with the aroma of Hoppes 9 and Breakfree CLP in the back ground :)
This is 100% on the money. I spent 9 years in law enforcement, and I've always been a VERY avid shooter, so I spent (and still spend) several hours a week on the range running tactical drills of all kinds. I wish I could say the same for MOST of the law enforcement officers that I know. Unfortunately, I know several who never shoot around unless it's getting close to time to qualify every six months. Guys who put in the time to develop the skills are the ones who prevail in combat.
@GalacticEarthling Yup... there is also an excellent rifle called M1A, basically a civillian version of the venerable M-14. Those TNP barricades are just awesome!
The only thing I am wondering about is; What kind of paint did you use to coat the barrels and receivers of your firearms? Is the paint very tolerant against extreme heat? Let me know please. I love the videos you make. Keep making more. Two thumbs up.
@NeedWarForPeace I'm glad you found it humerous. I knew a commander that said, "There is no huah in AF, so we say 'Air Power'". Also, I was part of an AF unit that was mayor of a Camp of all branches, including Coast Guard (they arn't always stay home coast guard.) It was most Army, so we were incharge of the "resident's" wellbeing. Our moto was, "When huah is not enough." Don't get me wrong. When ever I asked a few soldiers for help they were more than happy to give me a hand or several.
I love the mini-14. Always have. I think its what you call, "the second kind of cool". Not only is it reliable and inexpensive, but it's got a classicism to it. Reminiscent of the M!A/M14 type rifle. I love the M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, M1A type action. Very cool. If 6.8spc ever takes off like the .223, the 6.8 chambered Mini will be cool.
@BlacktalonKevlar that's old school, modern combat tactics include training for scopes and reflex sights... but basics is to shoot straight with iron sights....
I recently ran a mini 14 in a tactical course with all factory mags, the magazines have to be downloaded 2 rounds to go into the rifle quickly without a problem. Otherwise you have to stand there trying to rock it in 4 or 5 times at times. Of course it varies from mag to mag. Some of them go in right away. Others are so bad, you have to drop it and go to the next mag. Underloading the mag 2 rounds seems to solve the problem of the mag not going in. Also, the mini 14 is not without its misfeeds and its failures to extract. I was using PMC .223 ammo and some 5.56 green tip as well. I would say that the mini 14 is not all that reliable. However though, the gun made it through the two day course without anything breaking, except for the rear sight which needed to be retightened.
Good stuff. Good points made in the review. The Mini-14 still takes a lot of work to get set up as a fighting gun. With most AR's you just add an optic and your'e good to go. Maybe a light and VG if needed. But with most Ar's, they mount right up, no need to improvise on optic mounting, or need to figure out how to add picatiny rails to the fore end of the stock.
@hermanpotato many special forces units use the mini14 instead of the ar15 because of the almost same amount of accuracy (keep in mind that shooting in combat and on a bench is two entirely diffrent things)
You are spot on about your conversation about Military small arms training. Each individual service members skill with firearms vary and so does the training depending on your MOS or Rate. I've seen Sailors shoot better than Marines in weapons qualifications and Airmen shoot better than Soldiers in overseas combat situations. There are civi's who are simply range junkies that can shoot much better than LEO or Service Members and vice versa. It all depends solely on the individual IMO.
@swampthangification Haven't tried those yet and probably would not recommend them. Not because they don't work but because with these newer Minis they are not needed: as shown at length here, combat accuracy on the Mini is excellent. From the bench 2 MOA is achievable without a strut. It's just more steel clamped onto an otherwise lightweight system. Make it weigh 2 oz and then I'm interested.
I almost bought one, they're great little rifles. I find ammo makes a big difference in accuracy. When I shoot Win. ammo in my XCR I'm getting 1.5" to 2.5" groups @ 100 yards. When I feed my XCR, American Eagle ammo I'm getting 1" to 1.5" groups. That's a big difference.
all us servicemen (and women) have a bit of 'sibling rivalry' with other branches, but all who serve should respect all who serve (or served) regardless of branch. We all pick on each other, 'cause that is what 'brothers' do, but those that do not know it is in good fun just do not get it...
If he's right outta Boot, he should be in great shape! He's got his standard rifle marksmanship training from Edson Range or The Island but he'll get more 'real world' training at AIT and even more if he ever gets away from Motor-T and goes to a combat MOS. The Mini-14 is a decent choice for Battle Rifle. It is reliable and tough and even the old ones have enough accuracy to give the user a great option. I had a Mini-14 Ranch Rifle variant back in the 90's and it worked fine for me.
First of all, HUGE FAN! You do a genuinely awesome job of informing us all. Secondly, wanted to mention that I found a picatinny rail kit that mounts into the rear sight aperture of my Mini-14 Ranch Rifle. Does it render your iron sights useless? Yeah... But it sure is fun. :)
Accu Strut, Har Bar & Mo-Rod I've done a b4 & after on a Ranch w/ Accu Strut; the difference was a good .3-.4 moa- impressive w/ a simple bolt-on part. Haven't done extensive testing or compared the different models- input appreciated!
Hey Nutn. I watch most of your videos. All great. I really enjoyed that one. Prolly cuz im almost 46 yo and still think I have it. Rock on warrior!! State o' mind.
We never did any combat training in USAF basic...just shot at targets...with M16 converted to .22....back in 88. Even as an SP the Only combat type training was with the Army at Ft Dix for combat training.....still not as useful as this kind of training. But i guess when you have squads of guys its kind of dangerous to have live ammo going in that many directions. Great videos BTW...keep them going.
yeah this is a crazy time for us folks who collect guns as a hobby/ historical value etc.. i served as a Marine for 22 years and i was a Range coach/ P.M.I. and i have always valued marksmanship. and now i shoot on weekends like NUTN does, but yes with ammo costs and weapons costs rising it's amazing to me that the politicians feel the way they do about weapons because only upper middle class are able to afford this hobby/sport now aday's.
Will you do a Mini Thirty review in the future? Would like to know more about it as a viable 7.62x39 replacement over buying another AK. Thanks for the good Mini info!
It would be really interesting to see an M1 Carbine out there. It might be an old warhorse, but its still in use by police and the IDF in various forms, and lately is been undergoing a resurgence as a duty weapon in the states. The ultimak rail makes it a very capable semi-tactical carbine. It could do a lot to prove (or disprove) the controversial .30 round.
Nutn, I love your videos... I just have one question. It seems like testing these types of systems with the SH is pointless. If they use the same caliber round, your SH score is mainly due to just how well you shot on that particular run. If I were to test the XDm against the glock by a simulated combat run and gun, I could easily have a great run with the XD, and a bad run with the glock. Someone else could have the opposit outcome. Bottom line, table top reviews are more accurate.
Good stuff, I'm sure the Marines will have this young man ready. However is there such a thing as too much practice ? Who knows maybe some little thing you practice with him could pay off when it really counts. What are your thoughts on the mini 30 ? The mini 14 that's chambered in 7.62x39. I'm interested in a carbine in that caliber, that's reliable, decent/good trigger. The challenge of mounting a scope on the weapon isn't encouraging.
I agree, i was a Marine and a combat vet and when i go shoot now there's guys with no military training who can out shoot me. but hey, what are you gonna do.
This is one of my all time favorite vid series along with winter solstice. I don't own a mini but this video lets me indulge in my closet crush on them. Sweet rifles, hall of fame video series, thanks.
"It doesn't feel like I'm doing it right if there's no one yelling at me" "I'm telling Mrs. Nutnfancy you said that." Haha I don't think nutn liked that too much, but it made me laugh pretty hard.
I've been shooting the mini 14 for 26 years now, it's our primary rifle with the dept. of corrections in Cali. This thing is a beast, I've seen first hand what this can do to someone's femur, nothing like hearing that slide rack.
Wouldn't trade my mini 14 for any other rifle IT BREATHES FIRE!!!!!!
Hi Nutnfancy, thank you so much for taking the time to do these videos. I tremendously appreciate the labour involved and I think I speak for a sizeable group of viewers, especially regular viewers. While the videos *are* long, they are your style, your brand, and those looking for more concise reviews are invited to look elsewhere. Peace and much respect!
I agree with everything yiu said. Keep em coming Nutn
I wish Magpul would make a moe stock for the Mini.
By far my personal favorite to shoot and accuracy is just fine in my standards
I have to disagree with Morro BayCoast on his comment that the M14 was inferior and that was why the M16 replaced it. Here are the facts: Senator Dirkson exposed that the M16 community included a number of Congress who had vested interest in that firearm. The M14 was nearly flawless. I qualified Expert in both as a Vietnam grunt. The M16 jammed over and over again. The MIL SPEC version required MIL SPEC parts and they were expensive. Dirkson ran a test using FBI facilities to find commerial parts worked just fine at a box of them for under a dollar. The similiar part for MIL SPEC was around $100 each. Sorry Morro BayCoast, the fall for the M14 was greed not less capability.
I am looking to purchase a 5.56 now and am thinking about the Mini 14 but do not know about its ability to have bipod, silencer, and mounted scopes.
best upgrades for the older mini's
1. get the longest accustrut or same type device you can get. The pencil barrels flex a lot!
2. A gg&g side scope mount. this thing blows all else out of the water. rock solid and we'll designed, check it out. I've got a Nikon prostaff 3x9 on top. Also it clears your irons so you've got great backups
3. Get yourself a ventilated handguard that's light and cheap. the more exposed barreled the better. you don't grab the barrel anyways.
4. John Masen muzzle brake with integrated front sight. Any new brake/sight is better than the blade sight.
5. If you are taller or have a long length of pull they sell molded recoil pads off Amazon cheap that work really well, especially the curvature for quick roll into shoulder.
6. Side note, if you buy a used one with a shit stock that's banged up, get the dings out with water, a towel and soldering iron. Then give it a stain and spar varnish like for boats makes it water proof and slightly textured pus scratch proof.
7. tighten all the stock screws and make the bedding tighter.
All this plus handloading has made my mini that shot 2-3 moa to .5-1 mos all day long. I own a custom 223 wylde Ar and still like the mini more
Dude, you should have a tv show on the military channel or something.
Another excellent addition to the series, and love the sound effects!
I am Army, shot expert all the years I was in. We never did run and guns, I think all the services should. When SHTF I never met anyone who just kept in one place to fight. Training is everything, we should teach our service members better. Great video, btw guys thank you for your service.
My Son just got a job at Wal-mart, so I bought him a Mini-30 for his birthday.
We're taking Connor's Mini-30 and my XCR out today.
He'll be hunting deer as well as targets.
Of course you are aware that holding a rifle sideways will shoot a bullet to the right of poa.
Great review Nutn, I'll send it to my Son.
@jlunit416 The running joke among some of us TNPers is that the TV series Stargate SG1 is actually based on Nutnfancy & declassified reports of missions he ran offworld. & yes, Colonel Jack O'Neil is based on Nutnfancy...
"Mini-14 against the World" great title. I'm guessing you hold some sentimental feelings with that carbine from your poor college days.
I like the mini-14 maybe because it's something different from all the AR's & AK's.
Awesome vids as always & what a gorgeous day for the Sledgehammer!
I have had a mini-14 since 1996, put maybe 1000 rounds through it, and cleaned it maybe three times. It is by far my favorite rifle.
+1 I finally got to shoot my Mini30 on Easter Sunday.
I like Nutnfancy's run-and-shoot routines. Folks give him lots of crap, but he knows it's not the same as real combat. It's closer to the real thing than any of us do regularly at the range. I wish people would get off his ass about the details and appreciate what he's up to.
@UberR3D; i was going to mention that, glad you brought it up. I'm amazed that the mics pick it up, too. Makes you wonder if all Garand action rifles make that same clang.
im starting to love the Mini 14 tactical the more i read up on it and the more i watch these videos. keep up the great work nutnfancy
Nutnfancy, have you ever tried a reduced gas bushing kit in the Mini? The stock bushing is WAY oversized, overgassing the gun. Makes it nice and reliable, but beats up scopes and doesn't help accuracy.
Accuracy Systems sells a set of three bushings with different size holes. With these you can make the Mini just as reliable and more accurate. It would be very interesting to see you do a review on this inexpensive ($14) upgrade to the Mini.
@thors200; Thanx! I just wanted to know before I tossed in my 2 cents. I cannot speak to the combat durablilty of the Mini 14. From my experience, as a civilian, the Mini does not require much maintenance in the field, easy enough to strip down, and is forgiving of dirt. It has a much simpler action than the ARs & additionally much simpler to maintain. It's rotating bolt is a simple design, with no locking lugs on it. Simple means less chance of breakages
@clayton1clayton1: in addition to what everyone else has said, the one thing I like about Mini 14s is that they are relatively simple to break down & easy to access the parts that get dirty from shooting. It makes cleaning less of a hassle. That's especially important if you're going to be using ammo like Wolf.
THANK YOU! There's something to be said for reliability. =)
I've owned 180's and now 581's. 580's 81's are much improved.
I think the heavier barrel has solved the barrel flex (whip) issues of the horrible thin barrels of the past.
In response to blacktalonkevlar. There is always a place for optics on a combat weapon, and being a rifleman is one of the most basic and integrated part of being a soldier. However, if no optics are available, then yes, one needs to master the iron sights that the weapon came with. Versatility is key, when you have your enemies shooting back at you as well, and thats what keeps you alive and fighting. (USN SPECOPS)
BTW, I got my mini-14 ranch and it came with not only scope rings, but a short rail with pre-drilled mounting holes to rail mount a scope as well.
@swampthangification More specifically, the Accu-Strut will add 8.5 ounces of steel to your barrel. That will change the balance and make the gun slower into action. Maybe for playing around from the bench it's a good choice.
@nutnfancy Thanks Veri. It honestly boggles my mind at times where Nutn finds the time to do table tops and run-n-guns let alone PRODUCTION TIME for his vids and STILL have a life outside of all this.
Thanks again and keep up the great work!
"and as usual we throw in a little pistol shooting for fun, and *shot timer beeps* ooouuhh! he takes me by surprise!" good funny candid stuff there, that's what youtube is ultimately all about, the good stuff that survives editing! Love the review, and wanted to thank you so much for "putting it out there" for all of us, espically for guys like me trying to decide between the very three types of carbine you're showcasing! Awesome, thanks again TNP.
Another great vid nutnfancy. I would be interested to see the rifles compared with the factory irons. True that it would be harder to shoot at thoes farther distances, but, for people like me who just want to shoot with the factory iron... That was one of two big selling points for me when I bought my mini 14; how fast can I turn the safety off after I realize it was left it on, and distance between F & R sight and line of sight to center of bore. Or do thoes things not make much difference?
People in general all too often confuse the practicality of "match grade", "hunting", and "combat accuracy".
With the first two, no one is shooting back at you. And unless your shooting from ranges that are far beyond typical engagement ranges your certainly not going to take your time to get your shots off while exposed.
For the third, 2 to 3 MOA is more than adequate to get the job done under combat conditions.
As for "testicle" (tacti-cool) gizmos, they're great for LE goon squads doing their "turkey shoot" raids, and even for military personnel doing sweep and clear and CQB IN THE SHORT TERM.
But for extended time in the field, all those extra protrusions are just more cumbersome shit that can break, or get snagged on brush, and bang against your body during a long run or hump.
Any old timer that carried a Tommy gun during WWII may tell you that.
If all you had was a stock Mini 14 with a good supply of mags, you could be doing a whole lot worse.
I find the mini-14 nay sayers to be full of wind. My 181 series with a basic 3x9 would do 1MOA (or less) all day long, generally I could do it hole upon hole, this was at 130 yards. I love the stock, being able to walk with it at my side and not worry about the barrel dragging dirt...love your videos btw! I must say, I was a better shooter in previous years, now I'm happy to see the target and hit the target.....dang bifocals.....
We do train in stressfull environments. It all depends what MOS you happen to be in. We do run and guns on a platoon,squad or fire team level.
Why the hell would anyone put a light, a bipod etc(what the hell is a VG?), on a light and handy carbine?
@nutnfancy Thanks Veri and that is correct. I've been trying to upload Part 2 of Mini-14 Against the World all day and it's another TH-cam nightmare...doing a third attempt now!
Really enjoy all your videos. Just wanted to say thanks for spending the time and energy reviewing the products you review.
Thanks for the videos nutnfancy.......I have a question on the Mini14 Series and Accuracy between the improvements done in the early 580 series to the later 580 to 581 series which the only difference I believe is the increased diameter of the barrel. There was a major upgrade to the Mini14 in approx. 2005 with the 580 Series Serial Numbers. The changes were to improve the tolerances and the manufacturing process to increase the accuracy issue complaints. Along with the 2005 changes in the 580 Series Rifles the butt stock was changed and the softer pad type. The modified gas system Improved the vibration reactions and the iron sights changed to the current. Then late 2007 to 2008 in the 580 Series to the 581 Series Ruger also increased the barrel diameter with the noticeable barrel taper. Can you show your target accuracy of the earlier 580 thinner barrel compared to the later thicker barrel 580-581 Series? Is there a difference between these two later dated model changes.
Good review, NF. I purchased a Mini Tactical last year and have been very happy with it. Generally it serves as my centerfire range toy and WORL weapon. I have it equipped with a Burris XTS red dot, 4" picatinney rails and an Ultimak Scout rail. With a mild trigger job and Glasbed stock I have pulled a best of just under 2 moa with PMC Bronze 55gr.
Too much fun man! Wish I had this kind of free range when running all kinds of drills/scenarios.
There is 1 thing about the mini i like, its the distinct clang sound it makes when it fires.
I love my mini, sold it and regret it..prob going to pick up another some time soon...only thing i hate about the mini's is the force at which the brass is expelled..other than that, classic weapon.
I'm sure enjoying all 3 of these type rifles I own; Mini-14, AR-10/15's, and M-1A.
Nutn, I put a 2-7X33 scope on my Mini like yours but chose the VX2 Leupold. Love it on the Mini!!
As always, Nut, your videos are awesomely entertaining and informative. The only thing I didn't like was not being able to be there!
Great Video. Made me finally take the leap on a new Mini-14. Been putting one off because of the reports of 3+ MOA guns. If these newer ones really can get sub 3 MOA I'll take it.
Hey nutn, GG&G now produces an picatinny rail specifically for the mini 14
Per the reference to the lack of rails. I have mounted a set of Leapers G36 aluminum rails on the sides of my factory stock and it works great.
I have also developed my own magazine release to make changes ALMOST as fast as an AR. getting them in is still a trick, but the release is super fast.
My agency has stainless in our patrol cars. We only fire them one time a year and they have been running like that for at least 20 years. This year we began seeing trigger groups falling out during firing along with other mechanical problems. As for tactical accuracy is totally fine though. They are bare with no lights or optics but still a good rifle.
Damn this looks so fun, i'd love to participate in something like this. love the videos, i've gotten 3 guns in big part to your in depth reviews. Keep it up.
I do need to mention, as a multiple Mini owner, my rifles enjoy heavier rounds...70gr area. Mine have pretty good accuracy results with most ammo over 62 grain ammo. I suggest experimenting. You can use 5.56 milspec ammo as well. Very reliable rifles, very rugged. I also use AK-74 style brake/hider on mine...freaky good performance. CTD had them, hopefully still do.Slips over the blade sight and pins in place.
@EduEnYT Because he joined the Air Force, 19 years ago. He's been collecting for a long time, and some of the gear is borrowed for reviews, too. Sorry, I forgot to sign that last post...I'm his sister, Veri.
I really would like your take on the accu strut type mods and the vented handguards that make it look all M14...interested to know about any accuracy improvements with the new barrels and whether the handguards actually help cool it..keep up the good work
ordered mine this week going to pay about 749.99 not including mags or ammo
nutnfancy you rock and thank you for your service to this great nation the USA
I've fired and owned a few mini 14s and I have to say that for your money they are a great deal. They havnt gotten a bit more pricey of late. But overall they are an awsome gun. They are an awsome small game and target rifle if you are looking for something like that.
Im really digging that duracoating on that Rock River AR-15, Coyote Tan if im not mistaken, great video too cant wait to see more!
Just got back from shooting in the Snake River Conservation Area and this place really reminds me of it. Now i'm cleaning my rifles and enjoying this video with the aroma of Hoppes 9 and Breakfree CLP in the back ground :)
This is 100% on the money. I spent 9 years in law enforcement, and I've always been a VERY avid shooter, so I spent (and still spend) several hours a week on the range running tactical drills of all kinds. I wish I could say the same for MOST of the law enforcement officers that I know. Unfortunately, I know several who never shoot around unless it's getting close to time to qualify every six months. Guys who put in the time to develop the skills are the ones who prevail in combat.
@GalacticEarthling
Yup... there is also an excellent rifle called M1A, basically a civillian version of the venerable M-14.
Those TNP barricades are just awesome!
The only thing I am wondering about is; What kind of paint did you use to coat the barrels and receivers of your firearms? Is the paint very tolerant against extreme heat? Let me know please. I love the videos you make. Keep making more. Two thumbs up.
@NeedWarForPeace I'm glad you found it humerous. I knew a commander that said, "There is no huah in AF, so we say 'Air Power'". Also, I was part of an AF unit that was mayor of a Camp of all branches, including Coast Guard (they arn't always stay home coast guard.) It was most Army, so we were incharge of the "resident's" wellbeing. Our moto was, "When huah is not enough."
Don't get me wrong. When ever I asked a few soldiers for help they were more than happy to give me a hand or several.
I can't explain why, but for the intro music, I was inspired to try to match the rhythm with my eyebrows.
The underbrush color looks awesome on the Mini
I love the mini-14. Always have. I think its what you call, "the second kind of cool". Not only is it reliable and inexpensive, but it's got a classicism to it. Reminiscent of the M!A/M14 type rifle. I love the M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, M1A type action. Very cool. If 6.8spc ever takes off like the .223, the 6.8 chambered Mini will be cool.
@BlacktalonKevlar that's old school, modern combat tactics include training for scopes and reflex sights... but basics is to shoot straight with iron sights....
I recently ran a mini 14 in a tactical course with all factory mags, the magazines have to be downloaded 2 rounds to go into the rifle quickly without a problem. Otherwise you have to stand there trying to rock it in 4 or 5 times at times. Of course it varies from mag to mag. Some of them go in right away. Others are so bad, you have to drop it and go to the next mag. Underloading the mag 2 rounds seems to solve the problem of the mag not going in. Also, the mini 14 is not without its misfeeds and its failures to extract. I was using PMC .223 ammo and some 5.56 green tip as well. I would say that the mini 14 is not all that reliable. However though, the gun made it through the two day course without anything breaking, except for the rear sight which needed to be retightened.
I agree. The mini is my favorite rifle. Its got a great feel. It shootsbwell. Its bombproof. Its a winner.
Good stuff. Good points made in the review. The Mini-14 still takes a lot of work to get set up as a fighting gun. With most AR's you just add an optic and your'e good to go. Maybe a light and VG if needed. But with most Ar's, they mount right up, no need to improvise on optic mounting, or need to figure out how to add picatiny rails to the fore end of the stock.
man i love the editing you do man and the vids have great quality and info about thing i did not know 10x for the work you are doing
@hermanpotato many special forces units use the mini14 instead of the ar15 because of the almost same amount of accuracy (keep in mind that shooting in combat and on a bench is two entirely diffrent things)
You are spot on about your conversation about Military small arms training. Each individual service members skill with firearms vary and so does the training depending on your MOS or Rate. I've seen Sailors shoot better than Marines in weapons qualifications and Airmen shoot better than Soldiers in overseas combat situations. There are civi's who are simply range junkies that can shoot much better than LEO or Service Members and vice versa. It all depends solely on the individual IMO.
@swampthangification Haven't tried those yet and probably would not recommend them. Not because they don't work but because with these newer Minis they are not needed: as shown at length here, combat accuracy on the Mini is excellent. From the bench 2 MOA is achievable without a strut. It's just more steel clamped onto an otherwise lightweight system. Make it weigh 2 oz and then I'm interested.
I almost bought one, they're great little rifles.
I find ammo makes a big difference in accuracy.
When I shoot Win. ammo in my XCR I'm getting 1.5" to 2.5" groups @ 100 yards.
When I feed my XCR, American Eagle ammo I'm getting 1" to 1.5" groups.
That's a big difference.
all us servicemen (and women) have a bit of 'sibling rivalry' with other branches, but all who serve should respect all who serve (or served) regardless of branch. We all pick on each other, 'cause that is what 'brothers' do, but those that do not know it is in good fun just do not get it...
great vid nutn, i enjoyed this one alot, i really wish there were land like that here, its gotta be so amazing shooting out there. take care, Hi Veri!
Please do a wear update on all that stuff you dura coated.
I love my Mini-14! Awesome review as usual!
Makes sense. Not the focus of his testing and he doesn't need to add unnecessary to all his prep and cleanup work. Another great video, though!
If he's right outta Boot, he should be in great shape! He's got his standard rifle marksmanship training from Edson Range or The Island but he'll get more 'real world' training at AIT and even more if he ever gets away from Motor-T and goes to a combat MOS.
The Mini-14 is a decent choice for Battle Rifle. It is reliable and tough and even the old ones have enough accuracy to give the user a great option. I had a Mini-14 Ranch Rifle variant back in the 90's and it worked fine for me.
Kevin V Nutnfancy was a Lt Col in the the Air force...I'm not sure who you are talking about....
love the high quality resolution of this video
"Miss. Miss. I bet you regret that shot."
I just had a flash back and said, "Aye, Sir," when I heard that,
Miss... Miss... Bet you regret that shot... 5:11
Awesome video Nutnfancy. Keep it up!
First of all, HUGE FAN! You do a genuinely awesome job of informing us all. Secondly, wanted to mention that I found a picatinny rail kit that mounts into the rear sight aperture of my Mini-14 Ranch Rifle. Does it render your iron sights useless? Yeah... But it sure is fun. :)
Accu Strut, Har Bar & Mo-Rod
I've done a b4 & after on a Ranch w/ Accu Strut; the difference was a good .3-.4 moa- impressive w/ a simple bolt-on part.
Haven't done extensive testing or compared the different models- input appreciated!
Hey Nutn.
I watch most of your videos. All great. I really enjoyed that one. Prolly cuz im almost
46 yo and still think I have it. Rock on warrior!! State o' mind.
We never did any combat training in USAF basic...just shot at targets...with M16 converted to .22....back in 88. Even as an SP the Only combat type training was with the Army at Ft Dix for combat training.....still not as useful as this kind of training. But i guess when you have squads of guys its kind of dangerous to have live ammo going in that many directions. Great videos BTW...keep them going.
yeah this is a crazy time for us folks who collect guns as a hobby/ historical value etc.. i served as a Marine for 22 years and i was a Range coach/ P.M.I. and i have always valued marksmanship. and now i shoot on weekends like NUTN does, but yes with ammo costs and weapons costs rising it's amazing to me that the politicians feel the way they do about weapons because only upper middle class are able to afford this hobby/sport now aday's.
All my Mini's carry a Mo-Rod barrel strut.
If your looking for real, consistent accuracy with your Mini... Mo-Rod is the way to go!
Will you do a Mini Thirty review in the future? Would like to know more about it as a viable 7.62x39 replacement over buying another AK. Thanks for the good Mini info!
It would be really interesting to see an M1 Carbine out there. It might be an old warhorse, but its still in use by police and the IDF in various forms, and lately is been undergoing a resurgence as a duty weapon in the states. The ultimak rail makes it a very capable semi-tactical carbine. It could do a lot to prove (or disprove) the controversial .30 round.
Nutn, I love your videos... I just have one question. It seems like testing these types of systems with the SH is pointless. If they use the same caliber round, your SH score is mainly due to just how well you shot on that particular run. If I were to test the XDm against the glock by a simulated combat run and gun, I could easily have a great run with the XD, and a bad run with the glock. Someone else could have the opposit outcome. Bottom line, table top reviews are more accurate.
Love the new sound effects and music. Nice choice with the Skynyrd!
Thank you sir! I've been waiting a long time for a mini 14 vs ar 15 vs AK
Good stuff, I'm sure the Marines will have this young man ready. However is there such a thing as too much practice ? Who knows maybe some little thing you practice with him could pay off when it really counts.
What are your thoughts on the mini 30 ? The mini 14 that's chambered in 7.62x39. I'm interested in a carbine in that caliber, that's reliable, decent/good trigger. The challenge of mounting a scope on the weapon isn't encouraging.
@74Hobbes No, problem. Comments are so messed up right now (I can't even see what I'm typing) that its a miracle anything posts at all -- Veri
That's funny. "Miss. Miss. Bet you regret taking that shot."
Seriously though great video. Excellent work. Can't wait for the next part. =D
Great video putting the mini to the test. I've read the barrel is thicker on the 16" but is the barrel thicker on the 18.5" barrel as well?
Now that is the best looking AK47 I have seen yet better than the one I used to have with the wooden hand protector and butt stock.
Great video! I haven't read thru all of the comments, but did you mention what sling and scope is on the mini in the video?
I agree, i was a Marine and a combat vet and when i go shoot now there's guys with no military training who can out shoot me. but hey, what are you gonna do.
Liking the sound effects from Dumb and Dumber & Ferris Bueller's Day Off!
Great video!
This is one of my all time favorite vid series along with winter solstice. I don't own a mini but this video lets me indulge in my closet crush on them. Sweet rifles, hall of fame video series, thanks.
"It doesn't feel like I'm doing it right if there's no one yelling at me"
"I'm telling Mrs. Nutnfancy you said that."
Haha I don't think nutn liked that too much, but it made me laugh pretty hard.
Ah . . . its a good day . . . another TNP video! Thanks Nutn. 10/5