I owned one in 2006. It was a solid utility rifle. I have no idea what planet Ruger is on with their current mini 14 prices, they are in no way a 1,000-1200 dollar rifle.
If it was $600.00 or sub 700 I would buy it right now. Ain't no way I am going to spend over 1K on a mini when I can pick up a trustworthy AR from Ruger to Smith and Wesson. Come on, Ruger.
@@danielandrews7028 Totally understand, when you're talking entry level, but for those who already have all those you mentioned, the Mini's are just something different to shoot, I've built 6 AR's alone so I didn't need another.
While I agree these aren't worth $1,200, Ruger is one of the brands I go out of my way to buy used just based on the companies dedication to customer service. I have sent back a Mini-30 that was basically a straight pull bolt action with 4 magazines. Came back working perfectly with 8 magazines that were hand fitted to the rifle. Sent back a Ruger Single 6 with timing issues and got it back in less than a month. I have never, ever, had a bad experience with Ruger Customer Service beyond trying ro request Scope rings for my Mini-14
I agree about their customer service. They once sent me parts for a used Mannlicher stocked Model 77 and didn't charge me for them. When I saw my new SP101 had a poorly fitted crane, they replaced it for free without any argument and paid the shipping both ways. Turnaround time was a fraction of what I've experienced with Taurus.
Pretty much the same with me. I have a Ruger Vaquero in 45 colt. It had an issue where the cylinder would not rotate and it could not be cocked. Ruger said they would have UPS pick it up and send it in for repair. UPS was a no show so I sent it to RUGER myself and for the hassle caused by ups RUGER fixed it (no charge) AND sent me (free of charge) the convertable cylinder for 45 acp . RUGER really came through with flying colors
💥😎Nice Vid & M-14!👍🇺🇸 Why do u think they're So Pricey? U do have to account for inflation..& infl is WAY Up 2day(u can use an inflation Calculator 2C what $700 in 2009 is in 2day's $$). But Still...🤔
Yep, your assessment is correct. Considering what you can get today in AR-15’s, especially from more budget minded companies, there isn’t a whole lot of room for a $1000 Mini-14 anymore. I’m glad I owned a few over the years, and sometimes I get nostalgic about them. Usually when I do, I remember what I didn’t like about them. My main issue to this day are the magazines. So proprietary, there aren’t any third party companies that make reliable magazines. Thanks for your video.
@@austinhuber3131 check mixups video about the mini 30. He met a guy from California. And told him they are legal there as well. 😃 the mini 14 is a great platform
@@santamanone A wood stock isn’t worth double the price to me. I can buy a more than decent AR and a fair amount of ammo to train with before I hit the price of the Mini. I appreciate the Mini-14, but that doesn’t mean it has a place in my small safe.
I remember scoffing at the price of rifles over the years. Looking back, I should have bought every one that I could because now those same rifles cost three times more (if you can find one). Trust me, you will regret those missed opportunities.
Agreed on all counts...especially the comment about the MK 4 pistols. I love Ruger too, but their pricing has moved them into tiers that have a lot of quality competition.
Lucky Gunner is currently running a series on the Mini-14. While the AR platform has eclipsed it, there's something great about a rifle with a classic stock. If ARs were still banned and these were the go-to .223/5.56 prices would be lower because of economy of scale and accuracy would be better than 3MOA. Ironically, the '94 ban contributed to the popularity of the AR platform. People asked "what's so scary about that rifle that they needed to ban it? I should find out for myself." And they found out that a highly modular, medium weight, medium caliber rifle is pretty handy.
These have been used by prison guards in the towers for years, for a reason. Reliable. They aren't meant to be the most tactical guns. They are utility rifles. But, on the ponderosa, you don't want to hear that bolt get racked down range. Never get rid of mine. Uncle left it to me. Wood furniture, baby..
I loved my Mini which bought during the Clinton gun ban at my local Walmart back in the 90s. Great rifle considering AR15s were not an option. I never understood why Ruger didn't adapt the modern version to accept AR mags since they are cheaper an so readily available. The mag prices are insane.
The '94 ban ironically contributed to the AR platform's popularity. Gun owners asked "what's so scary about that rifle that they needed to ban it? I should find out." And then they found out that a modular, medium-power, moderate weight rifle was pretty handy. I think the Mini-14 has different feed lips than a STANAG mag and rocks in like an AK.
The factory magazines are extremely well made like metal AK magazines. The old PMI magazines were sturdy and could be had in stainless steel. Purchase quality and cry once. Factory mags will last a lifetime and all that is needed to freshen the mag up is replace the spring.
That’s like talking people who make AKs to change how the mag goes it cause Ak mags are expensive. They seat in totally differently it’s not comparable lol.
I bought my Ranch in 2001. It's been a nice reliable rifle (Not terribly accurate, but it's still fun!). I have ARs that are "better" rifles, but the Mini-14 has a place in the safe right next to my M1 Garand, M1A and M1 Carbine.
Earlier this year I purchased one. Wood stock. Stainless. $1050. I love the action and the looks of a more traditional rifle. Also like the way it spits out the brass.
I agree. I bought two of them this year. A stainless old school ranch rifle with the ATM Stainless folding stock. I also bought an old prison guard model. I payed $1100 each. Not bad. They work and they aren’t a plastic wonder “carbine”. 👍🏻🤠
I bought a similar model last year. I ended up buying a wooden stock directly from Ruger and their customer service was fantastic. I have not had any issues with the rifle; about as reliable as they come.
@@Shot_Gunner not saying this to be deceitful but you were truly ripped off unless given some higher end optics and or a large amount of ammo to go along with those purchasing prices. I live in anti gun New England where prices are inflated on anything that is popular in free states and legal but I bought a brand new mini 14 ranch wood and stainless for $950 barely a year ago. I see older used models in great condition sell for $800 and any prices higher than that for used minis will likely not sell in my experience. I hope everything works out okay with your rifles though, at least you have the ruger warranty
I have to agree with your take on the price of the Mini-14. I have an older one that I paid about $600 for. $1200+ tax is just too darn much. There are less expensive ways to enjoy the .223 cartridge. I do like the 16 inch barrel though.
@@marsoelflaco5722 Buy quality, cry once, like shoes. They happen to be the best magazines on the market. The only other magazines that I have come across that are close to the Ruger's are the old PMI magazines. They were also made in SS.
@@OccamsToyota2 For certain markets such as food and housing price controls MAY be appropriate if certain criteria are met. For what you are suggesting, bad idea. The free market dictates what the consumer is willing to pay. As long as a certain chattel is selling at a set price, the market is in balance. These chattels are selling off the dealer's shelves as soon as they are received. As a matter of fact, they are backordered most of the time with the fellow I do business with. Don't want to pay the price, simply do not buy whatever it is. Guaranteed, someone else will
If you live in a state that limits the AR platforms, the Mini is the way to go. Whether it is the 14 or the 30, it just looks like Grandpa's old hunting rifle. In 2012 I paid $800 for the ranch version. Sure glad I hung on to it
We ran the 10 Mini-14s Against 10 M16A1s. They were used for USBP qualification each quarter. We had meticulously cleaned and lubed both before the test. They were to be fired for a total of three weeks 60 rounds / day for 15 days x 4 quarters / year without cleaning. The M-16s choked on Thursday of the first week! The Mini-14 were still firing without malfunctions for all four quarters of that year. The actions were a little sticky the 4th quarter, but still functioned well. Seems that gas impingement actions are less reliable that the simple set up of the Mini-14 where no gas or debris enters the action. Paul - I was issued a Mini-14 some years ago and immediately took it to a gunsmith. (The front sight had a “ding” on the top right causing an over hang.). I had the front sight machined square and then had the ramp machined into a Patridge configuration. Then I had the rear aperture opened until the front sight did not change color (If the rear sight is too tight for the shooter’s eyes the front sight will appear lighter in color instead of remaining the same color). It was .125” and, at that time in my life, I needed to have it opened to 160".
I paid $900 for mine a couple of years ago, and I thought that was too much. However, it's probably the closest thing to a Garand I'll ever be able to get my hands on. I love it for what it is. People get all pissy about the accuracy, but as long as it's "minute of bad guy", that's good enough for most applications.
Yes love the action of it that was inspired by garand n m14 etc. I got one around 825$ 5 years ago but was buddies with store so that was a price cut. That’s was also a tactical mini too so definitely a bargain .
Ten years ago I was at Wallyworld walked by the "Sporting Section" low and behold there it was, the Mini14 I hadn't shot in almost 30 years! I had to have it, so I forked over the $786.00 they were asking for it! It was the first real rifle I had ever shot, it's was dad's. Needless to say it had a high sentimental value to it! Still one of if nor my favorite rifle to shoot!
Mixup I bought an early 90’s model of the Mini 14, used , for $500.00 about 5 years ago & absolutely love it. 4 years ago, from a bench @ 100 yds., with 70 year old eyes, I shot a 1 5/8” six shot group with the peep sights! Guess I got a good one.😊 Thanks for another great video!
Gary Matney I agree with you about the accuracy of the re-designed Mini. I also have had similar results, such as yours, with my Mini with the military style peep sights. Bought mine new in 2007 with a Green Mountain laminated stock.
My Y2K rifle LOL, a 190 series stainless ranch with a real accuracy problem as far as my filter went. So she sat in the safe until I became friends with a guy who became a successful gunsmith. He did the trigger just under 3 pounds with a clean break. I cut the barrel at 16.25" and put on a flash hider. That work got it down to 1.5 MOA with 5.56 surplus. Glad I have one from 2000, current valuations of the new rifles are what ever people will pay for it! I agree I would never pull the trigger at these prices.
Me and some other guy got the last two mini-14s when our local walmart was blowing them out for $399 back on 2018. I don't know if it was worth the pre-blowout price (probably) but it sure was worth more than $399. I would have bought both if I arrived a few minutes earlier :)
My dad bought his back when the A-Team TV show was popular. That’s what they used in the show quite a bit. His has an original Ruger folding stock on it. Brings back a lot of childhood memories
Mini 14 was my duty rifle when I was working in Corrections. I remember seeing them on the old A-Team TV Series too. It was a pretty good rifle I thought. I wouldn't mind owning one for personal use but I think $1200 is a bit pricey. I could easily see the 700+ you paid for yours.
I think they look great, and realize they can often be a good answer for certain issues. But whenever I see the price, there’s just too many other fun guns I could get with that much money.
rate if inflation in 25 years is about 2.8. So, in today's money it is appr. $1100-$1200. As you can see price of the gun stays the same, your money just got dirt cheap.
Look at it this way with the sales tax with the inflation eventually what you pay in sales tax you could have bought one of those rifles when they first came out it's like the other day I was in the store I was thinking about buying a candy bar and they wanted two dollars for it after the tax it would it would cost $2.12 when I was 10 years old 60 years ago that candy bar cost 5 cents and there was no sales tax on it later on that same candy bar went up another nickel and no sales tax how much longer can a politicians keep this music playing
With the recent hysteria concerning "assault rifles" and the efforts to ban these " looking scary gun(?)" I figured it might be time to see what's out there that was kind of being overlooked. The Mini-14 fit the bill but the price was pushing it. I went to my local gun shop and found a clean stainless tactical with extra mags for $850. Yes, it went home with me.
I think they get that price b/c it's probably one of the few CA and a couple other state compliant rifles. Else you can get two+ AR15s for that price in different calibers too. So I would leave it to those behind the wire in CA and elsewhere.
I have 2 580 series Mini 14s. One has a foldable Butler Creek stock with open sights. I have never had a feed or extraction issue with either of these. I can't say the same about the AR15 platform. Your videos in the desert country of Nevada are fabulous and your down home presentation is the best. Always look forward to your YT entries so keep up the good work. Thanks!
I myself also have 2 minis ( 581s) one 556 and one 300 blackout. I sold my colt AR to my Dad so it’s in the family etc. My only complaint IS the stocks lol. I lo refer a pistol grip etc or at least a 45% angle . Bought a samsonite stock like ATeam .
I bought my 1st rifles at the beginning of the pandemic. I'm in California so options are limited. I paid $900 for a Mini 14. I paid $280 for a 10/22. My 1st handgun was a GP100 for $700. I have watched the price on all of them go up $100-$300 since then. It's been a crazy ride.
Great review. If you live in a highly restrictive state (like mine), I believe it's better having the 50 state legal (That includes California!) Mini 14, than a very compromised AR that meets state legal requirements. New Mini 14's can be found in the mid to upper $900 range if you exercise patience in your search. And God forbid you have to defend yourself in court, most lawyers will tell you a jury will regard a classic looking rifle (WW ll, John Wayne etc.) more favorably (particularly a wood stocked Mini) over one of those scary black rifles any day.
Would love to see mix-up and Hickock do a collab. My 2 favorite shooters on TH-cam. 2 good ol boys who are no nonsense, but good men, and great at teaching about fire arms.
I always enjoy your videos. I have to agree that $1200 is awfully high. I paid $400 about 20 years ago at Walmart when they sold them. Big 5 charges just over a $1000 for them and I think that's way to much considering what you can spend on a decent AR or comparable rifle.
I love the two I have and bought them in the $800 range. But the other thing is that the price of ALL guns have just gone to insane and nutty levels. Ruger pretty much owns the non-AR niche especially in anti gun states like my home state of CA for those who just don’t want to deal with the insane rules the state comes up with for ARs. So Ruger can pretty much set whatever price they want. I’ve always thought that we need more non AR semi auto rifles in 556/223
I saw one of these at Walmart couple years ago for $599 and I got delayed on the back ground check for no good reason. Went back a week later wondering if I could by it because no one called me and it was gone already ☹️that's when I decided to get my CCL because once you have CCL in Texas they don't do background check every time you want to make a purchase 👍
$1200 bucks? That what they're going for these days? Glad I picked up a used one in like new condition for $400 bucks out the door in 2007. Not the NRA edition.
Always great when you bring out the Mini. I have a Mini-14 and Mini-30 and I really love shooting both of them. Everything you said in the video is spot on. They aren't as accurate as an AR, they aren't as modular as an AR and they cost more than an AR. With that said, they are just more fun (for me) to shoot than the AR. The Mini's and AK's just seem to be a lot of fun when firing them. In regards to the Mini, it could be some nostalgia involved but I didn't get an AK until I was much older. I'm sure you remember the "no commie gun for me" stuff we used to hear years ago. Well, they said the same thing about "plastic guns" and look where we are today. Anyway, it's always great to see a new video from you (and your son) and you're still an excellent shot. Merry Christmas Mixup, and Happy New Year.
I got mine few years ago at the gun show for $640 new. About 4000 rounds later it has never had a stoppage of any kind. I take it to the range, the AR guys laugh, point , they hate it. I hit the same steel targets everytime and mine never jams. The ARs jam all the time, I look at them and smile, man, do they get mad! I know the AR is more accurate on paper, so what? What's coming has nothing to do with paper.
During the late 80s, a buddy of mine owned the stainless version with a folding stock( the A Team version). It was a handy rifle. Sadly, he had to let it go in order to pay off his wife's debt. Nice rifle Mixup98!!
Lmao! I too got a mini 14 tactical and think of paying down debt. Its either the mini or a 16” middy AR. Of which I live in a banned state. The AR would fetch much more money. Its a classic looking one. But all new. Also another AR but is set for shtf set up. What do you guys think?
Chris Baker from The Lucky Gunner just did a similar video- I paid $799 for mine a few years ago, and like you I am not sure I would want to pay todays prices on these... But for Ban states and people who hate ARs but like .223 caliber, they are great rifles. And still cheaper than an M1A :) The "Cal .223" marking literally means ".223 caliber" not .223 remington. I figured that out a long time ago- they did make target models that were only in .223 Remington though.
Outside of the detailed craftsmanship of the furniture, what features makes any rifle valuable? For me it’s accuracy, dependability, and durability. If the rifle shoots straight, doesn’t jam up, made with quality materials, and engineered to last forever, it’s a valuable rifle.
Great video, I can't express enough just how awesome this channel is, definitely underrated. Regarding your thumbnail question, no, it's not worth $1200, but can you put a price on an iconic ww2 style, reliable legend because that's exactly what I paid for mine but that's my opinion. TFB did a video on "Why the mini 14 is better than an AR."
About a year ago a found a standard wood stock mini at a pawn shop in Kingman AZ for $700, according to the serial number it was just 3 years old and in pristine condition! I had to take it home of course!
I remember back in the days, the homies would carry mini 14s in the early to mid 90s, to protect the barrio in East L.A.... My all-time favorite! One day I'll get me one, for my boys to enjoy... Thanks for sharing as always Mr Mixup98 💯💥🤠
@@mixup98 ... I appreciate that Sir, I wish you a happy Merry Christmas to you and your son along with your family... I stopped gangbangin' in the late to early 2000s and the fellas I hanged out with were decent and misunderstood young men, unlike the rivals like Primera Flats and them others that were drug addicts, we didn't allow that, I made an interview with @SlabCityTV, check it out and get an idea where we came from, we'll be doing a second part soon too, God bless and GodSpeed... 💯🤠
@@ChicanoSteve I am so glad to hear that you have stopped gangbangin' and it sounds like you are doing very well. I will check out SlabCityTV and try to find your interview. God bless and a tip of the hat to you, sir!
You'll see me as ChicanoSteve and holding a 1858 Remington Bison 12" gun and a 51 Navy and that's the interview, we working on the second part where I got into cocaine and was a fighter that was invited to train with Fernando Vargas in Big Bear CA, we'll get into it and also our link to Panch Villa and our family in Mexico...
The new marlin lever rifle by Ruger is priced very high in my opinion. I have no idea how they think they’re going to compete against Henry lever actions which are top of the line/excellent customer service and cheaper.
Yes 5.56 is completely safe to use in a Mini 14. 5.56 is a .223 caliber round. Only if one has a Mini 14 Target Rifle, .223 Remington should be used exclusively in those rifles. The receiver on the Mini 14 Target Rifle says 223 Remington and all the other rifles say 223 caliber. Starting with the model 583 or 584, Ruger did update the receiver to read 5.56 NATO. I bought a new Mini 14 a year ago and it was in the $800.00 range at a local gun/pawn shop. Yep I absolutely bought it. They can still be had for a somewhat decent price if one does a bit of looking around.
I love my Mini-14 Ranch and Mini-30. Both have been extremely reliable (I have all factory mags) and decent accuracy as well. With that said I agree they are not worth $1200 each.
I had a fabulous opportunity to buy one second-hand for half the cost of a new one a few years ago, 580 series. The owner had served as an MD doctor in the very early years with the Army Special Forces. He had sighted it in at 75 yards and fired a total of 75 rounds through it. I'll never sell it. $450
Thanks for the video! I don't know whether Ruger has to charge that much in order to make a profit on these rifles or whether Ruger is just marketing the nostalgia. I saw another video about the Mini-14 within the past few days. I commented there that Ruger or someone else needs to create a new version of this rifle. The rifle would need to be able to shoot 2" groups at 100 yards very consistently. The rifle would ideally have a cross-bolt safety to avoid people having to put their fingers inside the trigger guard. Ideally, the rifle would use AR magazines. The rifle would have a sighting system like this one but also have a rail for a scope or a red dot. The rifle would also have a way to mount a light. The rifle would have a regular stock and not look like an AR-15. That rifle wouldn't need a buffer tube. If someone could make that rifle and sell it profitably at $700 to $800, that rifle would sell beautifully. Maybe that kind of rifle couldn't overtake the AR-15, but that rifle would be popular. Most of us don't necessarily want the styling of an AR, but the functionality of an AR is too good to resist.
Alternate take regarding safety. Finger needs to be out of trigger guard until ready to shoot anyway. Current position saves an extraneous motion. Current position worked fine on military rifles for a good many years and a few wars. Just MHO.
Owned one years ago in SS. Only mags that were reliable was the ruger mags there pricey. Its a great little rifle. But that price is 🥴) i litterly put two ar's together for that. I payed $800 for the one i owned and it was in ss. ✝️🇺🇸✝️
I'm waiting for Taurus to break into the rifle market and I would love a .45 G3C.... I've had no issues this far with reliability with any of my G2S, G2C, G3C, and even the GX4.... I do like the double strike for laser training, I'm actually impressed with Taurus, they are moving in a great direction 👍
I own a Mini 30 I bought new in 92'. Great lil' rifle with alot of punch. I wont part with it. I've always intended on adding a Mini 14 to the line up and still haven't. At the current price of them, I wont be either. The AR's will suffice.
Why not have both. I didn't feel complete until I got what I call The Big 3(Mini 14, AR15, and AK 74.) It wasn't till then to get a sense of fulfillment.
Bench accuracy is irrellevant for the Mini. Offhand accuracy or practical accuracy is what counts and you demonstrated it very well. Defensively(???) ability to provide accurate cover fire is a big plus and where the semi-auto action really came into it's own. No need to hit people just keep them away etc. A great asset is the Mini 14.
Excellent review as usual. I found this to be a very accurate and dependable rifle. I purchased mine on sale in 2016. I would never pay what they're asking for, considering what is available on the market today.
@@frankhinkle5772 now just imagine if you had to shoot one in a hurry to stop a dangerous animal or person, you'd probably drop to your knees holding your head. The closer that muzzle is to your face the worse it is.
@@RealDeanWinchester A very good reason to be wearing hearing protection in the field! Any muzzle device would be something of an improvement if it focuses the blast away from the shooter.
Bought a NIB Mini 30 for no other reason than I wanted one. It did not work right out of the box. Returned to Ruger. Returned looking like Ruger replaced EVERY Modular Part on the barreled action with parts from the gaged but not final finished parts bin. At least it goes *CLICK* when I cycle the action and pull the trigger or move the safety to safe or fire. Shooting test comes next. Not feeling the love at this point though.
The limited market demand and economy of scale for .30 Carbine leaves it more expensive than .223, which is a much better cartridge for most purposes. Auto Ordnance make reproduction M1 Carbines if you really want one.
When they were 400USD and a decent brand AR15 type rifle was 800USD they were great truck guns for the poors. Now it's flipped and it's crazy to by a 4 inch MOA gun for more money that a 2 inch MOA AR15 type, that is much more modular. Ruger lost thier minds....
Years and years ago in the 1980's, the A-team years these were like 499. We had one and my father sold it during the Clinton years because they were scared of the assault rifle ban. Wish he had never sold it and passed it down/up to me.
Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Rifle - I Love Mine But Is It Really Worth $1200? I could say the same for my surplus GM Inland 1943 M1 .30 Carbine. I don't love any gun but it is the most fun gun to shoot that I own. It certainly is not worth the high price that is put on it today.
Funny thing is 99.99% of the people complaining about that level of accuracy will never need more accuracy than that because even if they ever get in a SHTF they will never need more than 100 yard accuracy, or themselves are not that accurate! The 2 AR-15's I built combined cost me less than $1200
I like the mini 14 but love the M-14 a2 in 308 i used one in the states, but was issued a TOY TONKA M-16 COLT in vietnam. NO one liked it for such a small round SUPED -UP 22 cal. Pleiku, vietnam.
I probably would not have bought a mini 14 if it weren't for the folding stock. I refused to pull the trigger until I found a tactical under $1,000. Got a blued one for $942 shipped to FFL and $972 OTD. I got the stock for $278 shipped. I'm happy at $1,250 with the folding stock. Without it, it's not something I would feel I needed.
Something to think about. W.D.M. "Karamojo" Bell, African elephant hunter, explorer and adventurer, thought 4" at 100y was fine. As long as the rifle is reliable, how much accuracy do you really need? GI specifications on the 1903, M1 Garand and even the M-16 were for what accuracy level being acceptable? Might surprise you but still 4". Realistically, how far are you shooting?
I'm just speculating, but what may be keepiing the price in the $1000.00 +/- is the demand from shooters in states that have essestially banned AR-15's. In my opinion, it is a bit overpriced. However, unless you shoot 500-1000 rounds a month, or you enjoy doing a lot 20-30 round mag dumps, this rifle will last you a very long time.
I still remember the 1980s when the Mini-14 was a cheaper alternative to the expensive Colt AR-15, FNC, AUG, and Valmet rifles. Now at least in the case of ARs it's the other way around. No way am I going to pay a premium rifle price for a cheap utility rifle with limited features. I don't know what Ruger is doing but they're overcharging for most of their rifles. The 10/22 is another example... they used to be around $200 but now they're closer to $400!
I live in Connecticut and because of the so-called assault weapons ban.. 2014 .. I can't buy an AR.. or a AK ..semi So I purchased a mini about 7 years ago.. I wanted the 762x39 round so I purchased the mini 30.. I really like it the only problem is Russian surplus.. sometimes causes stoppages about every 20th round when it gets dirty after about 150-200 rounds through it .. American eagle brass ammo works perfect... In the way I wish I had purchased the mini-14 then again I do like the mini 30..
I bought a Mini 30 back in 1998 for $650 with scope, synthetic stock and the wood stock also had a 30 round magazines that always jam. It was a great rifle sadly I sold it because I couldn't shoot it in any indoors range and there were no outdoors range near me. Now that I own land and have my own shooting range, I regret ever selling it. Ther is no way in hell I am a paying a thousand dollars for a new one. A few hundreds more and I can get a Ruger Presision rifle.
When you take into account you could get a PC carbine and (one of the follwing) Security 9, Max 9, EC9s for about $900, I'd go with that option. Honest review, good gun, but maybe a little over-priced.
Na. Not worth $1000+. And I have owned 4 of them over the year's. Maybe high $600 to mid $700. The last one I had (about 3 years ago). Was a mini 30. Got it new for about $675. Local gun shop was closing out old stock at year end. I would spend the $1k and put a little more towards a Steyer Aug. Already have a M&P AR.
Shoot, when I first got into the gun business I was buying Mini's for $130 when bought by the dozen. I was throwing them out my door for $165.00. This was back in 1980-81. The price's today are f'ing ridiculous.
In the 1970s I sold my Browning Parabellum that I bought at the U.S. military rod & gun club in Germany to a helicopter crew chief for $125, along with my hand-stiched leather shoulder holster. Our unit XO came by shortly after the transaction and said," "Garrett, you idiot. I'd have given you $150."
Always wanted one, but price was a shock. Also, magazines get expensive. Got the AR556 and about 20 magazines and about 500 rounds for about the same money. Still I know mini 14 is a great rifle.
Love the mini. Its a workhorse with a short barrell that achieves practical accuracy. 2 inch groups is a rabbit head so why is sub MOA needed for 5.56 at 300 yards? Further the gas tube on a AR platform is an extremely week point and is very dirty. Mini 14 will grease up and shoot for decades. Thats what counts
As much as I like many Ruger models, the Mini-14 just isn't one of them. Ruger had serious accuracy problems with many production barrels and Bill Rugers decision to stop hi cap factory magazine sales at one point didn't help. They're way overpriced at $1200.00, with too many castings for that pricepoint. My dollars worth-John in Texas
They are reliable. Never choked one... BUT.... not accurate with the 180 -185 series. Ive had 4. Last one was in the 90s. I knew why the A Team never hit their targets lol. Well made, just wasnt happy with accuracy. My ARs were a big step up.
Ruger could do so much for very cheaply to improve the Mini-14 Factory folder - just contract out to the aftermarket at this point. Redesign - or again use one of the after market gas blocks that are not so sensitive to torque values when reassembling. Mill the ruger ring points as 1913 rail sections. Take the 300bo diameter barrel and use it on the 556 guns - would give (yet another) increase in barrel weight/rigidity. Bring back the GB style rear sights, couple with an adjustable front sight. Factory 40 rounders. Get Mr. T to market it for you.
I liked the Mini-14 better when it was a lower cost alternative to an AR-15, and was more willing to put up with its idiosyncrasies and indifferent accuracy. Mini-14 pricing, as well as AR-15 prices are an object lesson in economies of scale. In general, the more you make of something, the less it costs. The Mini-14 clearly lost to the AR-15 in the contest for America's favorite sporting rifle, so the gun itself as well as everything you buy for it costs more. I love the look and feel of the rifle, but I'm not paying $1,000-1,200 for a new one.
Ive had a few Mini's and for the most part ran n shot ok.... jmo Ruger is charging too much for their stuff now.... Their a good company n back their products but still .. be well.
If I could find a stainless one with the folding stock made in the late 70s early 80s I could see 1200 (in reality I'm guessing 2000+ haven't seen one in years), small price to pay for feeling like B.A. Baracus, ughghhhhhhhhhhhh and I ain't gettin'on no plane...
Bought a stainless Ruger Ranch rifle several years ago, loved it topped it off with a 3‐9‐40 scope, so I've regretted selling it from the day I did, gave 600.00 dollars out the door and it was brand new, now they've doubled in price, love too have another one but can't bring myself to pay that over inflated price, like Ruger firearms have for 40+ years, Ruger has priced the mini out of reach for alot of people including me 🇺🇸👎
Just a couple years ago they were about half the price. I think people started getting a little bored with AR-15's. I think most people who are buying mini-14's today are not looking for something to replace their AR, they want it for the cool factor/nostalgia/collectors appeal. If they just wanted the best rifle for a fight then obviously they're gonna go with an AR-15. At a time when a low end AR-15 costs the same as a mini-14, it makes sense that they have a different group of customers. Because of these things, I think it makes a lot of sense as a business strategy for Ruger to up the price. Anyone who wants them today isn't buying it because of how it compares with other guns, they just like the gun itself and would probably be willing to pay more.
There is no question that it is beautiful, very beautiful in wood stock. But, I don’t know if I can justify a price tag higher than Zastava M70 with Serbian Red wood stock.
![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)
I owned one in 2006. It was a solid utility rifle. I have no idea what planet Ruger is on with their current mini 14 prices, they are in no way a 1,000-1200 dollar rifle.
Agreed, but it comes down to demand and they still remain very popular.
If it was $600.00 or sub 700 I would buy it right now.
Ain't no way I am going to spend over 1K on a mini when I can pick up a trustworthy AR from Ruger to Smith and Wesson.
Come on, Ruger.
That's almost double the price from a few years ago. No idea why they hiked them up so hard.
You can buy a psa ar15, a hunting rifle, a handgun, and probably some ammo depending on what you buy. For sure #1 and 2
@@danielandrews7028 Totally understand, when you're talking entry level, but for those who already have all those you mentioned, the Mini's are just something different to shoot, I've built 6 AR's alone so I didn't need another.
While I agree these aren't worth $1,200, Ruger is one of the brands I go out of my way to buy used just based on the companies dedication to customer service. I have sent back a Mini-30 that was basically a straight pull bolt action with 4 magazines. Came back working perfectly with 8 magazines that were hand fitted to the rifle. Sent back a Ruger Single 6 with timing issues and got it back in less than a month. I have never, ever, had a bad experience with Ruger Customer Service beyond trying ro request Scope rings for my Mini-14
I agree about their customer service. They once sent me parts for a used Mannlicher stocked Model 77 and didn't charge me for them. When I saw my new SP101 had a poorly fitted crane, they replaced it for free without any argument and paid the shipping both ways. Turnaround time was a fraction of what I've experienced with Taurus.
Pretty much the same with me. I have a Ruger Vaquero in 45 colt. It had an issue where the cylinder would not rotate and it could not be cocked. Ruger said they would have UPS pick it up and send it in for repair. UPS was a no show so I sent it to RUGER myself and for the hassle caused by ups RUGER fixed it (no charge) AND sent me (free of charge) the convertable cylinder for 45 acp . RUGER really came through with flying colors
I also had a good experience with Ruger, 20+ years ago. My Police Service Six needed some work, and as I recall, all I paid was shipping both ways.
💥😎Nice Vid & M-14!👍🇺🇸 Why do u think they're So Pricey? U do have to account for inflation..& infl is WAY Up 2day(u can use an inflation Calculator 2C what $700 in 2009 is in 2day's $$). But Still...🤔
Yep, your assessment is correct. Considering what you can get today in AR-15’s, especially from more budget minded companies, there isn’t a whole lot of room for a $1000 Mini-14 anymore. I’m glad I owned a few over the years, and sometimes I get nostalgic about them. Usually when I do, I remember what I didn’t like about them. My main issue to this day are the magazines. So proprietary, there aren’t any third party companies that make reliable magazines. Thanks for your video.
Ruger AR 556 is about 300 less.
There is in California ha ha ha
@@austinhuber3131 check mixups video about the mini 30. He met a guy from California. And told him they are legal there as well. 😃 the mini 14 is a great platform
Yeah you can get a lot of different AR 15s these days for cheaper. But none of them have wood stocks.
@@santamanone
A wood stock isn’t worth double the price to me. I can buy a more than decent AR and a fair amount of ammo to train with before I hit the price of the Mini. I appreciate the Mini-14, but that doesn’t mean it has a place in my small safe.
I remember scoffing at the price of rifles over the years. Looking back, I should have bought every one that I could because now those same rifles cost three times more (if you can find one). Trust me, you will regret those missed opportunities.
I remember seeing the AR's being consistently priced at $1,000+. Now their prices have dropped to around $700. Get them while you can.
Yep. Noticed that as well.
@@portugal5698 Shop smart, my friends, shop smart.👍🏽✌🏽
Agreed on all counts...especially the comment about the MK 4 pistols. I love Ruger too, but their pricing has moved them into tiers that have a lot of quality competition.
Lucky Gunner is currently running a series on the Mini-14. While the AR platform has eclipsed it, there's something great about a rifle with a classic stock. If ARs were still banned and these were the go-to .223/5.56 prices would be lower because of economy of scale and accuracy would be better than 3MOA. Ironically, the '94 ban contributed to the popularity of the AR platform. People asked "what's so scary about that rifle that they needed to ban it? I should find out for myself." And they found out that a highly modular, medium weight, medium caliber rifle is pretty handy.
These have been used by prison guards in the towers for years, for a reason. Reliable. They aren't meant to be the most tactical guns. They are utility rifles. But, on the ponderosa, you don't want to hear that bolt get racked down range. Never get rid of mine. Uncle left it to me. Wood furniture, baby..
I loved my Mini which bought during the Clinton gun ban at my local Walmart back in the 90s. Great rifle considering AR15s were not an option. I never understood why Ruger didn't adapt the modern version to accept AR mags since they are cheaper an so readily available. The mag prices are insane.
I saw one back then at the wal mart , it was $375 . Told my neighbor he bought it later that day.
The '94 ban ironically contributed to the AR platform's popularity. Gun owners asked "what's so scary about that rifle that they needed to ban it? I should find out." And then they found out that a modular, medium-power, moderate weight rifle was pretty handy. I think the Mini-14 has different feed lips than a STANAG mag and rocks in like an AK.
That's exactly why they use proprietary mags-- more profit for Ruger!
The factory magazines are extremely well made like metal AK magazines. The old PMI magazines were sturdy and could be had in stainless steel. Purchase quality and cry once. Factory mags will last a lifetime and all that is needed to freshen the mag up is replace the spring.
That’s like talking people who make AKs to change how the mag goes it cause Ak mags are expensive. They seat in totally differently it’s not comparable lol.
I've had one of these on my bucket list for at least a year. You aren't making it easy to keep my money in my pocket book. Nice content.
They’re fun to shoot “boats”. Had one since late 80s and still use it and is ready to go in my gun safe.
They're fine rifles. If you can truly "afford" it, treat yourself to one.🎅
@@marsoelflaco5722 I literally saw one posted at my LGS today. Black stock. I've always liked them and wanted one.
I bought my Ranch in 2001. It's been a nice reliable rifle (Not terribly accurate, but it's still fun!). I have ARs that are "better" rifles, but the Mini-14 has a place in the safe right next to my M1 Garand, M1A and M1 Carbine.
Earlier this year I purchased one. Wood stock. Stainless. $1050. I love the action and the looks of a more traditional rifle. Also like the way it spits out the brass.
I agree. I bought two of them this year. A stainless old school ranch rifle with the ATM Stainless folding stock. I also bought an old prison guard model. I payed $1100 each. Not bad. They work and they aren’t a plastic wonder “carbine”. 👍🏻🤠
I bought a similar model last year. I ended up buying a wooden stock directly from Ruger and their customer service was fantastic. I have not had any issues with the rifle; about as reliable as they come.
Me too. It throws brass like an Olympion. Hilarious.
@@Shot_Gunner not saying this to be deceitful but you were truly ripped off unless given some higher end optics and or a large amount of ammo to go along with those purchasing prices. I live in anti gun New England where prices are inflated on anything that is popular in free states and legal but I bought a brand new mini 14 ranch wood and stainless for $950 barely a year ago. I see older used models in great condition sell for $800 and any prices higher than that for used minis will likely not sell in my experience. I hope everything works out okay with your rifles though, at least you have the ruger warranty
I have to agree with your take on the price of the Mini-14. I have an older one that I paid about $600 for. $1200+ tax is just too darn much. There are less expensive ways to enjoy the .223 cartridge.
I do like the 16 inch barrel though.
The occasionally go on sale for around $900 at some of the local stores.
I bought mine, new, in the late 90's for $575. It's great. Accurate enough, and reliable. Just wish that Ruger would make more affordable magazines.
@@marsoelflaco5722 Buy quality, cry once, like shoes. They happen to be the best magazines on the market. The only other magazines that I have come across that are close to the Ruger's are the old PMI magazines. They were also made in SS.
Those values should be restored via price controls, imho. I'm tired of my generation getting screwed by the so-called "free market."
@@OccamsToyota2 For certain markets such as food and housing price controls MAY be appropriate if certain criteria are met. For what you are suggesting, bad idea. The free market dictates what the consumer is willing to pay. As long as a certain chattel is selling at a set price, the market is in balance. These chattels are selling off the dealer's shelves as soon as they are received. As a matter of fact, they are backordered most of the time with the fellow I do business with. Don't want to pay the price, simply do not buy whatever it is. Guaranteed, someone else will
If you live in a state that limits the AR platforms, the Mini is the way to go. Whether it is the 14 or the 30, it just looks like Grandpa's old hunting rifle. In 2012 I paid $800 for the ranch version. Sure glad I hung on to it
We ran the 10 Mini-14s Against 10 M16A1s. They were used for USBP qualification each quarter. We had meticulously cleaned and lubed both before the test. They were to be fired for a total of three weeks 60 rounds / day for 15 days x 4 quarters / year without cleaning. The M-16s choked on Thursday of the first week! The Mini-14 were still firing without malfunctions for all four quarters of that year. The actions were a little sticky the 4th quarter, but still functioned well. Seems that gas impingement actions are less reliable that the simple set up of the Mini-14 where no gas or debris enters the action.
Paul - I was issued a Mini-14 some years ago and immediately took it to a gunsmith. (The front sight had a “ding” on the top right causing an over hang.). I had the front sight machined square and then had the ramp machined into a Patridge configuration. Then I had the rear aperture opened until the front sight did not change color (If the rear sight is too tight for the shooter’s eyes the front sight will appear lighter in color instead of remaining the same color). It was .125” and, at that time in my life, I needed to have it opened to 160".
I paid $900 for mine a couple of years ago, and I thought that was too much. However, it's probably the closest thing to a Garand I'll ever be able to get my hands on. I love it for what it is. People get all pissy about the accuracy, but as long as it's "minute of bad guy", that's good enough for most applications.
Agreed. Most people don't need a tack driver, they want a thug hammer.
@@marsoelflaco5722 “ thug hammer” love it lol!! Yea get a bolt action for a tack driver I mean!!
Yes love the action of it that was inspired by garand n m14 etc. I got one around 825$ 5 years ago but was buddies with store so that was a price cut. That’s was also a tactical mini too so definitely a bargain .
Minute of bad guy is the correct standard for a fighting rifle
I worked with mine until I got used to it. I'm accurate af with it. haha
Ten years ago I was at Wallyworld walked by the "Sporting Section" low and behold there it was, the Mini14 I hadn't shot in almost 30 years! I had to have it, so I forked over the $786.00 they were asking for it! It was the first real rifle I had ever shot, it's was dad's. Needless to say it had a high sentimental value to it! Still one of if nor my favorite rifle to shoot!
Mixup I bought an early 90’s model of the Mini 14, used , for $500.00 about 5 years ago & absolutely love it. 4 years ago, from a bench @ 100 yds., with 70 year old eyes, I shot a 1 5/8” six shot group with the peep sights!
Guess I got a good one.😊 Thanks
for another great video!
They are accurate rifles, not tack drivers, but pretty good.
Gary Matney I agree with you about the accuracy of the re-designed Mini. I also have had similar results, such as yours, with my Mini with the military style peep sights. Bought mine new in 2007 with a Green Mountain laminated stock.
Horrible prices these days.
My Y2K rifle LOL, a 190 series stainless ranch with a real accuracy problem as far as my filter went. So she sat in the safe until I became friends with a guy who became a successful gunsmith. He did the trigger just under 3 pounds with a clean break. I cut the barrel at 16.25" and put on a flash hider. That work got it down to 1.5 MOA with 5.56 surplus. Glad I have one from 2000, current valuations of the new rifles are what ever people will pay for it! I agree I would never pull the trigger at these prices.
Me and some other guy got the last two mini-14s when our local walmart was blowing them out for $399 back on 2018. I don't know if it was worth the pre-blowout price (probably) but it sure was worth more than $399. I would have bought both if I arrived a few minutes earlier :)
My dad bought his back when the A-Team TV show was popular. That’s what they used in the show quite a bit. His has an original Ruger folding stock on it. Brings back a lot of childhood memories
I have one also. But there's weren't very accurate never hit anyone.lol
Mini 14 was my duty rifle when I was working in Corrections. I remember seeing them on the old A-Team TV Series too. It was a pretty good rifle I thought. I wouldn't mind owning one for personal use but I think $1200 is a bit pricey. I could easily see the 700+ you paid for yours.
Hello James. When I worked corrections in northeastern Nevada we also used the Mini-14. Thank you for watching and also for your service.
Agreed, fine rifle. I guess Ruger gets away with the price because people are paying for it.
@@mixup98 Happy Thanksgiving to the mix family. Wanted to let you know MidwayUSA has the Samson Hannibal rails right now for $82. Love mine.
I think they look great, and realize they can often be a good answer for certain issues. But whenever I see the price, there’s just too many other fun guns I could get with that much money.
I bought my ranch mini 30 about 25 years ago for just over $400.00. Excellent brush gun and fun to shoot. My go to home defense weapon.
rate if inflation in 25 years is about 2.8. So, in today's money it is appr. $1100-$1200. As you can see price of the gun stays the same, your money just got dirt cheap.
@@sb8804 it sure has, but I'm glad I bought it years ago when ammo was cheaper.
Look at it this way with the sales tax with the inflation eventually what you pay in sales tax you could have bought one of those rifles when they first came out it's like the other day I was in the store I was thinking about buying a candy bar and they wanted two dollars for it after the tax it would it would cost $2.12 when I was 10 years old 60 years ago that candy bar cost 5 cents and there was no sales tax on it later on that same candy bar went up another nickel and no sales tax how much longer can a politicians keep this music playing
Its like they just keep rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic.
With the recent hysteria concerning "assault rifles" and the efforts to ban these " looking scary gun(?)" I figured it might be time to see what's out there that was kind of being overlooked. The Mini-14 fit the bill but the price was pushing it. I went to my local gun shop and found a clean stainless tactical with extra mags for $850. Yes, it went home with me.
What is the serial number it lets me know the year made why I’m asking
Lucky Gunner just did a 2 part video on why the Mini just won't die. It was a good watch honestly.
"I *am* Chris Baker." Yes, who else would you be?
I think they get that price b/c it's probably one of the few CA and a couple other state compliant rifles. Else you can get two+ AR15s for that price in different calibers too. So I would leave it to those behind the wire in CA and elsewhere.
I have 2 580 series Mini 14s. One has a foldable Butler Creek stock with open sights. I have never had a feed or extraction issue with either of these. I can't say the same about the AR15 platform. Your videos in the desert country of Nevada are fabulous and your down home presentation is the best. Always look forward to your YT entries so keep up the good work. Thanks!
I myself also have 2 minis ( 581s) one 556 and one 300 blackout. I sold my colt AR to my Dad so it’s in the family etc. My only complaint IS the stocks lol. I lo refer a pistol grip etc or at least a 45% angle . Bought a samsonite stock like ATeam .
Mine has never failed, about 4000 rounds. Never
I bought my 1st rifles at the beginning of the pandemic. I'm in California so options are limited. I paid $900 for a Mini 14. I paid $280 for a 10/22. My 1st handgun was a GP100 for $700. I have watched the price on all of them go up $100-$300 since then. It's been a crazy ride.
Great review. If you live in a highly restrictive state (like mine), I believe it's better having the 50 state legal (That includes California!) Mini 14, than a very compromised AR that meets state legal requirements. New Mini 14's can be found in the mid to upper $900 range if you exercise patience in your search. And God forbid you have to defend yourself in court, most lawyers will tell you a jury will regard a classic looking rifle (WW ll, John Wayne etc.) more favorably (particularly a wood stocked Mini) over one of those scary black rifles any day.
Would love to see mix-up and Hickock do a collab. My 2 favorite shooters on TH-cam. 2 good ol boys who are no nonsense, but good men, and great at teaching about fire arms.
I always enjoy your videos. I have to agree that $1200 is awfully high. I paid $400 about 20 years ago at Walmart when they sold them. Big 5 charges just over a $1000 for them and I think that's way to much considering what you can spend on a decent AR or comparable rifle.
I love the two I have and bought them in the $800 range. But the other thing is that the price of ALL guns have just gone to insane and nutty levels. Ruger pretty much owns the non-AR niche especially in anti gun states like my home state of CA for those who just don’t want to deal with the insane rules the state comes up with for ARs. So Ruger can pretty much set whatever price they want. I’ve always thought that we need more non AR semi auto rifles in 556/223
Isn’t there another company that makes something like this though?
I saw one of these at Walmart couple years ago for $599 and I got delayed on the back ground check for no good reason. Went back a week later wondering if I could by it because no one called me and it was gone already ☹️that's when I decided to get my CCL because once you have CCL in Texas they don't do background check every time you want to make a purchase 👍
$1200 bucks? That what they're going for these days? Glad I picked up a used one in like new condition for $400 bucks out the door in 2007. Not the NRA edition.
Always great when you bring out the Mini. I have a Mini-14 and Mini-30 and I really love shooting both of them. Everything you said in the video is spot on. They aren't as accurate as an AR, they aren't as modular as an AR and they cost more than an AR. With that said, they are just more fun (for me) to shoot than the AR. The Mini's and AK's just seem to be a lot of fun when firing them. In regards to the Mini, it could be some nostalgia involved but I didn't get an AK until I was much older. I'm sure you remember the "no commie gun for me" stuff we used to hear years ago. Well, they said the same thing about "plastic guns" and look where we are today. Anyway, it's always great to see a new video from you (and your son) and you're still an excellent shot. Merry Christmas Mixup, and Happy New Year.
The mini is our American AK. Old school big bolt jarring action but just simple and reliable
@@burtonkephart6239
Yeah, I love it. They are a blast.
I got mine few years ago at the gun show for $640 new. About 4000 rounds later it has never had a stoppage of any kind. I take it to the range, the AR guys laugh, point , they hate it. I hit the same steel targets everytime and mine never jams. The ARs jam all the time, I look at them and smile, man, do they get mad! I know the AR is more accurate on paper, so what? What's coming has nothing to do with paper.
During the late 80s, a buddy of mine owned the stainless version with a folding stock( the A Team version). It was a handy rifle. Sadly, he had to let it go in order to pay off his wife's debt. Nice rifle Mixup98!!
Shoulda sold the wife and kept the Mini...
@@arthurchadwell9267 Damn it!!! You took the words right out of my mouth!!!!!👍
Lmao! I too got a mini 14 tactical and think of paying down debt. Its either the mini or a 16” middy AR. Of which I live in a banned state. The AR would fetch much more money. Its a classic looking one. But all new. Also another AR but is set for shtf set up. What do you guys think?
I solved that problem nearly 21 years ago. I got divorced and never looked back.
Chris Baker from The Lucky Gunner just did a similar video- I paid $799 for mine a few years ago, and like you I am not sure I would want to pay todays prices on these... But for Ban states and people who hate ARs but like .223 caliber, they are great rifles. And still cheaper than an M1A :) The "Cal .223" marking literally means ".223 caliber" not .223 remington. I figured that out a long time ago- they did make target models that were only in .223 Remington though.
always love the star trek beam in Scotty.
I was very close to buying the new tactical model for $1200.00 … I’d rather buy two more S&W Sport 2 AR 15’s .
Outside of the detailed craftsmanship of the furniture, what features makes any rifle valuable? For me it’s accuracy, dependability, and durability. If the rifle shoots straight, doesn’t jam up, made with quality materials, and engineered to last forever, it’s a valuable rifle.
Great video, I can't express enough just how awesome this channel is, definitely underrated. Regarding your thumbnail question, no, it's not worth $1200, but can you put a price on an iconic ww2 style, reliable legend because that's exactly what I paid for mine but that's my opinion. TFB did a video on "Why the mini 14 is better than an AR."
About a year ago a found a standard wood stock mini at a pawn shop in Kingman AZ for $700, according to the serial number it was just 3 years old and in pristine condition! I had to take it home of course!
👍😎
I remember back in the days, the homies would carry mini 14s in the early to mid 90s, to protect the barrio in East L.A.... My all-time favorite! One day I'll get me one, for my boys to enjoy... Thanks for sharing as always Mr Mixup98 💯💥🤠
And thank you for watching our videos. Have a great weekend and a Merry Christmas!
@@mixup98 ... I appreciate that Sir, I wish you a happy Merry Christmas to you and your son along with your family... I stopped gangbangin' in the late to early 2000s and the fellas I hanged out with were decent and misunderstood young men, unlike the rivals like Primera Flats and them others that were drug addicts, we didn't allow that, I made an interview with @SlabCityTV, check it out and get an idea where we came from, we'll be doing a second part soon too, God bless and GodSpeed... 💯🤠
@@ChicanoSteve I am so glad to hear that you have stopped gangbangin' and it sounds like you are doing very well. I will check out SlabCityTV and try to find your interview. God bless and a tip of the hat to you, sir!
You'll see me as ChicanoSteve and holding a 1858 Remington Bison 12" gun and a 51 Navy and that's the interview, we working on the second part where I got into cocaine and was a fighter that was invited to train with Fernando Vargas in Big Bear CA, we'll get into it and also our link to Panch Villa and our family in Mexico...
Prices skyrocketed after the pandemic. Pre pandemic they were about $900 and I still thought it was too much.
If the Mini-14 good enough for the A-Team it’s good enough for me.
The new marlin lever rifle by Ruger is priced very high in my opinion. I have no idea how they think they’re going to compete against Henry lever actions which are top of the line/excellent customer service and cheaper.
Yes 5.56 is completely safe to use in a Mini 14. 5.56 is a .223 caliber round. Only if one has a Mini 14 Target Rifle, .223 Remington should be used exclusively in those rifles. The receiver on the Mini 14 Target Rifle says 223 Remington and all the other rifles say 223 caliber. Starting with the model 583 or 584, Ruger did update the receiver to read 5.56 NATO.
I bought a new Mini 14 a year ago and it was in the $800.00 range at a local gun/pawn shop. Yep I absolutely bought it. They can still be had for a somewhat decent price if one does a bit of looking around.
In the older models it only. 223
I agree 100%. They are going for right at $1000.00 in my location. Still too expensive.
1000 is a bargain. Sounds like a lot but in today's market 1000 is not unreasonable all things considered.
Bought mine day before covid lockdown started for $750. Took a leap of faith that value would go up. Got lucky and it’s 1200 now.
I love my Mini-14 Ranch and Mini-30. Both have been extremely reliable (I have all factory mags) and decent accuracy as well. With that said I agree they are not worth $1200 each.
Love this review and the weapon.i own one as well and I think I paid 500ish many years ago but 1200 is too much in my mind ..
With the AR556 running around $800, very hard to justify $400 more for the Mini-14. Now, a Mini-30 for $600, that would be a go.
Back in 07 they were $700. Darn inflation
I had a fabulous opportunity to buy one second-hand for half the cost of a new one a few years ago, 580 series. The owner had served as an MD doctor in the very early years with the Army Special Forces. He had sighted it in at 75 yards and fired a total of 75 rounds through it. I'll never sell it. $450
👍😎
Hate the damned peep sight on mine but to lazy to change it.
Thanks for the video!
I don't know whether Ruger has to charge that much in order to make a profit on these rifles or whether Ruger is just marketing the nostalgia. I saw another video about the Mini-14 within the past few days. I commented there that Ruger or someone else needs to create a new version of this rifle. The rifle would need to be able to shoot 2" groups at 100 yards very consistently. The rifle would ideally have a cross-bolt safety to avoid people having to put their fingers inside the trigger guard. Ideally, the rifle would use AR magazines. The rifle would have a sighting system like this one but also have a rail for a scope or a red dot. The rifle would also have a way to mount a light. The rifle would have a regular stock and not look like an AR-15. That rifle wouldn't need a buffer tube. If someone could make that rifle and sell it profitably at $700 to $800, that rifle would sell beautifully. Maybe that kind of rifle couldn't overtake the AR-15, but that rifle would be popular. Most of us don't necessarily want the styling of an AR, but the functionality of an AR is too good to resist.
Alternate take regarding safety. Finger needs to be out of trigger guard until ready to shoot anyway. Current position saves an extraneous motion. Current position worked fine on military rifles for a good many years and a few wars. Just MHO.
@@patrickgriffitt6551 I still like the cross-bolt safety more, but your rationale for the current position is good.
@@VTPSTTU Yes sir. Both are good for me. I was simply stating an alternate view. Thank you for replying.
Owned one years ago in SS. Only mags that were reliable was the ruger mags there pricey. Its a great little rifle. But that price is 🥴) i litterly put two ar's together for that. I payed $800 for the one i owned and it was in ss. ✝️🇺🇸✝️
Yes, they can be easily built for much less. I much prefer an AR and built several of them before getting exactly what I wanted.
I'm waiting for Taurus to break into the rifle market and I would love a .45 G3C.... I've had no issues this far with reliability with any of my G2S, G2C, G3C, and even the GX4.... I do like the double strike for laser training, I'm actually impressed with Taurus, they are moving in a great direction 👍
Have a taurus 410. Great shotgun. Also own a 380. Only 2 from that house I own, but rlreliable.
I own a Mini 30 I bought new in 92'. Great lil' rifle with alot of punch. I wont part with it. I've always intended on adding a Mini 14 to the line up and still haven't. At the current price of them, I wont be either. The AR's will suffice.
Why not have both. I didn't feel complete until I got what I call The Big 3(Mini 14, AR15, and AK 74.) It wasn't till then to get a sense of fulfillment.
Bench accuracy is irrellevant for the Mini. Offhand accuracy or practical accuracy is what counts and you demonstrated it very well. Defensively(???) ability to provide accurate cover fire is a big plus and where the semi-auto action really came into it's own. No need to hit people just keep them away etc. A great asset is the Mini 14.
The rifle is quite accurate, iron sights, offhand out to 100 yrds. If it's all you have, it will serve you well for home/property defense.
My son gave me a mini 30 for my birthday this year
Excellent review as usual. I found this to be a very accurate and dependable rifle. I purchased mine on sale in 2016. I would never pay what they're asking for, considering what is available on the market today.
What did you pay?
@@johnw1954 $599 + tax on sale
I skipped the mini 14 and bought a M1a. Excellent content appreciate your channel 👍 and have a great day.
The worst thing for me about the mini 14 has always been the noise, shortening the barrel just makes it worse, as you have learned.
There's a guy at our range that shoots one, and the report is brutal. Everyone else stops shooting until he finishes.
@@frankhinkle5772 now just imagine if you had to shoot one in a hurry to stop a dangerous animal or person, you'd probably drop to your knees holding your head. The closer that muzzle is to your face the worse it is.
That's why I bought the 18 1/2" barrel and not the 16" barrel. It does help the noise some. That's true with AR15's too.
@@lucus4485 you can shoot a 20" barrel without auditory nerve pain though. It may ring but it won't disable you.
@@RealDeanWinchester A very good reason to be wearing hearing protection in the field! Any muzzle device would be something of an improvement if it focuses the blast away from the shooter.
Bought a NIB Mini 30 for no other reason than I wanted one. It did not work right out of the box. Returned to Ruger. Returned looking like Ruger replaced EVERY Modular Part on the barreled action with parts from the gaged but not final finished parts bin. At least it goes *CLICK* when I cycle the action and pull the trigger or move the safety to safe or fire. Shooting test comes next. Not feeling the love at this point though.
I agree with your assessment. Now if Ruger could make a carbine chambered in... lets say, .30 M1.... I'd be willing to open my wallet.
I agree with you, but .30 is not as easy to find these days or cheap when you do.
The limited market demand and economy of scale for .30 Carbine leaves it more expensive than .223, which is a much better cartridge for most purposes.
Auto Ordnance make reproduction M1 Carbines if you really want one.
When they were 400USD and a decent brand AR15 type rifle was 800USD they were great truck guns for the poors. Now it's flipped and it's crazy to by a 4 inch MOA gun for more money that a 2 inch MOA AR15 type, that is much more modular. Ruger lost thier minds....
I had a Mini-30 and hated it because it would run any steel case ammo reliably.
Years and years ago in the 1980's, the A-team years these were like 499. We had one and my father sold it during the Clinton years because they were scared of the assault rifle ban. Wish he had never sold it and passed it down/up to me.
Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Rifle - I Love Mine But Is It Really Worth $1200?
I could say the same for my surplus GM Inland 1943 M1 .30 Carbine. I don't love any gun but it is the most fun gun to shoot that I own. It certainly is not worth the high price that is put on it today.
Funny thing is 99.99% of the people complaining about that level of accuracy will never need more accuracy than that because even if they ever get in a SHTF they will never need more than 100 yard accuracy, or themselves are not that accurate!
The 2 AR-15's I built combined cost me less than $1200
I like the mini 14 but love the M-14 a2 in 308 i used one in the states, but was issued a TOY TONKA M-16 COLT in vietnam. NO one liked it for such a small round SUPED -UP 22 cal. Pleiku, vietnam.
I probably would not have bought a mini 14 if it weren't for the folding stock. I refused to pull the trigger until I found a tactical under $1,000. Got a blued one for $942 shipped to FFL and $972 OTD. I got the stock for $278 shipped. I'm happy at $1,250 with the folding stock. Without it, it's not something I would feel I needed.
Bought my 2 years ago for 700
Something to think about. W.D.M. "Karamojo" Bell, African elephant hunter, explorer and adventurer, thought 4" at 100y was fine. As long as the rifle is reliable, how much accuracy do you really need?
GI specifications on the 1903, M1 Garand and even the M-16 were for what accuracy level being acceptable? Might surprise you but still 4".
Realistically, how far are you shooting?
I'm just speculating, but what may be keepiing the price in the $1000.00 +/- is the demand from shooters in states that have essestially banned AR-15's. In my opinion, it is a bit overpriced. However, unless you shoot 500-1000 rounds a month, or you enjoy doing a lot 20-30 round mag dumps, this rifle will last you a very long time.
I still remember the 1980s when the Mini-14 was a cheaper alternative to the expensive Colt AR-15, FNC, AUG, and Valmet rifles. Now at least in the case of ARs it's the other way around. No way am I going to pay a premium rifle price for a cheap utility rifle with limited features. I don't know what Ruger is doing but they're overcharging for most of their rifles. The 10/22 is another example... they used to be around $200 but now they're closer to $400!
I live in Connecticut and because of the so-called assault weapons ban.. 2014 .. I can't buy an AR.. or a AK ..semi
So I purchased a mini about 7 years ago.. I wanted the 762x39 round so I purchased the mini 30.. I really like it the only problem is Russian surplus.. sometimes causes stoppages about every 20th round when it gets dirty after about 150-200 rounds through it .. American eagle brass ammo works perfect... In the way I wish I had purchased the mini-14 then again I do like the mini 30..
I bought a Mini 30 back in 1998 for $650 with scope, synthetic stock and the wood stock also had a 30 round magazines that always jam. It was a great rifle sadly I sold it because I couldn't shoot it in any indoors range and there were no outdoors range near me.
Now that I own land and have my own shooting range, I regret ever selling it. Ther is no way in hell I am a paying a thousand dollars for a new one. A few hundreds more and I can get a Ruger Presision rifle.
In a word: NO! $500 max! Wood is cheap and should not cost more than Ruger 10/22
When you take into account you could get a PC carbine and (one of the follwing) Security 9, Max 9, EC9s for about $900, I'd go with that option. Honest review, good gun, but maybe a little over-priced.
Na. Not worth $1000+. And I have owned 4 of them over the year's. Maybe high $600 to mid $700. The last one I had (about 3 years ago). Was a mini 30. Got it new for about $675. Local gun shop was closing out old stock at year end. I would spend the $1k and put a little more towards a Steyer Aug. Already have a M&P AR.
Shoot, when I first got into the gun business I was buying Mini's for $130 when bought by the dozen. I was throwing them out my door for $165.00. This was back in 1980-81. The price's today are f'ing ridiculous.
In the 1970s I sold my Browning Parabellum that I bought at the U.S. military rod & gun club in Germany to a helicopter crew chief for $125, along with my hand-stiched leather shoulder holster. Our unit XO came by shortly after the transaction and said," "Garrett, you idiot. I'd have given you $150."
Slapping yourself for selling a gun is a lot better than doing the same for getting married twice. 🤣
👍😁
Always wanted one, but price was a shock. Also, magazines get expensive. Got the AR556 and about 20 magazines and about 500 rounds for about the same money. Still I know mini 14 is a great rifle.
Love the mini.
Its a workhorse with a short barrell that achieves practical accuracy.
2 inch groups is a rabbit head so why is sub MOA needed for 5.56 at 300 yards?
Further the gas tube on a AR platform is an extremely week point and is very dirty.
Mini 14 will grease up and shoot for decades. Thats what counts
As much as I like many Ruger models, the Mini-14 just isn't one of them. Ruger had serious accuracy problems with many production barrels and Bill Rugers decision to stop hi cap factory magazine sales at one point didn't help. They're way overpriced at $1200.00, with too many castings for that pricepoint. My dollars worth-John in Texas
They are reliable. Never choked one...
BUT.... not accurate with the 180 -185 series. Ive had 4. Last one was in the 90s. I knew why the A Team never hit their targets lol.
Well made, just wasnt happy with accuracy. My ARs were a big step up.
Ruger could do so much for very cheaply to improve the Mini-14
Factory folder - just contract out to the aftermarket at this point.
Redesign - or again use one of the after market gas blocks that are not so sensitive to torque values when reassembling.
Mill the ruger ring points as 1913 rail sections.
Take the 300bo diameter barrel and use it on the 556 guns - would give (yet another) increase in barrel weight/rigidity.
Bring back the GB style rear sights, couple with an adjustable front sight.
Factory 40 rounders.
Get Mr. T to market it for you.
I liked the Mini-14 better when it was a lower cost alternative to an AR-15, and was more willing to put up with its idiosyncrasies and indifferent accuracy. Mini-14 pricing, as well as AR-15 prices are an object lesson in economies of scale. In general, the more you make of something, the less it costs. The Mini-14 clearly lost to the AR-15 in the contest for America's favorite sporting rifle, so the gun itself as well as everything you buy for it costs more. I love the look and feel of the rifle, but I'm not paying $1,000-1,200 for a new one.
Ive had a few Mini's and for the most part ran n shot ok.... jmo Ruger is charging too much for their stuff now.... Their a good company n back their products but still .. be well.
If I could find a stainless one with the folding stock made in the late 70s early 80s I could see 1200 (in reality I'm guessing 2000+ haven't seen one in years), small price to pay for feeling like B.A. Baracus, ughghhhhhhhhhhhh and I ain't gettin'on no plane...
Bought a stainless Ruger Ranch rifle several years ago, loved it topped it off with a 3‐9‐40 scope, so I've regretted selling it from the day I did, gave 600.00 dollars out the door and it was brand new, now they've doubled in price, love too have another one but can't bring myself to pay that over inflated price, like Ruger firearms have for 40+ years, Ruger has priced the mini out of reach for alot of people including me 🇺🇸👎
Just a couple years ago they were about half the price. I think people started getting a little bored with AR-15's. I think most people who are buying mini-14's today are not looking for something to replace their AR, they want it for the cool factor/nostalgia/collectors appeal. If they just wanted the best rifle for a fight then obviously they're gonna go with an AR-15. At a time when a low end AR-15 costs the same as a mini-14, it makes sense that they have a different group of customers. Because of these things, I think it makes a lot of sense as a business strategy for Ruger to up the price. Anyone who wants them today isn't buying it because of how it compares with other guns, they just like the gun itself and would probably be willing to pay more.
LOVE IT!
That sound of gun fire, I thought I was watching a "CLASSIC WESTERN" movie. Thanks!
There is no question that it is beautiful, very beautiful in wood stock. But, I don’t know if I can justify a price tag higher than Zastava M70 with Serbian Red wood stock.