Definitely not the state to be a gun owner crazy ridiculous rules took me 10 minutes to buy my ar15 the other day was driving down the road with the rifle after 10 minutes love Arizona
I have a federal firearms license, no 10 day wait for me. If you were in and out in 10 minutes with an AR someone’s not doing there job.@@jamesmiller4085
"Corrections." lol, what did you correct, exactly? Government grew that entire 25 years, yet California is as dangerous as it's ever been. If not even more. Don't bother with the braindead retort that that's not your fault. Just the politicians'. They have no power without their minions.
@@alexmaurice4274I was pretty sure you could so I just wanted to make sure. I can verify 100-percent that you can. I just did it on mine to make sure before I replied to your comment.
Great review Allen. Here in NYC, AR-15's are illegal, and the Mini 14 is the closest to an AR we can get here. Im 52 years old and a newbie to guns. Picked up my first rifle, a Mini 14 a month ago, so this review was exactly what I was looking for.
I love my mini 14. I chose it for my primary rifle because I bought it after the Clinton gun ban. Due to the fact that it would take 5 and 10 round magazines. The gun itself was not banned, only the large capacity magazines were. I found that the gun is very accurate. I was able to hit a two and a half inch spinner at 100 yards with the open iron sights. Pretty good shooting with no scope at that distance. Love this rifle.
I bought my first mini 14 in the early 90’s and later sold it. Always regretted selling the rifle and later bought another one in stainless with synthetic stock. The mini is my favorite rifle. You can buy an AR in many configurations but there is only one mini14 that I know of. It even has its own sound even though it shoots the same ammo as the AR. Yes the mini 14 is more expensive and than most AR’s, and not as tacti-cool, but is a great shooter. My newer mini is better that the older one and will never be sold.
I agree on getting the Mini in it's traditional form with the 18.5" barrel and then IMO keeping it that way. It is what it is and wonderful, trying to turn it into some tactical AR15 type clone defeats it's reason to exist, and if that's what you want, there are better platforms to start from. I have AR's and also a Mini 14 and Mini 30. The Minis are fantastic all round rifles, very compact and well balanced and fun to shoot. They can do it all from plinking, hunting through to self defense while not attracting the same unfavorable and unwanted attention an AR can drum up in certain places. I would however advise getting the stainless steel model, in the real world it costs little more than a blued one, but gives you the benefits of an all stainless barrel and action, which for me justifies the price better as few, if any, contemporaries offer that feature. I like the stainless option, great for when a Mini finds a home in my boat cabin, or anytime you are outdoors for extended periods, where things get wet and a thorough cleaning isn't going to happen.
While shooting with my friends it's really nice to have a variety of different guns for people to try out and discuss. Most people show up with an AR and some kind of black polymer pistol, and that's where a Mini comes in. People are fascinated by the action and the classic feel. It's fun to shoot, is reliable, handles well, and the performance is perfectly fine.
I’ve had the tactical model for over 10-years and I absolutely love it. I chose it over an AR platform. Just a personal choice. If you buy one, you’ll not regret it. Very accurate, easy to shoot, eats anything, and I’ve never had any failures or malfunctions. Edit: my GF has the beautiful Chevron stock and it’s absolutely gorgeous and shoots the same.
Mine is in an Archangel Sparta Chassis. 10/10 Would recommend. Especially if you choose the Mini to be an AR alternative. One motivator to buy a Sparta Chassis was the fact that I got it for a steal because the front and rear sights were already damaged. Some idiot tried to pound off the front sight with a bare steel hammer, gouged the hell out of the sight block and stripped the rear sight assembly retaining screw with undersized bits. Since those are removed for the Sparta Chassis anyway, I went for it. That said, I think I'm gonna pick up an 18.5 inch version to keep in the classic stock for its look and feel.
It's nice to see people taking interest in the Mini 14 again there are a few after market upgrades available. Adding an extended mag release lever makes mag changes so much easier. A front stabilizer mounts to the barrel and gas block tightens groups at 100yrds & beyond. Synthetic and folding stocks to replace wood stocks gives blued models an all black look
I never was a huge fan of the Mini-14,I bought a stainless Ranch rifle years ago and have no issues with it. I’ve only run 55 grain rounds through it, it’s handy little varmint gun around the ranch.
I bought a mini-14 in 2009 and it’s a great tool. Light and dependable. I’m not shooting over 200 yards and this rifle groups within 1.5” at 100 meters easily.
I have one of the pre-580’s from the 1980’s; it was the next-to-last rifle my dad bought (last was an SKS he got at Bill Goodman’s at Hara Arena for $89 with ammo!). Haven’t taken it out in quite a while but I really should. This was when the scope mount screwed into the side of the receiver. He fitted it with a flash hider that has a bayonet lug. Quite a piece! Thanks for posting this, Alan.
Great review. My friend has a Mini-30 and I love that gun. I've debated on pulling the trigger on one of these. Now I will. Additionally, we had some cheap junk Egyptian 7.62x39mm ammo and the SKS couldn't handle it. Three stovepipes. The Mini-30 had so issues at all. Excellent design. The Royal Bermuda Regiment has used the Mini-14GB/20 as its standard service rifle since 1983. Original wooden stocks were replaced with Choate black plastic stocks about 1990.The regiment received L85A2 rifles in August, 2015, and the Ruger was phased out in January, 2016
First "Real" rifle I ever shot. First rifle I ever bought! Dad had one when I was growing up. Before the AR became the standard. I got mine for sentimental reasons and fell for it all over again. Just really fun to shoot!
I inherited my mini from pops. It’s a late 80s version. I shot it well enough to cause serious damage at 300yds. I love my mini. My friends keep telling me I need an AR… I don’t think so. I will keep my mini. Thanks
I am so glad to hear they fixed the accuracy issue. I had one of the old ones and did everything I could to improve it. I really liked the rifle, but the accuracy issue finally made me sell it and buy an AR-15. My AR-15 is very accurate, so I am pleased to own it, but I wish I would have been able to keep my mini, because I like the way it looks and handles better than an AR. Plus, people don't think you are some kind of commando when you pull it out to shoot it. Wood stocks are also very cool in my view. I am to old and on a fixed income, to try again with a new one. I have an M1A which I enjoy as well, but it ain't near as handy as the mini. Thanks for doing your video.😉
While I'm aware of the accuracy issues with the older Mini 14's, I've noticed is that it is still labelled inaccurate because it isn't an MOA rifle, while an AR15 automatically is, and yet TH-cam is full of videos of folks shooting nothing like sub MOA groups with a variety of AR15 platforms. It seems to be something that won't go away, partly because a lot of people seem threatened by anyone choosing to own a Mini, as opposed to their AR15 and have to rubbish it accordingly. I own a Mini 14 and a Mini 30 along with two very accurate AR15's, but see no conflict, they are for me two different firearm concepts and one isn't automatically better than the other - it depends on the intended use. While AR's can definitely be more accurate than Mini's, the current Mini's are not inaccurate and IME will be more accurate than most shooters are going to be. I agree with your points on the Min handling better than a AR, they are very well balanced. I also have an M1A which I love, but it's quite the beast compared to the Mini.
I'm currently making payments on my 2nd Mini 14. My first I bought when Walmart first started carrying rifles in store again, early 2010's. It was around the $700.00 range in-store at that time. As a Walmart employee, I got my 10% discount, and for working Black Friday, we were given an additional 15% discount for 25% off the price. It ended up costing me just under $600.00. My current rifle costed around $850.00, not in Walmart, but the local pawn shop brand new as well, they had ordered one in and I grabbed it. My first Mini was a serial number 581, so it wasn't the first generation of the 580 series. It's been almost flawless in operation. I did have 1 failure to extract and had to force the bolt open because of it. After cleaning the rifle, it's been flawless since. I purchased one of the ATI stocks for it, which does improve the ergonomics somewhat, but it does add extra weight to the rifle. It doesn't completely turn it into an AR, but it feels more like one. I've had it on and off the rifle, but I do prefer the wood stock. I also found a used Hogue stock on ebay and it's pretty nice too. I put a 3-9X40 Bushnell Dusk and Dawn illuminated scope on it with the Ruger Rings, the 581 series preceeds the drilled and tapped receiver. That came out on the 582 or 583 series. I also added an aftermarket muzzle device. So it's set up pretty nice as is. The 581 did come with 1, 5-round magazine, probably specifically for Walmart, and it does work just fine with that mag, and I've purchased 3 more since, but I've also invested in a few 20-round magazines a couple of which are factory Rugers, but the remaining were Pro-Mag 20-rounders. It's been fine using the Pro-Mags. I believe some of the imrovements done for the 580 series were to address the issues running aftermarket mags in the rifles, or the improvements that were made, inadvertantly remedied the issues they were having because it's as reliable with those as with the factory mags. Side by side, the Ruger mags and the Pro-Mag mags look identical, except for the base plates. No, you can't put a Ruger base plate on a Pro-Mag magazine, I tried it. As for the new Mini I'm paying for, I believe it's a 584 series, I don't know for sure what I'll do with it, I've even entertained thoughts of leaving it as is, just like the rifle in the video here, or just putting the rail on and running a red dot. I'll see. I do have AR-15's too, and have home built (assembled) several of them. Love both the Mini's and the AR's. If a SHTF situation happened and I have to give out my AR's to family and friends for their own protection, and I'm left with just my 2 Mini 14's, I'd consider myself well armed.
I have a 580 series stainless and love it. Samson Manufacturing offers the original folding stock. It’s a beautiful mix of modern tactical and old school wood. Pricey but gorgeous and well made. Enjoyed the video.
U can use a small triangle file to make a cut in the top of the aperature to bring in light,removes fuzzy look for some and gives second aim point for 200 yards or so.
I'd like to add that on Ruger's website, older models marked "Cal 223" can all shoot 5.56 ammo with the exception of the Target model which is .223 only. So, if you have an older model you're good to go to shoot 5.56 and mine has been eating a steady diet of XM193 for many years with 100% reliability
The safety is my favorite feature. You can’t flip it off accidentally and it’s always there when you need to. But don’t remove that plate on the left side! You will NEVER find that tiny spring. As for mags, I have two nickel 40 cap mags that haven’t given me any trouble. Got em at a gun show 25 years ago. Don’t know the brand and you can’t have them. Great video. Wish I could like it more than once. Thanks for the coverage.
I have a 580 series (that's when it got all the updates) stainless tactical that came with a 10/22 styled black plastic stock. I put on one of these wood stocks which adds some extra length of pull and it's been a great shooter. I also installed a Choate hand guard which helps ventilate more heat. It was a police trade in I got for a steal.
I commented on other Mini 14 reviews, but I have set two different ones up to use as varmint rifles. One was a stainless Ranch rifle, the other an early model requiring a B square side mount. Mini 14 are easy and fun to shoot, and with every screw set to proper torque, plus proper gas piston operation, they will shoot consistently. The rifle stocks butt plates were very slick, and unless you really school yourself, they will move as you close down your grip on the wrist area as you squeeze the trigger. Eliminate that, and with a good load you're at 1.5 inch groups at a 100 yards. I recently bought back the same early model mentioned from my long retired brother. The scope is a little grayer, but it put the 62 grain handloads still in the MOA as in the '80's.
Own both M1- carbine and mini 14 as well as the mini 30 hunted coyotes,deer , feral hogs with no issues! Never had any problems unlike ar 15s that I have owned and sold! Yes use ruger magazines and enjoy!
It’s hard to justify spending more than $600. on a Mini, especially for old farts like me who payed LESS than that for one just a few years back… yet, here we are and the price isn’t ever going to go down to what MOST of us would consider to be “worth it” again. Even IF the price were to go below $800, who knows what kind of hoops you’d have to go through to get one at that point in time. If you can swing it, and you don’t mind taking heat from the Mrs. for a couple of weeks, you’d be better off getting it over with than waiting too long and not being able to get one at all. The nice thing about a Mini is that it’s very well made and will last you a lifetime, if you take care of it. Add to that Ruger’s awesome warranty and 2nd to none customer service, purchasing one is more of an investment than just any old gun purchase… not to mention that it will get one HELL of a lot more use than that $300 pair of shoes, or the equally expensive Coach purse your wife snuck in after that mall trip with her girlfriends… you know too, because every man in here has had that bombshell show up on the credit card statement from time to time. Items like that get used once or twice and end up collecting dust in the corner of her closet that’s filled with “nothing for her to wear”. Something to consider, IF you are up to dealing with a cold shoulder and a dry month, or two…😏 ***DISCLAIMER*** I am not a lawyer, a doctor or a cop, (anymore), nor do I portray any of the aforementioned on TV, or on the Silver Screen. I’m NOT your wife’s husband, nor do I, nor will I accept any responsibility for any decision that YOU make without your wife’s approval. Any suggestions made are purely and solely to stimulate the inner “single man” that’s trapped inside the heart of any married man who reads and heeds any motivation to stimulate individual thought processes that MAY serve to undermine any and all training received by the wife of a man who may act upon the impulses of motivation or free thought prior to, or in lieu of consultation and approval of his wife. Any negative consequences that may result from following any advice from said author rest solely on the married man who chooses to act upon the advice of the author. Some restrictions apply, not available in all states, for a limited time only, and the next hundred to act within 15 minutes of reading this WILL NOT receive a Pocket Fisherman, a 20 piece Ginsu knife set or a K-Tel deluxe record vacuum. Must be 18yrs of age, or older and YMMV by state or local restrictions.
I own several ARs AKs ect ect. Just something about my mini 14 I love. Mines the ranch 580 serial number series, which has the little thicker barrel. The damn thing still gets hot fast lol, but lots of fun to shoot.
One thing you didn't touch on and I feel is important anyway is how easily one can change the furniture on the Mini-14 in less than a minute literally. I use the black polymer stock that came with my 5812 Law Enforcement model with GB Gov. Barrel as well as a wood stock like thie one in your video when I feel like it and I also use an ATI Strikeforce Tactical stock which has a folding adjustable stock like the AR platform. The bonus is it can be fired with the stock folded which I have heard you cannot with the AR format because of the buffer tube.
I've had issues with the Mini 14. After a few magazines, you start to get unburnt powder in your face. The magazines are not as common to find and they're expensive. The take down procedure is also not as easy as the AR.
I own an A-R 15, and I like that it's modular, but I wouldn't complain if I had a Mini, cause they're kinda cool, and Ruger fixed the accuracy problems! Plus, it uses the same ammo.
Love the look! Unfortunately I bought an early gun! LOL Couldn't hit the broad side of a barn with it, and the empty casings ejected straight back, down my shirt blistering my chest. Away it went. Replaced it with Bushmaster AR, never looked back. My Tula SKS was far more reliable, and accurate. Late models I've shot are excellent. But like you said, mags ain't cheap being proprietary, to be reliable.
Love my Mini-14 and 30. There just something different to shoot than an AR or AK all the time. I plan on another 14 with the 16" barrel to put my A-Team Samson stock on it.
Like many things, there is that intangible X factor that massively increases the appeal of something beyond facts and figures and for that reason I find my Mini 14 and Mini 30 much more engaging and fun to fire and handle than my AR15's.It's great to have a choice and to be blessed to own both.
Purchased the “Newer” Mini 14 a few years ago! Quite happy with the accuracy and handling as it reminds me of the M14 and M1 Garand I trained with many years ago. I do prefer classic style rifles with wooden stocks. Plastic stocks are not what I would purchase. Guess that just me!
@@hunterroberts9951 I have not experienced any issues, stock is cleaned and oiled frequently. Just remember plastic stocks were not available during the war for independence, wwII. Many early wooden stocks on very old firearms are still serviceable.
I left my rear sight on my mini 30 mainly so I would keep track of it. Had to send back the mounts it came with an ruger exchanged them for the taller ones because the brass was banging my scope body on the way out and marring it.
I am still undecided between a mini 14 and a 30, but I do love the style to match my M1a. I was going the tactical route with the style, but you might have convinced me to go the hardwood route.
Here’s something to consider… You can purchase a Mini 14 Tactical that comes with the 16” barrel and flash hider and purchase a traditional Ruger made walnut stock, NIB, from Midway for around $120. To my mind, there’s hardly a better looking Mini 14 setup than a Tactical version with a traditional walnut stock, with the exception of the Samson A-TM folder that has recently been reintroduced into the market. Those go for around $300., but they’re a licensed Ruger accessory and they’re built to last. Just a few options to think about that will make the Mini uniquely yours.😏
I have an ATI folder. It's cool and all however very difficult to get a good cheek well with it using iron sights. You are still stuck with Ruger rings or a forward mounted optic. ATI does provide pickatiny rail up front which was removed first because you can no longer use irons as it is in the way. Even though it does fold and is very rigged when deployed I still went back to the original stock.
I have the Mini 14 and the Mini 30, both great fun to shoot. If I could only have one I would probably go with the Mini 14 but luckily I have collected both of them.
@@rangerdanger766 I have both in 584 series, I found the Mini 30 to be much nicer out of the box and more accurate, it's never once had any type of feed or ejection issue with all types of ammo. My Mini 14 in comparison was less pleasant to shoot and did have some ejection issues. Comparing the two it was obvious that the Mini 14 was way overgassed with cases being ejected at extreme speeds and distance and a felt recoil that was more than the Mini 30. As a result I fitted a much smaller gas bushing that transformed the rifle, it still throws the cases a long way, but now never leaves the empty case behind by opening the action too soon. Now it shoots as nicely as my Colt AR and I love both of my Mini's. However of the two the 30 is still the more consistently accurate of the two, it shoots the various steel cased Barnaul variants in a tight group that equals what it can do with Remington Corelokt. I'd say the choice between the two for many comes down to which caliber you prefer, which could also be which one you don't have, or the fact you want another rifle in the same caliber that shoots the same ammo as an existing one.
Always on my list. Should've gotten one before things have been inflated. Great lefty shooter. Stainless but I may just grab one just like this before theyre gone
I don't own a gun. I live in Europe and I don't hunt, so it's unlikely I'll have a gun ever. But I appreciate the engineering, the craftmanship and the History around (sometimes) this pieces. I arrived here after I read someone mocking George Clooney for using a Ruger Mini 14 as a sniper's rifle in The American movie. This vid earned a like and a new subscriber. Wel done.
Even in 2022 the Mini (in either the 14 or 30 versions) is still an excellent choice and typically more reliable than the direct impingement operated AR. Overall the factory mags are the best/most reliable choice (in 5 or 20 versions) but I have both heard and read many complaints about the factory produced 10 round mags. No doubt those issues are receiving greater attention due to more states deciding that it's illegal for their residents to own a device with a capacity greater than 10 rounds. About 4 or 5 yrs back, Samson began offering a licensed modern version of the original factory folder made famous by the A-Team and it's worth a look if Mini owners are interested in a more compact option but want to avoid the plastic aesthetic displayed by other stocks 🇺🇸
I have a Mini 14 Tactical with the A-TM stock from Samson and I absolutely LOVE the way it looks and shoots. The pistol grip and lower aim point with the A-TM brings a whole new dynamic in shoot ability. The control is greatly improved with the introduction of the pistol grip and the flash hider helps reduce flip for faster follow up shots. It’s really the best configuration for a Mini, IMO.👍🏻
Absolutely love my short barreled tactical model and my GF loves hers with the Chevron stock. Look up the mini-14 with the wooden, chevron stock. Absolutely beautiful.
Couple of years back my older friend in my car club said he had a rifle for sale, went and looked and it was a stainless mini14 with a perfect wood stock. Made in 94 so its a pencil barrel, had maybe 100 rounds ran thru it. I paid 500$. It even has a strut system installed and i also added a Lpvo on original Ruger scope rings. Love it!
I am a fan of the Mini 14. I picked up a late 80's version from a police surplus auction. it's stainless steel, birch stocked, and came with 20 round magazine marked "For Law Enforcement use only." I picked up 2 Ruger 5 round mags for it as well. With the 55 grain ball ammo it will easiy deal with a coyote at 100 yards. It's also fun to shoot. It's like my M1 Carbine, but cheaper and easier to find ammo for.
@@magiccarpetrider4594 Mine occasionally would misfire on Tula while no problems with all the other steel cased ammo I have. However after putting a few hundred rounds down range it's fine. The problem is how far the firing pi protrudes beyond the bolt face with Tula's deep set primers. I assume after some use, my pin now makes it a fraction further forward. From choice I never use Tula anyway, just had some in my ammo collection, there are better choices in steel cased, or perhaps "were" is the word as supplies of Russian ammo dry up with the ban taking effect. Mine is really accurate with the Barnaul made Ammunition, I was really surprised in a recent test I did, shooting 5 round groups with every type of ammo I had on hand, I wasn't doing any better with Remington Corelokt than I was with the Barnaul soft points.
I use my mini thirty for deer hunting and I have had a few light primer strikes with Red Army standard ammo and a few with Tula as well. Luckily not while shooting at deer. I put in a wolf hammer spring a few months ago which seems to have helped with the light primer strikes, though I must admit I haven’t shot tons of rounds testing it. In terms of accuracy, I found my mini thirty likes Tula 154 grain soft points the best, which is funny as they’re about 1/4 the cost of Winchester Power Points, the other type of hunting ammo I’ve managed to find. I’ve got better groups with the 154 grain Tula than anything else. I will say that I’ve never had any issues with American brass case ammo.
@@destroyingdadxx2274 Mine seems to shoot the Barnaul made Silver Bear and straight Barnaul branded ammo as good as anything I've tried including Remington Corelokt, the 125gr Barnaul Soft Points seem like pretty good ammo and group best, although most of the ammo I've tried is pretty similar, nothing horrible accuracy wise. The problem with "soft strikes" is not truly a soft strike problem, it's that the firing pin does not protrude enough through the bolt face to set of some of recessed primers found in steel cased ammo, Tula in particular. Ruger were playing it safe regarding slam fires, or pierced primers on brass cased ammo. A stronger spring can just give a slight edge due to higher impact speed, but if it's a problem buying the after market firing pin that comes further through the bolt face is the solution. Otherwise the firing pin is just getting slammed harder on the back of the bolt harder, but can't be forced out further. I've run Tula through mine again after it having fired 600 rounds, or so and I did not get any FTF's as I did when new, even then it was something like 1 in 10-20. I was considering the longer firing pin, but I'm happy with it now, if I was using the rifle for Self Defense, or Hunting I would not have Tula ammo on board any how, so it's a none issue right now.
100%! Mini 14 rules! I know it upsets the AR 15 guys, but it is my opinion. Take it or leave it. I have a few mods on mine. It will shoot with most AR's. To each your own.
Thanks so much! Such an informative video without all the extra bs footage tat doesn't show you accuracy for anything else important. Well done! I have also seen so many people struggle with the magazine load and unload, yours was smooth as butter!
Have a Mini-14 Ranch Rifle from '99, it is also chambered in .5.56 NATO although on the receiver, it is printed CAL. .223. Ruger had a target version of the Mini-14 chambered in .223 Remington only. I changed out the wooden stock on my Mini for a black Hogue over molded stock and put a 3X9 variably powered scope on it. The only problem is that it has the thin pencil barrel and not the much improved barrel they make today. It is still a great and fun rifle to shoot and utterly reliable.
Like you video. I own an older model from the 90s . It has a SS barrel and I added a flash suppressor. I only use the stock sights. Is a cool simple rifle and I like it.
My dad has had his mini14 since I was a little boy growing up and he still loves it, thats the first reason I decided to buy me one, every time I shoot it, just brings alot of good memories, I carry it everywhere I go, is always there, is always ready and it wont let you down, just saying…
Mini 14 are great, the only problem I have with them is that they chew up brass. As a reloader, any rounds that I put through a mini 14 are totally trashed. This is the reason that mine sits in storage.
Tapco Gen 2 Poly's with steel insert are GREAT and I've had no PROBLEMS with the new Pro Mags.... Try a $20 dollar Pro Mag 30 Round or even 20 Round AFTER you add a drop of oil and Break it in a little with "Snap Cap" cycling or LIVE in a safe place.... My Pro Mags and Tapco's work as well as my Rugers since 2015.... There's also 1 Straight sittins 20 rounder that was Good for "Practice" and cheap... still got it...
THAT is how you do a review. Sir, thank you for this informative video. I appreciate the info about the 1:9 twist wanting lighter ammo. I did not know that. Thanks.
My 580 series has the thin barrel profile and not the heavier one most 580 series and up have. I added an accustrut and a couple 1911 recoil buffers and it’s a good shooting rifle that is built like a tank. Love mine.
I have mine with the stainless receiver and barrel. That's one aspect that a mini-14 can beat an AR-15 in features. I also prefer the piston gas system of the mini-14 to the direct impingement of the AR-15. The receiver runs cooler and cleaner to simplify maintenance and cleaning.
+1 on the stainless, for the extra it actually costs in the real world, it justifies the overall price far better for me as there are virtually no competitive platforms offering this. For the type of rifle it is and it's intended uses, I really like that benefit.
I own a 2002 (shipped) Mini 14 and have multiple after market stocks that collect dust. I always go back to the wood, and IMO it is the best, nothing is nicer than a wooden stock. I do run a little Nikon P223 scope on it which looks good and is perfect for what I do with it. I have several AR's but truly enjoy shooting my Mini, However I can only shoot it we go to the boonies, at the outdoor range it flings brass two lanes over and pelts everyone. So it is a in the wild kind of gun or before anyone shows up to my right. Love the gun and have had zero issues with it, plus its a classic as far I'm concerned. BTW I also like my 1911's.
I bought a tactical version about 10 years ago with the ATI folding stock package on it . At the time it’ was all the rage . But in hindsight , I wish I’d bought one with the wooden stock . That birch if I’m not mistaken .
I find it hard to compare the AR with the much simpler Mini 14. I think the mini is a very good all-round and all steel hillbilly rifle that will take a beating in the field and still look good.
I have both platforms, I'm not sure why the debate has to rage on, it seems mostly AR people who can't get over the idea of someone not buying an AR keep it going. IMO they are not direct competitors, the Mini is an all round traditional rifle, that has a lot of character and is fun, while being compact and sweet handling. It's understated looks are to my liking, pulling an AR out when others are around can make you look like some sort of "commando want to be" and can instill unjustified fear in others, meanwhile many who know a little about guns, think you have a Ruger 10/22 in your hands. IMO the AR15 serves different role, people may as well say all bolt action rifles are useless etc. because they are not an AR and have different controls etc. as bash on the Mini. Thank goodness we have such choices, each to their own, buy what you want and be happy and don't worry about what others think.
I just bough one with the tactical folding stock…one of those too good to pass up deals. I’m currently anxiously awaiting for the conventional stock to arrive in the mail from midway!
![Why Won't the Ruger Mini-14 Just Die? [Part 1]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EzyGl_w-IXg/mqdefault.jpg)
![Why Won't the Ruger Mini-14 Just Die? [Part 1]](/img/tr.png)
The mini 14 is a hidden jem in this day and age, very underappreciated.
*gem
*gem
Retired California State Correctional Officer, this was our primary weapon for State Prisons. I carried one for 25 years. Great Rifle.
Definitely not the state to be a gun owner crazy ridiculous rules took me 10 minutes to buy my ar15 the other day was driving down the road with the rifle after 10 minutes love Arizona
I have a federal firearms license, no 10 day wait for me. If you were in and out in 10 minutes with an AR someone’s not doing there job.@@jamesmiller4085
"Corrections." lol, what did you correct, exactly? Government grew that entire 25 years, yet California is as dangerous as it's ever been. If not even more.
Don't bother with the braindead retort that that's not your fault. Just the politicians'. They have no power without their minions.
I’m late- but wondering can you top load the mini by hand without stripper clips?
@@alexmaurice4274I was pretty sure you could so I just wanted to make sure. I can verify 100-percent that you can. I just did it on mine to make sure before I replied to your comment.
This was such a refreshing vid. No in my face music, just calm, collected, and concise. Perfect. Sub’d
Sir, this is by far the best and most informative video on TH-cam covering the mini 14, very plain and simple, no nonsense! Thank you for posting!
Great review Allen. Here in NYC, AR-15's are illegal, and the Mini 14 is the closest to an AR we can get here. Im 52 years old and a newbie to guns. Picked up my first rifle, a Mini 14 a month ago, so this review was exactly what I was looking for.
Get an 80% receiver in cash in another state, buy your upper and ship them back to your house in NY.
Excellent review. At my tender age of 77 I think this rifle will suit my needs perfectly.
I love my mini 14. I chose it for my primary rifle because I bought it after the Clinton gun ban. Due to the fact that it would take 5 and 10 round magazines. The gun itself was not banned, only the large capacity magazines were. I found that the gun is very accurate. I was able to hit a two and a half inch spinner at 100 yards with the open iron sights. Pretty good shooting with no scope at that distance. Love this rifle.
I love the sound it makes when you work the action.
I bought my first mini 14 in the early 90’s and later sold it. Always regretted selling the rifle and later bought another one in stainless with synthetic stock. The mini is my favorite rifle. You can buy an AR in many configurations but there is only one mini14 that I know of. It even has its own sound even though it shoots the same ammo as the AR. Yes the mini 14 is more expensive and than most AR’s, and not as tacti-cool, but is a great shooter. My newer mini is better that the older one and will never be sold.
I agree on getting the Mini in it's traditional form with the 18.5" barrel and then IMO keeping it that way. It is what it is and wonderful, trying to turn it into some tactical AR15 type clone defeats it's reason to exist, and if that's what you want, there are better platforms to start from. I have AR's and also a Mini 14 and Mini 30. The Minis are fantastic all round rifles, very compact and well balanced and fun to shoot. They can do it all from plinking, hunting through to self defense while not attracting the same unfavorable and unwanted attention an AR can drum up in certain places. I would however advise getting the stainless steel model, in the real world it costs little more than a blued one, but gives you the benefits of an all stainless barrel and action, which for me justifies the price better as few, if any, contemporaries offer that feature. I like the stainless option, great for when a Mini finds a home in my boat cabin, or anytime you are outdoors for extended periods, where things get wet and a thorough cleaning isn't going to happen.
This guy's great. To the point, informative, and somehow keeps it interesting, in a conversational style sort of way. He earned my subscription.
While shooting with my friends it's really nice to have a variety of different guns for people to try out and discuss. Most people show up with an AR and some kind of black polymer pistol, and that's where a Mini comes in. People are fascinated by the action and the classic feel. It's fun to shoot, is reliable, handles well, and the performance is perfectly fine.
I’ve had the tactical model for over 10-years and I absolutely love it. I chose it over an AR platform. Just a personal choice.
If you buy one, you’ll not regret it. Very accurate, easy to shoot, eats anything, and I’ve never had any failures or malfunctions.
Edit: my GF has the beautiful Chevron stock and it’s absolutely gorgeous and shoots the same.
Mine is in an Archangel Sparta Chassis. 10/10 Would recommend. Especially if you choose the Mini to be an AR alternative. One motivator to buy a Sparta Chassis was the fact that I got it for a steal because the front and rear sights were already damaged. Some idiot tried to pound off the front sight with a bare steel hammer, gouged the hell out of the sight block and stripped the rear sight assembly retaining screw with undersized bits. Since those are removed for the Sparta Chassis anyway, I went for it.
That said, I think I'm gonna pick up an 18.5 inch version to keep in the classic stock for its look and feel.
Some of the best reviews on TH-cam. Love the attention to detail and history lessons. The Mini-14 is awesome.
A very concise review and detailed analysis of the Ruger Mini-14! Thank you, OE Outfitters!
Great review. I learned the ‘stick to Ruger magazines’ lesson with my mini-30. Won’t make that mistake with the mini-14.
Dig the gunnery sergeant break down. No non-since . It's really well thought out.
I love my pa's old mini 30, haters are just going to hate, seems to hit well and hard. Big ups to the Mini.
It's nice to see people taking interest in the Mini 14 again there are a few after market upgrades available. Adding an extended mag release lever makes mag changes so much easier. A front stabilizer mounts to the barrel and gas block tightens groups at 100yrds & beyond. Synthetic and folding stocks to replace wood stocks gives blued models an all black look
I never was a huge fan of the Mini-14,I bought a stainless Ranch rifle years ago and have no issues with it. I’ve only run 55 grain rounds through it, it’s handy little varmint gun around the ranch.
I bought a mini-14 in 2009 and it’s a great tool. Light and dependable. I’m not shooting over 200 yards and this rifle groups within 1.5” at 100 meters easily.
I have one of the pre-580’s from the 1980’s; it was the next-to-last rifle my dad bought (last was an SKS he got at Bill Goodman’s at Hara Arena for $89 with ammo!). Haven’t taken it out in quite a while but I really should. This was when the scope mount screwed into the side of the receiver. He fitted it with a flash hider that has a bayonet lug. Quite a piece! Thanks for posting this, Alan.
Great review. My friend has a Mini-30 and I love that gun. I've debated on pulling the trigger on one of these. Now I will. Additionally, we had some cheap junk Egyptian 7.62x39mm ammo and the SKS couldn't handle it. Three stovepipes. The Mini-30 had so issues at all. Excellent design. The Royal Bermuda Regiment has used the Mini-14GB/20 as its standard service rifle since 1983. Original wooden stocks were replaced with Choate black plastic stocks about 1990.The regiment received L85A2 rifles in August, 2015, and the Ruger was phased out in January, 2016
My first mini14 in the 80s.Great platform..
First "Real" rifle I ever shot. First rifle I ever bought! Dad had one when I was growing up. Before the AR became the standard. I got mine for sentimental reasons and fell for it all over again. Just really fun to shoot!
Great review. Love mine: classic look, easy to handle and run, and looks less threatening to those folks afraid of the "scary black rifles".
Floyd Teter,
Something about scaring those that are afraid of the "scary black rifles" pleases me . . .
I inherited my mini from pops. It’s a late 80s version. I shot it well enough to cause serious damage at 300yds. I love my mini. My friends keep telling me I need an AR… I don’t think so. I will keep my mini. Thanks
Thanks for the professional review. Been watching mini 14 reviews all evening and this one was the most informative. Appreciated.
i love the mini ruger series, i finally got my hands on a ac556 it is so cool. gonna get a supresser and see what happens
I am so glad to hear they fixed the accuracy issue. I had one of the old ones and did everything I could to improve it. I really liked the rifle, but the accuracy issue finally made me sell it and buy an AR-15. My AR-15 is very accurate, so I am pleased to own it, but I wish I would have been able to keep my mini, because I like the way it looks and handles better than an AR. Plus, people don't think you are some kind of commando when you pull it out to shoot it. Wood stocks are also very cool in my view. I am to old and on a fixed income, to try again with a new one. I have an M1A which I enjoy as well, but it ain't near as handy as the mini. Thanks for doing your video.😉
The barrels were too thin on the older Mini 14’s. No amount of adjustments could fix the accuracy. The new ones are good to go.
They fixed it 30 years ago
While I'm aware of the accuracy issues with the older Mini 14's, I've noticed is that it is still labelled inaccurate because it isn't an MOA rifle, while an AR15 automatically is, and yet TH-cam is full of videos of folks shooting nothing like sub MOA groups with a variety of AR15 platforms. It seems to be something that won't go away, partly because a lot of people seem threatened by anyone choosing to own a Mini, as opposed to their AR15 and have to rubbish it accordingly. I own a Mini 14 and a Mini 30 along with two very accurate AR15's, but see no conflict, they are for me two different firearm concepts and one isn't automatically better than the other - it depends on the intended use. While AR's can definitely be more accurate than Mini's, the current Mini's are not inaccurate and IME will be more accurate than most shooters are going to be. I agree with your points on the Min handling better than a AR, they are very well balanced. I also have an M1A which I love, but it's quite the beast compared to the Mini.
I'm currently making payments on my 2nd Mini 14. My first I bought when Walmart first started carrying rifles in store again, early 2010's. It was around the $700.00 range in-store at that time. As a Walmart employee, I got my 10% discount, and for working Black Friday, we were given an additional 15% discount for 25% off the price. It ended up costing me just under $600.00. My current rifle costed around $850.00, not in Walmart, but the local pawn shop brand new as well, they had ordered one in and I grabbed it.
My first Mini was a serial number 581, so it wasn't the first generation of the 580 series. It's been almost flawless in operation. I did have 1 failure to extract and had to force the bolt open because of it. After cleaning the rifle, it's been flawless since.
I purchased one of the ATI stocks for it, which does improve the ergonomics somewhat, but it does add extra weight to the rifle. It doesn't completely turn it into an AR, but it feels more like one. I've had it on and off the rifle, but I do prefer the wood stock. I also found a used Hogue stock on ebay and it's pretty nice too. I put a 3-9X40 Bushnell Dusk and Dawn illuminated scope on it with the Ruger Rings, the 581 series preceeds the drilled and tapped receiver. That came out on the 582 or 583 series. I also added an aftermarket muzzle device. So it's set up pretty nice as is.
The 581 did come with 1, 5-round magazine, probably specifically for Walmart, and it does work just fine with that mag, and I've purchased 3 more since, but I've also invested in a few 20-round magazines a couple of which are factory Rugers, but the remaining were Pro-Mag 20-rounders. It's been fine using the Pro-Mags. I believe some of the imrovements done for the 580 series were to address the issues running aftermarket mags in the rifles, or the improvements that were made, inadvertantly remedied the issues they were having because it's as reliable with those as with the factory mags. Side by side, the Ruger mags and the Pro-Mag mags look identical, except for the base plates. No, you can't put a Ruger base plate on a Pro-Mag magazine, I tried it.
As for the new Mini I'm paying for, I believe it's a 584 series, I don't know for sure what I'll do with it, I've even entertained thoughts of leaving it as is, just like the rifle in the video here, or just putting the rail on and running a red dot. I'll see.
I do have AR-15's too, and have home built (assembled) several of them. Love both the Mini's and the AR's. If a SHTF situation happened and I have to give out my AR's to family and friends for their own protection, and I'm left with just my 2 Mini 14's, I'd consider myself well armed.
I have a 580 series stainless and love it. Samson Manufacturing offers the original folding stock. It’s a beautiful mix of modern tactical and old school wood. Pricey but gorgeous and well made. Enjoyed the video.
U can use a small triangle file to make a cut in the top of the aperature to bring in light,removes fuzzy look for some and gives second aim point for 200 yards or so.
I bought a tactical a decade ago but kinda wish I had gone with a wood one. Man I love this rifle. Absolutely beautiful and classic.
Plain and simple....I love my Mini-14
Never owned a Mini 14 but always liked the way they looked and enjoyed their trigger when shooting. However, that price is a bit too high for me.
God I wish I could own a Mini-14. For all America's problems you guys are so blessed with the 2nd amendment! Thank you founding fathers.
I'd like to add that on Ruger's website, older models marked "Cal 223" can all shoot 5.56 ammo with the exception of the Target model which is .223 only. So, if you have an older model you're good to go to shoot 5.56 and mine has been eating a steady diet of XM193 for many years with 100% reliability
The safety is my favorite feature. You can’t flip it off accidentally and it’s always there when you need to.
But don’t remove that plate on the left side! You will NEVER find that tiny spring.
As for mags, I have two nickel 40 cap mags that haven’t given me any trouble. Got em at a gun show 25 years ago. Don’t know the brand and you can’t have them.
Great video. Wish I could like it more than once.
Thanks for the coverage.
I have a 580 series (that's when it got all the updates) stainless tactical that came with a 10/22 styled black plastic stock. I put on one of these wood stocks which adds some extra length of pull and it's been a great shooter. I also installed a Choate hand guard which helps ventilate more heat. It was a police trade in I got for a steal.
I love my Mini-14. My Dad loves the M1A I bought for him. He had an M-14 when he was drafted in 64. Great video. Stay safe Brother. 😎🇺🇸
I commented on other Mini 14 reviews, but I have set two different ones up to use as varmint rifles. One was a stainless Ranch rifle, the other an early model requiring a B square side mount. Mini 14 are easy and fun to shoot, and with every screw set to proper torque, plus proper gas piston operation, they will shoot consistently. The rifle stocks butt plates were very slick, and unless you really school yourself, they will move as you close down your grip on the wrist area as you squeeze the trigger. Eliminate that, and with a good load you're at 1.5 inch groups at a 100 yards. I recently bought back the same early model mentioned from my long retired brother. The scope is a little grayer, but it put the 62 grain handloads still in the MOA as in the '80's.
Own both M1- carbine and mini 14 as well as the mini 30 hunted coyotes,deer , feral hogs with no issues! Never had any problems unlike ar 15s that I have owned and sold! Yes use ruger magazines and enjoy!
Love my mini 14 with wood stock
Good video, professionally done; liked the frequent camera angle changes. Good presentation, no muss no fuss.
At almost 1k right now. It's really hard to justify the price. But I do like it.
It’s hard to justify spending more than $600. on a Mini, especially for old farts like me who payed LESS than that for one just a few years back… yet, here we are and the price isn’t ever going to go down to what MOST of us would consider to be “worth it” again. Even IF the price were to go below $800, who knows what kind of hoops you’d have to go through to get one at that point in time.
If you can swing it, and you don’t mind taking heat from the Mrs. for a couple of weeks, you’d be better off getting it over with than waiting too long and not being able to get one at all.
The nice thing about a Mini is that it’s very well made and will last you a lifetime, if you take care of it. Add to that Ruger’s awesome warranty and 2nd to none customer service, purchasing one is more of an investment than just any old gun purchase… not to mention that it will get one HELL of a lot more use than that $300 pair of shoes, or the equally expensive Coach purse your wife snuck in after that mall trip with her girlfriends… you know too, because every man in here has had that bombshell show up on the credit card statement from time to time. Items like that get used once or twice and end up collecting dust in the corner of her closet that’s filled with “nothing for her to wear”.
Something to consider, IF you are up to dealing with a cold shoulder and a dry month, or two…😏
***DISCLAIMER*** I am not a lawyer, a doctor or a cop, (anymore), nor do I portray any of the aforementioned on TV, or on the Silver Screen.
I’m NOT your wife’s husband, nor do I, nor will I accept any responsibility for any decision that YOU make without your wife’s approval. Any suggestions made are purely and solely to stimulate the inner “single man” that’s trapped inside the heart of any married man who reads and heeds any motivation to stimulate individual thought processes that MAY serve to undermine any and all training received by the wife of a man who may act upon the impulses of motivation or free thought prior to, or in lieu of consultation and approval of his wife.
Any negative consequences that may result from following any advice from said author rest solely on the married man who chooses to act upon the advice of the author.
Some restrictions apply, not available in all states, for a limited time only, and the next hundred to act within 15 minutes of reading this WILL NOT receive a Pocket Fisherman, a 20 piece Ginsu knife set or a K-Tel deluxe record vacuum. Must be 18yrs of age, or older and YMMV by state or local restrictions.
Get a hand guard replacement site mount rail for it, and a scout rifle scope. Beautifully functional combo.
I own several ARs AKs ect ect. Just something about my mini 14 I love. Mines the ranch 580 serial number series, which has the little thicker barrel. The damn thing still gets hot fast lol, but lots of fun to shoot.
One thing you didn't touch on and I feel is important anyway is how easily one can change the furniture on the Mini-14 in less than a minute literally. I use the black polymer stock that came with my 5812 Law Enforcement model with GB Gov. Barrel as well as a wood stock like thie one in your video when I feel like it and I also use an ATI Strikeforce Tactical stock which has a folding adjustable stock like the AR platform. The bonus is it can be fired with the stock folded which I have heard you cannot with the AR format because of the buffer tube.
Im now subbed. Liked the style of the review
I've had issues with the Mini 14. After a few magazines, you start to get unburnt powder in your face. The magazines are not as common to find and they're expensive. The take down procedure is also not as easy as the AR.
Have the Mini 14 in Walnut with the Stainless I get more comments on this set up than if I take my AR 15 to the range. Actually, more fun to shot!!!
I own an A-R 15, and I like that it's modular, but I wouldn't complain if I had a Mini, cause they're kinda cool, and Ruger fixed the accuracy problems! Plus, it uses the same ammo.
Owned mine since 1979. Think it was like $175.00 brand new. Still love it.
Love the look! Unfortunately I bought an early gun! LOL Couldn't hit the broad side of a barn with it, and the empty casings ejected straight back, down my shirt blistering my chest. Away it went. Replaced it with Bushmaster AR, never looked back. My Tula SKS was far more reliable, and accurate. Late models I've shot are excellent. But like you said, mags ain't cheap being proprietary, to be reliable.
Love my mini I will never let it go!
Love my Mini-14 and 30. There just something different to shoot than an AR or AK all the time. I plan on another 14 with the 16" barrel to put my A-Team Samson stock on it.
Like many things, there is that intangible X factor that massively increases the appeal of something beyond facts and figures and for that reason I find my Mini 14 and Mini 30 much more engaging and fun to fire and handle than my AR15's.It's great to have a choice and to be blessed to own both.
Purchased the “Newer” Mini 14 a few years ago! Quite happy with the accuracy and handling as it reminds me of the M14 and M1 Garand I trained with many years ago. I do prefer classic style rifles with wooden stocks. Plastic stocks are not what I would purchase. Guess that just me!
How does the wood stock handle moisture, rain and humidity? any issues?
synthetics are lighter, for more of a 'tracking' hunt....
@@hunterroberts9951 I have not experienced any issues, stock is cleaned and oiled frequently. Just remember plastic stocks were not available during the war for independence, wwII. Many early wooden stocks on very old firearms are still serviceable.
@@marktwaine9344 Yes they are lighter, wood is my go to choice. Thats just me.
Love your presentation. Subbed and liked. The Mini is a great carbine. Very reliable. You don’t have to remove the rear sight to scope it.
I left my rear sight on my mini 30 mainly so I would keep track of it. Had to send back the mounts it came with an ruger exchanged them for the taller ones because the brass was banging my scope body on the way out and marring it.
I am still undecided between a mini 14 and a 30, but I do love the style to match my M1a. I was going the tactical route with the style, but you might have convinced me to go the hardwood route.
Here’s something to consider…
You can purchase a Mini 14 Tactical that comes with the 16” barrel and flash hider and purchase a traditional Ruger made walnut stock, NIB, from Midway for around $120.
To my mind, there’s hardly a better looking Mini 14 setup than a Tactical version with a traditional walnut stock, with the exception of the Samson A-TM folder that has recently been reintroduced into the market. Those go for around $300., but they’re a licensed Ruger accessory and they’re built to last.
Just a few options to think about that will make the Mini uniquely yours.😏
Had both, u will like .223 accuracy better. Also less finicky.
I have an ATI folder. It's cool and all however very difficult to get a good cheek well with it using iron sights. You are still stuck with Ruger rings or a forward mounted optic. ATI does provide pickatiny rail up front which was removed first because you can no longer use irons as it is in the way. Even though it does fold and is very rigged when deployed I still went back to the original stock.
I have the Mini 14 and the Mini 30, both great fun to shoot. If I could only have one I would probably go with the Mini 14 but luckily I have collected both of them.
@@rangerdanger766 I have both in 584 series, I found the Mini 30 to be much nicer out of the box and more accurate, it's never once had any type of feed or ejection issue with all types of ammo. My Mini 14 in comparison was less pleasant to shoot and did have some ejection issues. Comparing the two it was obvious that the Mini 14 was way overgassed with cases being ejected at extreme speeds and distance and a felt recoil that was more than the Mini 30. As a result I fitted a much smaller gas bushing that transformed the rifle, it still throws the cases a long way, but now never leaves the empty case behind by opening the action too soon. Now it shoots as nicely as my Colt AR and I love both of my Mini's. However of the two the 30 is still the more consistently accurate of the two, it shoots the various steel cased Barnaul variants in a tight group that equals what it can do with Remington Corelokt. I'd say the choice between the two for many comes down to which caliber you prefer, which could also be which one you don't have, or the fact you want another rifle in the same caliber that shoots the same ammo as an existing one.
Always on my list. Should've gotten one before things have been inflated. Great lefty shooter. Stainless but I may just grab one just like this before theyre gone
I don't own a gun. I live in Europe and I don't hunt, so it's unlikely I'll have a gun ever. But I appreciate the engineering, the craftmanship and the History around (sometimes) this pieces. I arrived here after I read someone mocking George Clooney for using a Ruger Mini 14 as a sniper's rifle in The American movie. This vid earned a like and a new subscriber. Wel done.
Even in 2022 the Mini (in either the 14 or 30 versions) is still an excellent choice and typically more reliable than the direct impingement operated AR. Overall the factory mags are the best/most reliable choice (in 5 or 20 versions) but I have both heard and read many complaints about the factory produced 10 round mags. No doubt those issues are receiving greater attention due to more states deciding that it's illegal for their residents to own a device with a capacity greater than 10 rounds. About 4 or 5 yrs back, Samson began offering a licensed modern version of the original factory folder made famous by the A-Team and it's worth a look if Mini owners are interested in a more compact option but want to avoid the plastic aesthetic displayed by other stocks 🇺🇸
I have a Mini 14 Tactical with the A-TM stock from Samson and I absolutely LOVE the way it looks and shoots.
The pistol grip and lower aim point with the A-TM brings a whole new dynamic in shoot ability. The control is greatly improved with the introduction of the pistol grip and the flash hider helps reduce flip for faster follow up shots.
It’s really the best configuration for a Mini, IMO.👍🏻
The Samson stock is friggin awsome. They have them stainless and new this year black.
they are not more reliable than an AR lol
Not more reliable that is Fudd lore
Absolutely love my short barreled tactical model and my GF loves hers with the Chevron stock. Look up the mini-14 with the wooden, chevron stock. Absolutely beautiful.
Got a soft rubber stock for mine. Love it so much. Will never sell it.
Couple of years back my older friend in my car club said he had a rifle for sale, went and looked and it was a stainless mini14 with a perfect wood stock. Made in 94 so its a pencil barrel, had maybe 100 rounds ran thru it. I paid 500$. It even has a strut system installed and i also added a Lpvo on original Ruger scope rings. Love it!
great video. really liked it.always wanted a mini 30 but never got the chance...
I have the 300 Blackout, love it.
I am a fan of the Mini 14. I picked up a late 80's version from a police surplus auction. it's stainless steel, birch stocked, and came with 20 round magazine marked "For Law Enforcement use only." I picked up 2 Ruger 5 round mags for it as well.
With the 55 grain ball ammo it will easiy deal with a coyote at 100 yards. It's also fun to shoot. It's like my M1 Carbine, but cheaper and easier to find ammo for.
Mini Thirty also terrific in 7.62x39.
How is it with cheap Tula steel-case?
@@magiccarpetrider4594 Mine occasionally would misfire on Tula while no problems with all the other steel cased ammo I have. However after putting a few hundred rounds down range it's fine. The problem is how far the firing pi protrudes beyond the bolt face with Tula's deep set primers. I assume after some use, my pin now makes it a fraction further forward. From choice I never use Tula anyway, just had some in my ammo collection, there are better choices in steel cased, or perhaps "were" is the word as supplies of Russian ammo dry up with the ban taking effect. Mine is really accurate with the Barnaul made Ammunition, I was really surprised in a recent test I did, shooting 5 round groups with every type of ammo I had on hand, I wasn't doing any better with Remington Corelokt than I was with the Barnaul soft points.
I use my mini thirty for deer hunting and I have had a few light primer strikes with Red Army standard ammo and a few with Tula as well. Luckily not while shooting at deer. I put in a wolf hammer spring a few months ago which seems to have helped with the light primer strikes, though I must admit I haven’t shot tons of rounds testing it. In terms of accuracy, I found my mini thirty likes Tula 154 grain soft points the best, which is funny as they’re about 1/4 the cost of Winchester Power Points, the other type of hunting ammo I’ve managed to find. I’ve got better groups with the 154 grain Tula than anything else. I will say that I’ve never had any issues with American brass case ammo.
@@destroyingdadxx2274 Mine seems to shoot the Barnaul made Silver Bear and straight Barnaul branded ammo as good as anything I've tried including Remington Corelokt, the 125gr Barnaul Soft Points seem like pretty good ammo and group best, although most of the ammo I've tried is pretty similar, nothing horrible accuracy wise. The problem with "soft strikes" is not truly a soft strike problem, it's that the firing pin does not protrude enough through the bolt face to set of some of recessed primers found in steel cased ammo, Tula in particular. Ruger were playing it safe regarding slam fires, or pierced primers on brass cased ammo. A stronger spring can just give a slight edge due to higher impact speed, but if it's a problem buying the after market firing pin that comes further through the bolt face is the solution. Otherwise the firing pin is just getting slammed harder on the back of the bolt harder, but can't be forced out further. I've run Tula through mine again after it having fired 600 rounds, or so and I did not get any FTF's as I did when new, even then it was something like 1 in 10-20. I was considering the longer firing pin, but I'm happy with it now, if I was using the rifle for Self Defense, or Hunting I would not have Tula ammo on board any how, so it's a none issue right now.
I have the ati folding stock with a pistol grip, it's ok but I want to get a classic stock for it.
100%!
Mini 14 rules!
I know it upsets the AR 15 guys, but it is my opinion. Take it or leave it.
I have a few mods on mine.
It will shoot with most AR's.
To each your own.
Watch gel test done with the 55 grain and it is pretty amazing for such a lightweight bullet!!
What more do you need in a semi auto? Excellent platform.
I wish the Springfield M1A1 wasn’t so damn expensive, I should have bought one years ago. I did finally buy a mini 14.
I love my mini 14, but any magazine larger than the 5 rounders it came with, even factory larger magazines, do not feed well for me.
Thanks so much! Such an informative video without all the extra bs footage tat doesn't show you accuracy for anything else important. Well done! I have also seen so many people struggle with the magazine load and unload, yours was smooth as butter!
The mini 14 or SKS (including the Chinese version)? The beautiful thing is you don't have to choose. Get both if you can afford it
Have a Mini-14 Ranch Rifle from '99, it is also chambered in .5.56 NATO although on the receiver, it is printed CAL. .223. Ruger had a target version of the Mini-14 chambered in .223 Remington only. I changed out the wooden stock on my Mini for a black Hogue over molded stock and put a 3X9 variably powered scope on it. The only problem is that it has the thin pencil barrel and not the much improved barrel they make today. It is still a great and fun rifle to shoot and utterly reliable.
Like you video. I own an older model from the 90s . It has a SS barrel and I added a flash suppressor. I only use the stock sights. Is a cool simple rifle and I like it.
My dad has had his mini14 since I was a little boy growing up and he still loves it, thats the first reason I decided to buy me one, every time I shoot it, just brings alot of good memories, I carry it everywhere I go, is always there, is always ready and it wont let you down, just saying…
Mini 14 are great, the only problem I have with them is that they chew up brass. As a reloader, any rounds that I put through a mini 14 are totally trashed. This is the reason that mine sits in storage.
Tapco Gen 2 Poly's with steel insert are GREAT and I've had no PROBLEMS with the new Pro Mags....
Try a $20 dollar Pro Mag 30 Round or even 20 Round AFTER you add a drop of oil and Break it in a little with "Snap Cap" cycling or LIVE in a safe place....
My Pro Mags and Tapco's work as well as my Rugers since 2015.... There's also 1 Straight sittins 20 rounder that was Good for "Practice" and cheap... still got it...
Walnut stock? Maybe hardwood with a walnut finish.
Just like mine, 69GN Sierra is deadly and 5 shots inside a quarter! Love this rifle..
This is a very professional review.
Love mine for all the reasons you highlight. Absolute dream to shoot.
THAT is how you do a review. Sir, thank you for this informative video. I appreciate the info about the 1:9 twist wanting lighter ammo. I did not know that. Thanks.
Liked and subscribed.
My 580 series has the thin barrel profile and not the heavier one most 580 series and up have. I added an accustrut and a couple 1911 recoil buffers and it’s a good shooting rifle that is built like a tank. Love mine.
Sure it's a 580 series?
Copy that.
Maybe they had some left over barrels and had to use them up. I know from talking to others that it did happen
Great video, Allen. All straight and essential info with no garbage.
Great video! Kind of snuck up on me. Wasn't looking for it but popped up in my feed, and I really like Allen's brass-tacks presentation style. 👍
I have mine with the stainless receiver and barrel. That's one aspect that a mini-14 can beat an AR-15 in features. I also prefer the piston gas system of the mini-14 to the direct impingement of the AR-15. The receiver runs cooler and cleaner to simplify maintenance and cleaning.
+1 on the stainless, for the extra it actually costs in the real world, it justifies the overall price far better for me as there are virtually no competitive platforms offering this. For the type of rifle it is and it's intended uses, I really like that benefit.
I own a 2002 (shipped) Mini 14 and have multiple after market stocks that collect dust. I always go back to the wood, and IMO it is the best, nothing is nicer than a wooden stock. I do run a little Nikon P223 scope on it which looks good and is perfect for what I do with it. I have several AR's but truly enjoy shooting my Mini, However I can only shoot it we go to the boonies, at the outdoor range it flings brass two lanes over and pelts everyone. So it is a in the wild kind of gun or before anyone shows up to my right. Love the gun and have had zero issues with it, plus its a classic as far I'm concerned. BTW I also like my 1911's.
San bernadino sheriffs deputies still use the 14 over the ar15 i think thats smart
I have the tactical in .300 blackout. Great rifle.
Could you make a video about .223 Wylde since you talked a bit about 5.56 NATO/.233 Rem here?
I bought a tactical version about 10 years ago with the ATI folding stock package on it . At the time it’ was all the rage . But in hindsight , I wish I’d bought one with the wooden stock .
That birch if I’m not mistaken .
What an excellent, informative, and well paced review! Bravo!
I find it hard to compare the AR with the much simpler Mini 14. I think the mini is a very good all-round and all steel hillbilly rifle that will take a beating in the field and still look good.
I have both platforms, I'm not sure why the debate has to rage on, it seems mostly AR people who can't get over the idea of someone not buying an AR keep it going. IMO they are not direct competitors, the Mini is an all round traditional rifle, that has a lot of character and is fun, while being compact and sweet handling. It's understated looks are to my liking, pulling an AR out when others are around can make you look like some sort of "commando want to be" and can instill unjustified fear in others, meanwhile many who know a little about guns, think you have a Ruger 10/22 in your hands. IMO the AR15 serves different role, people may as well say all bolt action rifles are useless etc. because they are not an AR and have different controls etc. as bash on the Mini. Thank goodness we have such choices, each to their own, buy what you want and be happy and don't worry about what others think.
I just bough one with the tactical folding stock…one of those too good to pass up deals.
I’m currently anxiously awaiting for the conventional stock to arrive in the mail from midway!