Can't believe I watched an hour long video, about something I've done hundreds of times, that was interesting and informative...You sir, are a master at instruction.
I was thinking the same thing, I've done this plenty of times and the only thing he does different than me is add grease and somehow I still found this video interesting. I have to be honest though, I had to watch this video twice because I fell asleep watching it the first time.
Both my grandpas were war veterans but died when I was very young. This kinda feels like one of them sitting down with me and passing down some serious knowledge.
Good morning Sir. As the owner of Mini 14 and 30, I appreciate the time and effort you've put into your videos. You are my reference for all things Mini! Subscribed 🙂
Just like to reiterate - GunBlue is THE youtube gun guy I refer everyone too. No BS, no nonsense, no politics, just knowledge. He's taught me more about guns than I learned on my own in 20 years by cutting through the BS and dropping knowledge. Thanks again! Also, his dog is cute as heck.
I just bought a new Mini-14 and want to thank you for this detailed and very informative video. I now feel confident that I can take care of my Ruger. Well done sir.
I agree...I’ve learned more about this rifle in an hour and 10 minutes than ever expected! Excellent job explaining the process and even better...he’s concerned about us saving our money for our next purchase! 👍🏻😘
This is not only the best Mini 14 instructional video I've ever seen, but it also gave me that childhood quality time with Grandpa feeling. Thank you so much sir. God bless.
I liked this video as well. This is the last rifle my grandmother and I went shooting with. He is the one who taught me how to shoot and everything about firearms.
I have one which I purchased in 1976 and it has" Made in the 200th year of American Liberty" stamped on the side of it. I went to work for the prison system in Arkansas in 1983 and found that they used these guns and they worked great when cleaned properly. I found also that many other agencies have the same guns and the one I have the earlier sights on it, but the company changed them later on the newer ones. My gun is highly accurate and I have killed squirrels and snakes with it. I use to bring my own cleaning kit to work to clean the state guns when I worked in a tower where the guns was kept along with the Remington 870 shotguns.
Thank you very much for this video. I think my mini 14 will last much longer thanks to you, I just got it used (1982 model) and had plans on cleaning it and the methods I was about to use would have most likely done more harm than good. I appreciate the history lesson too as well as the tips and tricks. I love this gun!
I'm in my 60's and have seen and read many things. I really don't know how I stumbled on this video, but as retired military, it brought back a lot of memories, some good, some not so much. I wish the younger generation would learn from experience...not believing that the latest, greatest products on the market are superior. Frog Lube vs Mobil 1 and auto grease is a no brainer. Waste your money if you want, but for all the money I've saved over the years, I have a lot more to spend on ammo. Excellent video and thank you for the absolute BEST video I've watched on cleaning a Garrand action!
New Mini 14 owner here and this by far was the most thorough and informative video about how to clean this firearm. Thank you so much, just completed my 1st cleaning with confidence!
Amazingly helpful! I am new to the mini 14. Bought a new SS one and have not taken it to the range yet, I've been learning all I can about the mini 14 first. Your video is a gift! Very informative, very interesting! This video should go into the ruger video archive! Thank you for taking the time and effort to share your experience and knowledge!!
Best instructional video I have observed on the Ruger Mini 14, detailed with excellent explanations, Thank you sir for sharing your knowledge and experience. Bought my Ruger in 1989 and it still functions great and deadly accurate. Thanks again.
This Gentleman is an ABSOLUTE pleasure to watch, listen and learn from. The genuine nature and high integrity of his character is so refreshing. I immediately subscribed to his channel not only for his impeccable instructions and knowledge he exhibits but also for his character and demeanor. This gentleman is a model of decency, honor and good character and a reminder of what "good people" are. Thank you sir for sharing all that you share and providing the character of a man that others can aspire to emulate. I salute you.
You mentioned bedding the Mini 14 but you did not expand other than a teaser "40% improvement" on that and no view of it. I next checked to see if you had a video, but did not find one in your list of videos. Is it something you could show us how to do? Could you borrow a rifle and give us a good view? I'm sure that there would be plenty of interest.
Thanks for the informative vid, love your work. Unfortunately I'm having to explore alternatives to my ARs since in Virginia they are likely to be outlawed within the next year or two at the most. I'll probably sell the ARs while I can still get something for them from people in other states. I like the Mini-14 and would use it pretty much for defensive use at home and on my property out to 100 yards or so. Since you have one, would you recommend one?
I have to say I am 64 yrs young and you sir are very good teacher, it is too bad that we all fall for the advertising schemes on all the cleaning products, I just purchased a new mini 14 and I really enjoyed you instructional video, I feel confident that I can clean my gun without any problem ! Thanks so much for your help...
"trained armorer"... lol! I was about 10min into this...just listening and I thought..."WOW, this guy actually knows what the h*ll he is talking about...that is rare on TH-cam..." So, I read the description... Well, now I know why! Thanks for the video!
Sincerely appreciate you taking the time to share your extensive knowledge of this amazing weapon. Very detailed and comprehensive instruction on breakdown, cleaning , lube and reassembly.
Im so happy you made this video--------I learned so much from you on how to clean my Ruger SR1911 and now Mini 14cant wait to watch and learn. Thanks for being an excellent Teacher
Nice video. I can actually see what he is doing and how he is cleaning the rifle. This is honestly better than the Ruger video. Thanks for the information, buddy. Keep up the good work.
Great video. Thanks.for both the practical money saving advice, but also showing how simple it is to maintain this rifle. I was thinking about buying one, and now I'm pretty sure I will.
Listen to his detailed analysis, this guy is more than accurate, but most importantly, Realistic! I’m a proud Mini30 owner, I’m on board with this instructional video.
I modified my 5 round mags the way he described and it works flawlessly if anyone is worried about doing it. The piece is made of plastic and cuts easily and can be smoothed with a fine file or sandpaper. 👍🏻
Thank you kindly for sharing your knowledge with the rest of us. I have learned a great deal from watching your channel and I thoroughly enjoy listening to your narratives. You remind me of my grandfather in many ways. Thank you Sir!
I’ve had my Mini14 for years and I enjoy it to the point I sold my AR and kept my Mini. I have cleaned it many times but watched your video because it’s always good to see someone else’s knowledge and experience. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you sir for another outstanding video. Please stay healthy and live as long as you can, your knowledge is priceless to us your audience ! God bless
Bought this rifle for my daughter. Her and I will be watching this together. glad you mentioned the oil in the barrel. i always placed about two drops down the barrel and let it flow down. Fantastic job on this. But this a great instructional video.
You clean the weapon just like my father a WW2 Marine, taught me when I was a kid, refreshing to see the same knowledge in use. A very well done instructional video.
Are used to only mini 14, I literally threw it in the burn pile, it was the worst piece of crap rifle I've ever owned you couldn't hit a gallon jug at 100 yards with it. It was the biggest mistake that I can recall Ruger ever made. I am absolutely nothing new to weaponry, but the early Ruger Mini 14's were the most disgusting piece of machinery I ever used.
Back many years ago, (1968) I learned to clean my firearms from some very serious fellows in the army. Your equipment is better but you recommend the same techniques that they did. OK, they didn't suggest, they directed and demanded. I enjoy my old Mini-14. It feels like a real rifle to me. You have a superb presentation here.
Thank you for a very informative video. Question: to you recommend this complete of a tear-down after every shoot? If not how often do you clean your Mini 14 this thoroughly? Thank you
I'm in the final stage of deciding whether or not to buy a Mini-14 and needed some info and this guy's video is very detailed and perfect for what I was looking for. Absolutely fantastic information. Love how he broke down every aspect of the Mini-14 in easily understandable terms. And he's hilarious because he's a tinkerer. He can't leave anything alone or factory; he has to tinker with it lol. He reminds me of my brother in that every time he opens a package the first thing he does is disassemble it entirely to see how it works, tinkers with it, then puts it back together. Absolutely hilarious.
I bought a used mini14 from a co-worker. The serial # comes back from 2003 manufacture date. With this video I broke the rifle down and found a filthy rifle. It was wet with oil and gritty black dirt inside. He must of sprayed oil into the action. I got all the oil cleaned out and all parts are clean and dry. there was a broken buffer . I am ordering new parts and look forward to shooting the clean mini 14. Great Video. Thank You. Very helpful.
Very timely video. My Mini 14 has not been fired much and I've just recently gotten interested in it again. Just got set up with a vice and made plywood blocks like you showed in an earlier video. Works great for all kinds of things! I'm back with Hoppes after trying Balistol. It works fine but two of my cats love the smell. Hoppes smell keeps them away.
I have learned much from watching your videos, I still use other solvents and oil because I paid for them but I use much less. Once they're gone I'll stick with my Hoppes oil and solvent as well as my lithium bearing grease (when needed). Thanks gunblue!
Thank you sir very much for this video. I'm an Army veteran and have owned many firearms, but just got my first 580 series mini 14. After spending an hour with you sir I feel at one with my new rifle. You are amazing. Thank you again. PRO PATRIA VIGILANS
This is the best video I have seen on the Mini14. I'm new to the Mini14 and was rather intimidated by the job of cleaning it. This makes it look much easier. I have the all-weather model like in this video.
Thank You Mr GunBlue for your very informative video, I am a New Gunsmith (about 4 Yrs) and i learned alot from you I subscribed and follow you , Do You have a Patreon Account to help for donations so you can teach us More? I have a special request Mr. Gun Blue can you teach us about a Ruger Security-Six 357 Mag Revolver? Like you taught us about the Mini - 14 ? Thanks alot Your Fried Mark D. Aul
Thank you so much for the informative video. I was hoping you could tell me how much inch pounds the gas block requires. I took mine off for a full cleaning free of anything being in the way, but I soon realized after reassembling that I did not know the inch pounds to put it back on. Afraid I would compromise the barrel, I put it loose.
Good morning Sir Date: 28th Dec 2023 Time 23h54 Thank you so so very much for such a detailed video on this fine firearm. I have purchased the same firearm and have an appointment with my D.F.O. (Designated Firearm Officer) at my local police station on the 05/01/2024 to hand in this and other applications for license to possess a firearm. I will definitely be accessing this video as soon as I receive my license and firearm. I am very impressed at how knowledgeable you are as well as how simplistic you are with the equipment that you use. All the way from South Africa
I like to use a short piece of a wooden dowel rod, to help push the cleaning rag around into the tight slots, and spaces where my fingers wont fit well, or where there might be any sharp edges, (to avoid getting cut, or pinched fingers).
Today I observed a minor malfunction while shooting my Mini 14. Twice, the bolt failed to close and pick up a fresh round when there was ammo in the mag. The rifle is low-mileage, a 584 series with about 500 rounds through her. Rifle was clean, and lubed lightly with Clenzoil. Of course, this malfunction was remedied quickly with a pull of the charging handle and I was back in action. But I'm curious if it could be caused by too little lube, or some other issue. I also wondered if the mild ammo was not bringing the bolt all the way back every time. I was shooting PMC .223 today, not 5.56. I never recall having this issue with my old M1 and that was a beat up surplus weapon. Thanks for any help folks!
I do not recommend any lubricating oil, other than a wipe of plain mineral oil for rust protection on a blued finish. A very light application with a Q-tip of 130-AA Lubriplate in the operating rod track, bolt lugs, and bolt knob is good. Never, ever lubricate any magazine with anything, whatsoever. If you fired 500 rounds without any stoppages, and if you're using the same Ruger magazine, the gun is well proven. Aftermarket magazines of any brand have a known history of being very unreliable. It's possible that you have a bad batch of ammo, but not likely. Though the rifle is chambered and tested for 5.56mm NATO pressures, it certainly does not require it and will operate fine, and with less blast with .223 Remington ammo. It's all I use with my handloads. I suggest the following: 1. Dismantle and clean your gun and magazine, removing all oil, and be sure the magazine spring is correctly oriented. Anything backwards will malfunction. 2. Turn to my video "How to Fix a Stuck Mini-14 Bolt Lock - Bolt Jams to the Rear". Your bolt lock may be improperly installed, dragging, and grabbing the bolt. This is a common installation issue that will cause the problem you're experiencing. 3. Be sure the bevel of the buffer rod is under the cross pin, and that the buffer spring has not been kinked. 4. Of course, never install any aftermarket buffer washers, cushions, or non-original gas orifice. The gun tosses brass vigorously, but is not "over gassed" and will not beat itself up. 5. Try a different brand of ammo if it continues. 6. Whenever handloading for the Mini-14, avoid faster burning powders that are often used for .222 and .223 accuracy loads, such as IMR4198 and H332, as they will not return the bolt reliably.
Thank you for the comprehensive response! - I am only using factory, Ruger 5-round mags at this time. -mags are clean and NOT oiled. -NO aftermarket parts installed. I will check the bolt lock. I had assumed it could only be installed one way. It functions correctly, by the way. Be well sir.
Dirt and grease is very erosive to metal when not sealed, and is certainly not beneficial. The Mini 14 absolutely does not require grease, and will never wear out. If it ever does, Ruger will replace it. Simple as that.
Thank you Sir, for your lesson on how to clean my Mini 14, in will be keeping this lesson in my phone for a very long time! Jesus Bless You an your Family👍🇺🇸
I enjoyed the comments over damaging the barrel crown, I too have always considered you would have to be the "brute force and ignorance" type of person to ever damage a crown, just a little care and thought avoids any chance. I also agree with copper deposits in the bore. I took my mini to the range yesterday and fired around a 150 rounds through it, I was zeroing sights and as a result pausing between shots to make necessary adjustments and then shooting with careful aim firing frequently, but not making like I had a machine gun. Today I cleaned the gun and even though it is new (I did do a few shots and a barrel clean as a sort of barrel break in procedure previously) I could get virtually no copper out of the barrel, barely a hint of the blue green on any patch and the barrel came clean very quickly. Overall I was very surprised how clean running the Mini is, you could certainly fire a lot of rounds before you'd ever have an issue.
I love this guy. And what a great video! If you're into cleaning and maintaining your rifles and actually enjoy the after-shooting TLC, this hour long presentation goes by in a flash. I've watched it before and it feels like it's fifteen minutes long. Peace.
Showing some love for the Mini 14! A welcome sight. Thanks for the video. I just bought a Mini 14, and I will be referring to this video often while cleaning it.
Gotta love the Mini 14. Ruger made a Gem in making this. I've had mine little over 15 years. Been offered quite a bit over full price for it a few times with it kitted out with accessories I've put on it but its DEFINITELY the last of all my firearms I'd ever sell or even think about selling.
@RogerChapman I see it's been a few years since you commented but wondering how you liked and what you thought of yours when you got it? And do you still have and shoot regularly? Cool seeing others that are into the Mini 14 and other very similar firearms like myself. Nice pick and hope you've enjoyed it!
GunBlue, good evening. Just got my quart of LSA today. Got a batch from 1990. Using your single drop approach I think this thing will last me a lifetime... LOL. Many thanks again!
You made this so interesting that I watched 1 hour and 10 minutes of something I have done many times i also watched it because I wanted to make sure I have been doing it all the right way. Thank you sir.
Thanks GunBlue490 for sharing this video with the public. I asked my gunsmith if I could look over his shoulder while cleaning my Mini-14 and he looked offended/shocked. Guess he didn't want me learning the art of cleaning my own guns. LOL :-)
I like the idea of having some Hoppe's in a little squirt bottle. Anyone know if it must be a particular type of plastic or if the solvent is friendly to plastics? Thanks!
Outstanding. Thank you sir! I see of course that you prefer a dedicated bore solvent followed with a standard gun oil on this particular rifle. I'm curious what you think about an "old school" all-in-one product like Ballistol. Have you ever tried it? Peace.
All I can do is add another compliment. This is the voice of experience. He's not some come-lately blowhard simply reiterating what he saw in someone else's video. I learned more about my Mini, and firearms maintenance as a whole.
Can't believe I watched an hour long video, about something I've done hundreds of times, that was interesting and informative...You sir, are a master at instruction.
I was thinking the same thing, I've done this plenty of times and the only thing he does different than me is add grease and somehow I still found this video interesting. I have to be honest though, I had to watch this video twice because I fell asleep watching it the first time.
I watched for the same time and I thought I knew everything about my Mini 14 . I learned a lot .
@@thomaspacyga2653 And I watched it at 1AM knowing I will never get to use the knowledge or the gun ! Still time worth spent listening to GunBlue.
It's like watching grampa in his shop. Soothing.
Almost 2024 and here I am also watching something I've done 100's of times because why not 🇺🇸
Both my grandpas were war veterans but died when I was very young. This kinda feels like one of them sitting down with me and passing down some serious knowledge.
Giampaolo Fini, Same. :)
It’s hard to get this kind of knowledge!
This is easily the most detailed break down and cleaning video I've seen for the Mini-14. Well done!
Done by the master himself.
Thank you for passing down your valuable knowledge.
Good morning Sir.
As the owner of Mini 14 and 30, I appreciate the time and effort you've put into your videos. You are my reference for all things Mini! Subscribed 🙂
Just like to reiterate - GunBlue is THE youtube gun guy I refer everyone too. No BS, no nonsense, no politics, just knowledge. He's taught me more about guns than I learned on my own in 20 years by cutting through the BS and dropping knowledge. Thanks again!
Also, his dog is cute as heck.
This man is a jewel in the firearms community and we love this dude !thanks
I just bought a new Mini-14 and want to thank you for this detailed and very informative video. I now feel confident that I can take care of my Ruger. Well done sir.
One of the most informative gun videos, top to bottom, I’ve ever watched.
I agree...I’ve learned more about this rifle in an hour and 10 minutes than ever expected! Excellent job explaining the process and even better...he’s concerned about us saving our money for our next purchase! 👍🏻😘
This is not only the best Mini 14 instructional video I've ever seen, but it also gave me that childhood quality time with Grandpa feeling. Thank you so much sir. God bless.
I liked this video as well. This is the last rifle my grandmother and I went shooting with. He is the one who taught me how to shoot and everything about firearms.
I've been cleaning guns for 50 years, and I've just learned a bunch of things I did not know! Very nice video! Thank you Sir.
I learned to NOT pull the swab back and forth... Good tip.
Did you hear the sounds of angels singing when he racked it back and forth...
Yes!
I have one which I purchased in 1976 and it has" Made in the 200th year of American Liberty" stamped on the side of it. I went to work for the prison system in Arkansas in 1983 and found that they used these guns and they worked great when cleaned properly. I found also that many other agencies have the same guns and the one I have the earlier sights on it, but the company changed them later on the newer ones. My gun is highly accurate and I have killed squirrels and snakes with it. I use to bring my own cleaning kit to work to clean the state guns when I worked in a tower where the guns was kept along with the Remington 870 shotguns.
Thank you very much for this video. I think my mini 14 will last much longer thanks to you, I just got it used (1982 model) and had plans on cleaning it and the methods I was about to use would have most likely done more harm than good. I appreciate the history lesson too as well as the tips and tricks. I love this gun!
Excellent instruction on getting the bolt back in. Now I’m not afraid to take the bolt out anymore.
I passed a group of protesters one day holding signs saying the Mini-14 should be banned. They were all coyotes...
I'm in my 60's and have seen and read many things. I really don't know how I stumbled on this video, but as retired military, it brought back a lot of memories, some good, some not so much. I wish the younger generation would learn from experience...not believing that the latest, greatest products on the market are superior. Frog Lube vs Mobil 1 and auto grease is a no brainer. Waste your money if you want, but for all the money I've saved over the years, I have a lot more to spend on ammo. Excellent video and thank you for the absolute BEST video I've watched on cleaning a Garrand action!
Love this video, feel like I’m sitting down with my father as a kid in his gun room; good memories, thanks.
New Mini 14 owner here and this by far was the most thorough and informative video about how to clean this firearm. Thank you so much, just completed my 1st cleaning with confidence!
Amazingly helpful! I am new to the mini 14. Bought a new SS one and have not taken it to the range yet, I've been learning all I can about the mini 14 first.
Your video is a gift! Very informative, very interesting!
This video should go into the ruger video archive!
Thank you for taking the time and effort to share your experience and knowledge!!
As a proud owner of a Mini14 this is the very best instruction to dissasemble and clean it. Thanks very much!
Best instructional video I have observed on the Ruger Mini 14, detailed with excellent explanations, Thank you sir for sharing your knowledge and experience. Bought my Ruger in 1989 and it still functions great and deadly accurate. Thanks again.
This Gentleman is an ABSOLUTE pleasure to watch, listen and learn from. The genuine nature and high integrity of his character is so refreshing. I immediately subscribed to his channel not only for his impeccable instructions and knowledge he exhibits but also for his character and demeanor. This gentleman is a model of decency, honor and good character and a reminder of what "good people" are. Thank you sir for sharing all that you share and providing the character of a man that others can aspire to emulate. I salute you.
"The military way of doing it has always been most efficient" You don't hear that every day!! Great video thank you!
You mentioned bedding the Mini 14 but you did not expand other than a teaser "40% improvement" on that and no view of it. I next checked to see if you had a video, but did not find one in your list of videos. Is it something you could show us how to do? Could you borrow a rifle and give us a good view? I'm sure that there would be plenty of interest.
Thanks for the informative vid, love your work. Unfortunately I'm having to explore alternatives to my ARs since in Virginia they are likely to be outlawed within the next year or two at the most. I'll probably sell the ARs while I can still get something for them from people in other states. I like the Mini-14 and would use it pretty much for defensive use at home and on my property out to 100 yards or so. Since you have one, would you recommend one?
I concur... Hands down one of the best instructional videos I have watched in a long time. Very detailed and informative. Excellent job sir!
I just bought a Mini14 today and am so glad I watched this vid. Being a ARMY veteran I so appreciate your block of instructions.
I have to say I am 64 yrs young and you sir are very good teacher, it is too bad that we all fall for the advertising schemes on all the cleaning products, I just purchased a new mini 14 and I really enjoyed you instructional video, I feel confident that I can clean my gun without any problem ! Thanks so much for your help...
"trained armorer"... lol! I was about 10min into this...just listening and I thought..."WOW, this guy actually knows what the h*ll he is talking about...that is rare on TH-cam..." So, I read the description... Well, now I know why! Thanks for the video!
An excellent video. Thank you Sir. However, I use Ballistol to clean my firearms.
Sincerely appreciate you taking the time to share your extensive knowledge of this amazing weapon. Very detailed and comprehensive instruction on breakdown, cleaning , lube and reassembly.
Im so happy you made this video--------I learned so much from you on how to clean my Ruger SR1911 and now Mini 14cant wait to watch and learn. Thanks for being an excellent Teacher
Nice video. I can actually see what he is doing and how he is cleaning the rifle. This is honestly better than the Ruger video. Thanks for the information, buddy. Keep up the good work.
Best Mini 14 video on TH-cam. Everything you need to know all in one shot. Thank you. 😎🇺🇸
Great video. Thanks.for both the practical money saving advice, but also showing how simple it is to maintain this rifle. I was thinking about buying one, and now I'm pretty sure I will.
Listen to his detailed analysis, this guy is more than accurate, but most importantly, Realistic!
I’m a proud Mini30 owner, I’m on board with this instructional video.
I modified my 5 round mags the way he described and it works flawlessly if anyone is worried about doing it.
The piece is made of plastic and cuts easily and can be smoothed with a fine file or sandpaper. 👍🏻
I just did the same. Cut with side clippers and used my pocket knife to smooth the plastic.
Thank you kindly for sharing your knowledge with the rest of us. I have learned a great deal from watching your channel and I thoroughly enjoy listening to your narratives. You remind me of my grandfather in many ways. Thank you Sir!
I’ve had my Mini14 for years and I enjoy it to the point I sold my AR and kept my Mini. I have cleaned it many times but watched your video because it’s always good to see someone else’s knowledge and experience. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you sir for another outstanding video. Please stay healthy and live as long as you can, your knowledge is priceless to us your audience !
God bless
Bought this rifle for my daughter. Her and I will be watching this together. glad you mentioned the oil in the barrel. i always placed about two drops down the barrel and let it flow down. Fantastic job on this. But this a great instructional video.
Thank you for taking the time to do these videos. Very good job!
You clean the weapon just like my father a WW2 Marine, taught me when I was a kid, refreshing to see the same knowledge in use. A very well done instructional video.
Weapon?
I don’t have a Mini 14 but I watched it all the way thru, thanks and God bless you my brother.
Are used to only mini 14, I literally threw it in the burn pile, it was the worst piece of crap rifle I've ever owned you couldn't hit a gallon jug at 100 yards with it. It was the biggest mistake that I can recall Ruger ever made. I am absolutely nothing new to weaponry, but the early Ruger Mini 14's were the most disgusting piece of machinery I ever used.
Very good video... And I never leave comments.
Back many years ago, (1968) I learned to clean my firearms from some very serious fellows in the army. Your equipment is better but you recommend the same techniques that they did. OK, they didn't suggest, they directed and demanded. I enjoy my old Mini-14. It feels like a real rifle to me. You have a superb presentation here.
Thank you for a very informative video. Question: to you recommend this complete of a tear-down after every shoot? If not how often do you clean your Mini 14 this thoroughly? Thank you
Great video! I can't wait to apply your techniques to FINALLY properly clean my '80s Mini-14.
Some great tips and obviously has a lot of knowledge, thx!
Awesome video! Couldn’t have done it without you!! 💪💪💪
Appreciate it sir always a pleasure to watch! Did the magazine modification!
I'm in the final stage of deciding whether or not to buy a Mini-14 and needed some info and this guy's video is very detailed and perfect for what I was looking for. Absolutely fantastic information. Love how he broke down every aspect of the Mini-14 in easily understandable terms. And he's hilarious because he's a tinkerer. He can't leave anything alone or factory; he has to tinker with it lol. He reminds me of my brother in that every time he opens a package the first thing he does is disassemble it entirely to see how it works, tinkers with it, then puts it back together. Absolutely hilarious.
You sir, are a master. Hopefully there is someone in your life who you are passing your knowledge onto. God bless you.
Most comprehensive video I’ve seen 👍👍👍👍👍
I bought a used mini14 from a co-worker.
The serial # comes back from 2003 manufacture date.
With this video I broke the rifle down and found a filthy rifle.
It was wet with oil and gritty black dirt inside. He must of sprayed oil into the
action. I got all the oil cleaned out and all parts are clean and dry.
there was a broken buffer . I am ordering new parts and look forward to shooting the
clean mini 14. Great Video. Thank You. Very helpful.
Very timely video. My Mini 14 has not been fired much and I've just recently gotten interested in it again. Just got set up with a vice and made plywood blocks like you showed in an earlier video. Works great for all kinds of things! I'm back with Hoppes after trying Balistol. It works fine but two of my cats love the smell. Hoppes smell keeps them away.
I have learned much from watching your videos, I still use other solvents and oil because I paid for them but I use much less. Once they're gone I'll stick with my Hoppes oil and solvent as well as my lithium bearing grease (when needed). Thanks gunblue!
Beautifully presented. Thank you!
Question, where did you get the replacement tech sight? Btw, most awesome instructional video.
Excellent, well done, very informative, and well detailed video. One of the best videos on the Mini-14 on the net. Thank you.
Thank you sir very much for this video. I'm an Army veteran and have owned many firearms, but just got my first 580 series mini 14. After spending an hour with you sir I feel at one with my new rifle. You are amazing. Thank you again. PRO PATRIA VIGILANS
This is the best video I have seen on the Mini14. I'm new to the Mini14 and was rather intimidated by the job of cleaning it. This makes it look much easier. I have the all-weather model like in this video.
I've gone through several videos and for sure your information is the best presented with quality details. Well done and thank you.
so much generosity
thank you for all the information!
Thank You Mr GunBlue for your very informative video, I am a New Gunsmith (about 4 Yrs) and i learned alot from you I subscribed and follow you , Do You have a Patreon Account to help for donations so you can teach us More? I have a special request Mr. Gun Blue can you teach us about a Ruger Security-Six 357 Mag Revolver? Like you taught us about the Mini - 14 ? Thanks alot Your Fried Mark D. Aul
In depth, informative, comprehensive video tutorial.
Thanks
I like your non-nonsense, informative presentation. This video goes beyond being interesting: It's a reference work.
You Sir,Are a wealth of knowledge. Enough Said! Love my 582 Mini-14
thank you for the video sir, this is my first gun and I had no idea how to maintain it.
Thank you, sir! Your informative, thorough, and detailed instructions are most welcome and much appreciated.
This will be watched for one hundred more years!
Excellent and precise. Greatly enjoyed it as a novice with first time purchase of the Mini 300.
Wow! Great job! thank you for the lesson. I'll be using this video as I learn my new gun!
Hoppes is after shave.
Thank you so much for the informative video. I was hoping you could tell me how much inch pounds the gas block requires. I took mine off for a full cleaning free of anything being in the way, but I soon realized after reassembling that I did not know the inch pounds to put it back on. Afraid I would compromise the barrel, I put it loose.
Good morning Sir
Date: 28th Dec 2023
Time 23h54
Thank you so so very much for such a detailed video on this fine firearm.
I have purchased the same firearm and have an appointment with my D.F.O. (Designated Firearm Officer) at my local police station on the 05/01/2024 to hand in this and other applications for license to possess a firearm.
I will definitely be accessing this video as soon as I receive my license and firearm.
I am very impressed at how knowledgeable you are as well as how simplistic you are with the equipment that you use.
All the way from South Africa
This is an excellent video on stripping and cleaning the mini 14.
Thank you for taking the time for all of us. This video is one of the best that I've seen and I'm sure that I'll watch it again.
During storage I leave a light film of oil, but before I shoot I wipe all oil off? Will this be better for the gun?
I like to use a short piece of a wooden dowel rod, to help push the cleaning rag around into the tight slots, and spaces where my fingers wont fit well, or where there might be any sharp edges, (to avoid getting cut, or pinched fingers).
Today I observed a minor malfunction while shooting my Mini 14. Twice, the bolt failed to close and pick up a fresh round when there was ammo in the mag. The rifle is low-mileage, a 584 series with about 500 rounds through her. Rifle was clean, and lubed lightly with Clenzoil. Of course, this malfunction was remedied quickly with a pull of the charging handle and I was back in action. But I'm curious if it could be caused by too little lube, or some other issue. I also wondered if the mild ammo was not bringing the bolt all the way back every time. I was shooting PMC .223 today, not 5.56.
I never recall having this issue with my old M1 and that was a beat up surplus weapon.
Thanks for any help folks!
I do not recommend any lubricating oil, other than a wipe of plain mineral oil for rust protection on a blued finish. A very light application with a Q-tip of 130-AA Lubriplate in the operating rod track, bolt lugs, and bolt knob is good. Never, ever lubricate any magazine with anything, whatsoever.
If you fired 500 rounds without any stoppages, and if you're using the same Ruger magazine, the gun is well proven. Aftermarket magazines of any brand have a known history of being very unreliable. It's possible that you have a bad batch of ammo, but not likely. Though the rifle is chambered and tested for 5.56mm NATO pressures, it certainly does not require it and will operate fine, and with less blast with .223 Remington ammo. It's all I use with my handloads.
I suggest the following:
1. Dismantle and clean your gun and magazine, removing all oil, and be sure the magazine spring is correctly oriented. Anything backwards will malfunction.
2. Turn to my video "How to Fix a Stuck Mini-14 Bolt Lock - Bolt Jams to the Rear". Your bolt lock may be improperly installed, dragging, and grabbing the bolt. This is a common installation issue that will cause the problem you're experiencing.
3. Be sure the bevel of the buffer rod is under the cross pin, and that the buffer spring has not been kinked.
4. Of course, never install any aftermarket buffer washers, cushions, or non-original gas orifice. The gun tosses brass vigorously, but is not "over gassed" and will not beat itself up.
5. Try a different brand of ammo if it continues.
6. Whenever handloading for the Mini-14, avoid faster burning powders that are often used for .222 and .223 accuracy loads, such as IMR4198 and H332, as they will not return the bolt reliably.
Thank you for the comprehensive response!
- I am only using factory, Ruger 5-round mags at this time.
-mags are clean and NOT oiled.
-NO aftermarket parts installed.
I will check the bolt lock. I had assumed it could only be installed one way. It functions correctly, by the way.
Be well sir.
Excellent video! Love the smell of Hoppe's! I would say to definitely grease the gun - even in dirty environments - just don't go nuts with the stuff.
Dirt and grease is very erosive to metal when not sealed, and is certainly not beneficial. The Mini 14 absolutely does not require grease, and will never wear out. If it ever does, Ruger will replace it. Simple as that.
Thank you Sir, for your lesson on how to clean my Mini 14, in will be keeping this lesson in my phone for a very long time! Jesus Bless You an your Family👍🇺🇸
I enjoyed the comments over damaging the barrel crown, I too have always considered you would have to be the "brute force and ignorance" type of person to ever damage a crown, just a little care and thought avoids any chance.
I also agree with copper deposits in the bore. I took my mini to the range yesterday and fired around a 150 rounds through it, I was zeroing sights and as a result pausing between shots to make necessary adjustments and then shooting with careful aim firing frequently, but not making like I had a machine gun. Today I cleaned the gun and even though it is new (I did do a few shots and a barrel clean as a sort of barrel break in procedure previously) I could get virtually no copper out of the barrel, barely a hint of the blue green on any patch and the barrel came clean very quickly. Overall I was very surprised how clean running the Mini is, you could certainly fire a lot of rounds before you'd ever have an issue.
Outstanding Sir. Muchísimas gracias. Very informative. You are very sincere and such a great instructor. God bless you Sir!!!
I love this guy. And what a great video! If you're into cleaning and maintaining your rifles and actually enjoy the after-shooting TLC, this hour long presentation goes by in a flash. I've watched it before and it feels like it's fifteen minutes long.
Peace.
Showing some love for the Mini 14! A welcome sight. Thanks for the video. I just bought a Mini 14, and I will be referring to this video often while cleaning it.
Gotta love the Mini 14. Ruger made a Gem in making this. I've had mine little over 15 years. Been offered quite a bit over full price for it a few times with it kitted out with accessories I've put on it but its DEFINITELY the last of all my firearms I'd ever sell or even think about selling.
@RogerChapman I see it's been a few years since you commented but wondering how you liked and what you thought of yours when you got it? And do you still have and shoot regularly? Cool seeing others that are into the Mini 14 and other very similar firearms like myself. Nice pick and hope you've enjoyed it!
3 years later, how are you enjoying your Mini-14? Would you recommend it?
Thorough and informative as always; thanks for the video!
Great video, thank you sir. I'm not very skilled at mechanical things, so I'll watch it a few times before I attempt cleaning my rifle. God Bless you.
Fantastic, very thorough. Thanks for the video!
Thank you, sir !!! I’m very happy with this video
very detailed video. thank you kind sir. love the accent, by the way
Thank you. God bless!
GunBlue, good evening. Just got my quart of LSA today. Got a batch from 1990. Using your single drop approach I think this thing will last me a lifetime... LOL. Many thanks again!
You made this so interesting that I watched 1 hour and 10 minutes of something I have done many times i also watched it because I wanted to make sure I have been doing it all the right way.
Thank you sir.
Thanks GunBlue490 for sharing this video with the public. I asked my gunsmith if I could look over his shoulder while cleaning my Mini-14 and he looked offended/shocked. Guess he didn't want me learning the art of cleaning my own guns. LOL :-)
James Kroeger
Maybe he felt clumsy and didn't want you to notice.
I like the idea of having some Hoppe's in a little squirt bottle. Anyone know if it must be a particular type of plastic or if the solvent is friendly to plastics? Thanks!
You may use most any plastic squirt bottle.
Outstanding. Thank you sir!
I see of course that you prefer a dedicated bore solvent followed with a standard gun oil on this particular rifle. I'm curious what you think about an "old school" all-in-one product like Ballistol. Have you ever tried it?
Peace.
All I can do is add another compliment. This is the voice of experience. He's not some come-lately blowhard simply reiterating what he saw in someone else's video. I learned more about my Mini, and firearms maintenance as a whole.
The best description of how to clean anM-14 oops mini 14 I ever heard or saw..Thank you Sir