Why Won't the Ruger Mini-14 Just Die? [Part 1]

For at least couple of decades, the Ruger Mini-14 was America's favorite semi-automatic rifle. But that time has passed. If you're seen with one today, The Internet is likely to label you either a Fudd or a snowflake. In spite of that, the Mini-14 is still in production today, and well loved by many shooters. But... why? In the first installment of a two-part series, we're looking at how the Mini-14 got to where it is today.
Watch Part 2 here: • Why Won't the Ruger Mi...
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[@bradd4356]

Because the A-team will always live on in our hearts and minds

[@GR1MKA1]

Was coming to post this.

[@mightymcknight]

Ya that.

[@richb.4374]

You read my mind Brad! Every time I think about or see a Mini 14 I think of the A-Team.

[@toadsanX]

Good enough for me.

[@Mr_Dopey]

Because it's legal in NY state.

[@washguy5982]

I was a caretaker on an 850 acre wilderness property with camps. The mini was a perfect companion when doing my security checks. Low key looks never freaked anyone out.

[@Dylan.More-Veiny]

Cap

[@B86432]

sounds like a dream job

[@fiveowaf454]

That's why I like my Mini 14 and Mini 30, they are great multi purpose rifles and give you the opportunity to be very well protected for self defense, while being low key, as you stated. While I like my AR15's I feel much more of a connection to the Ruger Mini's, for me they have more character.

[@thegeneral1955]

@@fiveowaf454 Debating on selling my ar and or ak and getting either a mini 14 or mini 30. Which do you think is better or which do you prefer?

[@Hugh_Jassle]

@@thegeneral1955 Both platforms are superior to the Mini-14

[@jimmarcum7362]

My father bought me a used Mini 14 in 1979 from one of his co-workers. It came with a side folder aftermarket stock and a 5 round magazine, along with the original stock. I went to the next gun show and was shocked to find the 30 round and 20 round Ruger made magazines were over 30 bucks a piece and the white box they came in were labeled law enforcement only. Even back then Bill Ruger didn't think then citizens needed hi-cap magazines. After that, he testified before congressional committees hearings and said no citizen needed more than a ten round magazine. This was way before the late 80's. And ten rounds was good number because he was selling a boat load of 10-22s, it would cost him a small fortune to redesign an approved, less than ten round rotary magazine. He was all for banning his competition, the evil black rifle. By that time Bushmaster, Model 1 Sales and Olympic Arms AKA SGW were selling AR kits for 400 bucks up, depending on the model. Before the end of the 80's some of the companies were selling complete rifles for around 500 bucks. The Colt SP1s were still around 800 bucks discounted. I think he figured he could get rid of the AR manufactures that had been selling surplus parts and making new upper and lowers. But when the ban went into place, these manufacturers started making compliant ARs w/o threaded barrels, or with pinned muzzle brake. No bayonet lugs and pinned collapsible stocks. Bill Ruger did not try to save the semi auto weapons by getting the hi-cap magazine ban passed. He just tried to get his competition from stop selling low cost ARs. Bill Ruger became one of the most hated people in the firearms industry. My Mini 14 accuracy was horrible, I changed ammo and it still sucked. In 1984, I bought a SGW CAR 15 kit, it had a 12 inch barrel with a 4 inch pinned flash hider attached. With reloads I could get a little over 1 MOA groups. And at the 1982 gun shows, you could buy 20 and 30 round like new M16 military magazines for 3$ each.

[@kagyu1]

This comment should be pinned!

[@somercet1]

Thank you for this comment.

[@MiserableOldFart]

In civilized places, high capacity magazines are prohibited.

[@FlipMcPole]

My father bought himself the Ranch version a few years ago, but passed away before he and I went to the range. Went to the range recently with some friends and was pleasantly surprised at how it operated. Definitely enjoyed firing the weapon.

[@thomastherriault8632]

It's sad that you couldn't share that experience with your dad before he passed, but I'm sure he was smiling when you and your friends were popping that rifle off. 👍🙂

[@almcclung2783]

I have a ranch rifle, absolutely love it! I owned a Mini-14, but the weird side-attached scope mount was too easy to knock out of whack. The Ranch is 5.56 and has the integral fingernail cuts for scope mounting in the receiver, solving the scope mounting weak point of the 14. Also have magazines that will fit my AR AND my ranch rifle. I still prefer the ranch rifle to my AR, just like the feel better, personal preference, I guess! I can drive tacks with it if I want, take it prairie dog shooting all the time... I also bought a Hogue over molded stock which makes it a little more comfortable...

[@shooter2055]

I always thought of the Mini as an upgraded M-1 Carbine rather than a shrunk M-14. Pay attention to the gas system. I've had several Minis over the years. The kids stole my more recent pair. The first, back in '81 had a wooden front top cover. I managed to set the hand guard on fire one busy day. Good memories!

[@Scannerhead]

Funny my daughter confiscated my SS Mini 30 and now calls hers.

[@Leroy-Jenkem]

@@Scannerhead funny i commandeered my mini from my father, interesting

[@davidgreen5099]

I found one of those wooden top covers at a gun show. My Mini now sports it.

[@shooter2055]

@@davidgreen5099 Safety tip: they CAN ignite if fired enthusiastically. It's a "What's that smell?" sort of thing until you finally notice the smoke. :-) I thought the wood had a better look to it.

[@davidgreen5099]

@@shooter2055 thank you! I thought that was the reason it was discontinued, i appreciate your confirmation. I have nowhere i can shoot enthusiastically, and its way to expensive now. It was my Dad's, i inherited it, its babied.

[@mikecampbell5856]

We had the M-14 on our ship back in the 70s. The first time I shot one, I earned the Navy Expert Rifleman Medal. One of my most valued possessions.

[@sonoftexasOO]

We had them on the uss kittyhawk while I was aboard 01 to 05. My favorite rifle

[@PJ-SC]

Earned my expert medal with an M14 and 1911 pistol in 1986 while assigned to the USS Mcfaul DDG-42.

[@flat-earther]

Mike Campbell I suggest watch a 13 part series called _What on earth happened_ by Ewaranon to learn that the earth is not a globe. I got it in my about tab.

[@hungryorphan5975]

@@flat-earther yikes

[@flat-earther]

@@hungryorphan5975 Many people have measured for curvature on large frozen lakes and found none but you don't have to believe them because you can test it yourself. I suggest watching the series to learn stuff you probably have not heard before.

[@deepsea5107]

If Ruger built a Mini 14 that would accept AR magazines, that might be a game changer.

[@operator8014]

A Mini 15 perhaps?

[@matsnygren1935]

@@operator8014 Underrated comment

[@davidtuttle7556]

There’s probably a copyright or trademark infringement issue involved with that somewhere. One which AR would most definitely Sue over if they think it costs them sales.

[@clownworld4655]

@@davidtuttle7556 that’s not how it works 🤦‍♂️

[@davidtuttle7556]

@@clownworld4655 if you say so. I’m just watching the nonsense going on with KPI and the WWSD project.

[@gbeats1988]

I love my Mini-14. I picked up the stainless steel version at a Bass Pro Shops in Upstate NY back in 2019 for $1000. After shooting it for awhile I noticed when it got hot, spent cartridges would fail to eject and cause jams. Sent it back to Ruger and they replaced the bolt assembly for free. Works flawlessly now. Grab yourself a few Ruger 20 & 30 round magazines, the aftermarket ones I've tried from ProMag don't feed very well. I can reliably hit man-sized targets at 150 yards and that's all I need from a 5.56 rifle!

[@davidpallin772]

As long as Ruger stays in business this particular rifle will always be around. Simply put, it works and works well.

[@Nick-wn1xw]

Like the Number 1? Model 77 in several forms? Never underestimate Rugers ability to shoot themselves in the foot.

[@davidpallin772]

@@Nick-wn1xw It’s all good Nick. As with any manufacturer things change over time and the changes don’t go over well for some. I get it. I have a Ruger M-77 MkII and it works well. The whitetail don’t know the difference.

[@Hardscaper207]

It works well? It's junk compared to any decent ak or ar.

[@davidpallin772]

@@Hardscaper207 If you say so. I carried a M-16 for three years and it worked great. Have had a Mini-14 for 35 years and it works fine. I don’t consider either rifle “junk”. But then you must be an expert.

[@jakesuper6447]

@J It killed 69 people in the norwau attacks, which is unfortunate that that happened but that clearly shows the ruger mini is deadly

[@bangochupchup]

My folks got me a Mini-14 for Christmas in 1981. I sold it about 25 years later. With factory mags it was plenty reliable but my groups would open up after a while (older barrel profile). Still, I have fond memories of it. Going up on the mountain for a cookout with the cab of the truck stuffed full of kids. Mini and a couple mags cushioned on a baby blanket on the dashboard, dogs jumping around in the truck bed. Good times. Nostalgia might be one of the factors that keeps the Mini soldiering on.

[@steveelbert6996]

Well some of don't want a plastic lego pop gun

[@leftoids.are.cringe]

Damn, this comment hits right in the Americana. Loving it.

[@aluisious]

Why did you need a semi auto rifle and several mags within reach to go for a cookout?

[@tonyg3929]

@@aluisious those critters aren't going to jump in the pan willingly...

[@iviekicklighte673]

It's because they had a pencil barrel at first

[@fish509b]

As a Marine from the M-14 era, I've got to say I loved my M-14s. When we were finally issued the M-16, we called it a tinker toy. The mini 14 seems to be a worthy successor to the M-1 Carbine.

[@bunk95]

My grandpa was forced to leave his for the Koreans…

[@dirkditmer453]

While commercial salmon fishing in the Aleutian Islands in the early 80s, I bought a used Mini 14 at a supply store. I had 2 30 round clips which I taped back to back. We mostly used it to scare away animals ( you do NOT shoot an Alaskan Coastal grizzly with a .223, just makes them mad). We beat that gun to tears, throwing it around in the skiff, dropping it in the surf, etc. But whenever I just picked it up and shot it, it never failed, never jammed (as long as I loaded the magazines right). And a hell of alot more accurate then the .45-70 I kept for the bears. One of the best guns I ever owned.

[@luthergillis5632]

This video was extremely well done and accurately captures the feeling and attitude of shooters during the time when the Mini-14 was popular. When I was a child, my Uncle would get a new Gun Digest every Christmas. He would let me read it when I would visit him and I spent countless hours reading them. I grew up around boats, and was a teenager when the Stainless Mini-14 came out. I couldn’t afford one at the time but, wow, that was the rifle to have. As per friends who did have a Mini-14, the pro’s and con’s are exactly as Chris mentioned in this video. Looking forward to part 2. Thank you.

[@hadronoftheseus8829]

In 1972, me and three other guys I served in 'Nam with were accused and convicted by a military tribunal of a crime we didn't commit. (We promptly escaped from a maximum security stockade and made our way to the Los Angeles underground, where we made our way as soldiers of fortune.) It wasn't always easy to get our hands on milspec hardware, so the Mini-14 was our weapon of choice.

[@camdt456]

@@hadronoftheseus8829 Yeah. I'm sure that happened.

[@berserkasaurusrex4233]

You seriously don’t know about the A-Team? They were pretty famous back in the day.

[@nealbeach4947]

@@hadronoftheseus8829 laying it on a little thick aren't we?

[@DaveSmith-cp5kj]

@@camdt456 It's a tv show reference.

[@ireckon4193]

I love my ARs and Mini-14 (and Mini-30) equally. I built my own 80% ARs and in the process fell in love with the platform, but my new love are the Minnies. I love that rotating bolt which has such fine heritage, and I love the recoil and gas system in the front, which allows for folding stocks. As a lefty I also appreciate the charging handle on the right. One of the reasons I also love the AK.

[@thebobbyllama6410]

Also as a lefty, the position of the safety on the Mini isn't a problem at all, it's right where you'd want it!

[@GunFunZS]

I would like to point out to you that there are a couple companies that make Foldy AR lowers. They are significantly cleaner design and total cost in - slightly cheaper than a standard lower plus a law folder.

[@flat-earther]

ireckon I suggest watch a 13 part series called _What on earth happened_ by Ewaranon to learn that the earth is not a globe. I got it in my about tab.

[@cavscout62]

Since Bill Ruger died the company has expanded and improved its product line and one of those improvements was the barrel on the Mini-14. I’ve owned several of them over the years and I have enjoyed them as truck guns and Varmint carbines as well as using them to train many kids firearms safety and maintenance/shooting.

[@ranchodeluxe1]

The expansions and improvements were Mr Ruger's brainchild. He was the visionary.

[@smelltheglove2038]

I bought one for my kid.

[@mirandahotspring4019]

I had one of these years ago, so did a few friends. None of us knew then there was a difference between .223 and 5.56 so we cheerfully put hundreds, maybe thousands, of rounds of cheap military ammo through them. We only found out years later you were only meant to use the 5.56 military ammo through the models actually marked 5.56. The military ammo apparently was loaded to higher pressures, far above the .223 one were designed for! But none of us had any problems with them, a testament to how well built they were.

[@18bradly]

That's because anything chambered in 5.56 can accept rem .223. But like you stated due to the higher pressures you cannot shoot 5.56 through anything chambered in standard rem .223. One of the main reasons in todays market you see the majority of ARs with a statement or chamber marking saying multi-caliber so they can accept both 5.56 and rem .223.

[@grantgarrod2232]

Bill Ruger, who birthed the Mini-series(among many other successful gun designs), always had an adage; "You design a gun to the strongest degree you think it possibly needs to be, & then double it!". Ruger firearms have always had a sterling reputation for strength & durability for exactly that reason.

[@lynnhall3532]

Pressure between 223 & 556 is the same. Testing methods are different.

[@mirandahotspring4019]

@@lynnhall3532 No. The first difference is the higher pressure level of the 5.56 NATO cartridge which runs at approximately 58,000 psi. A 223 Remington is loaded to approximately 55,000 psi. The second and most important difference between the two is the fact that a 5.56 NATO chamber has a .125” longer throat. This allows approximately one more grain of powder to be loaded into a 5.56 NATO cartridge; this is what gives it higher performance than its 223 Remington cousin. The biggest problem with these differences is when firing a 5.56 NATO cartridge in a rifle chambered for 223 Rem. Due to the longer throat that the NATO chamber employs this combination will cause a 223 chambered weapon to run at approximately 65,000 psi or more. This is 10,000 psi higher than the 223’s normal functioning pressure of 55,000 psi. This is NOT safe and will cause primers to back out, or worse, cause harm to the operator, the rifle, or both.

[@joshuawood1436]

Because ruger cold forges stainless steel actions. They were buitl stronger than military recievers were.

[@dororo3118]

I could be wrong here, but if ruger were to change the design to take ar15 mags, I feel they would sell better.

[@MrDmthomp32]

I’m not a fan of the rock and lock mags. Using AR mags would be a great idea.

[@rodneyalaking8241]

I agree. Everyone has a few dozen PMAGs in their safe.

[@oldmangreywolf6892]

Ruger makes an AR platform. AR556 and the new SFAR chambered in 308. (small frame armalite rifle.) Same body but wider magwell and 30 cal barrel.

[@dororo3118]

@@oldmangreywolf6892 I already have enough ar's. A mini 14 that took ar mags would sell me on one. It's the same reason a lot of pcc's like the keltec sub2000 are offered in glock mags. And like was mentioned in the video, ar mags are way cheaper than ruger mags.

[@oldmangreywolf6892]

@@dororo3118 Well people more use to AK platforms don't complain about the mini mags. But the reason the AR mags are cheaper, more companies make ARs. Only Ruger makes the Mini 14 and 30. But they do have polymer mags for mini as well. Cheaper then the Ruger made ones. I own 5 Precision Mags for my mini. 40 rounds. One original 30 round from Ruger and two Precision Mags at 30 rounds. I think the max for the AR was 30 round mags. Unless you get the drum.

[@bat5917]

The mini 14 doesn’t have that sinister commando look, as you pointed out. I think that’s still a big draw in these “identity” times. For practical, real world self defense they punch the ticket, without the negative styling cues. It’s like carrying a lever gun in the window rack… Looking forward to part 2

[@protoculture289]

I have a few AR’s but, have my mini with wood furniture for home defense so it doesn’t look as scary in a courtroom in the event of a self defense case

[@Rossski]

The A-Team stock would help

[@bat5917]

@@Rossski Ah, yes! The pistol grip in lieu of stock. I don’t know the proper term for that, but it sure makes it easy to spray rounds all over the place.

[@KonaLife]

@@protoculture289 Great idea. I have an AR and a mini 14 as well and if I ever am in the position of needing to grab one and a home defense situation, I’ll be grabbing the mini first.

[@Dylan.More-Veiny]

@@protoculture289 the fudd lore is strong with this one

[@brianfitzpatrick1183]

Being the type of person who doesn't like a lot of frills and always wanting to be a little different, I bought a Mini 14. So glad I did. Classic looks and very reliable. Accuracy hasn't been a problem with mine. I absolutely love mine

[@natarito2056]

My Dad passed away and I inherited his old Ranch Rifle. I've loved it for having been his once and it's resemblance to the M-14 and M1 Garand. It's never given me trouble and is always a pleasure to shoot. Not as functional as my AR-15, but is 100% still a weapon if it needs to be. I hope Ruger keeps it around and even continues to improve on it. I'll certainly never give mine away.

[@joshuawood1436]

What function does your pastic ar do that the ranch rifle can't? Have a million attahcments oyu don't need? be heavier whiel made of plastic? Be uglier? Less reliable? Cost more? I don't see the upside.

[@ianmuller2769]

The quiet approach to the bench with Fall backdrop was excellent. Very reminiscent of old school gun TV. Really appreciate what you & your team do for this history.

[@flat-earther]

ian I suggest watch a 13 part series called _What on earth happened_ by Ewaranon to learn that the earth is not a globe. I got it in my about tab.

[@rugcarpet5424]

@@flat-earther it is a globe tho

[@flat-earther]

@@rugcarpet5424 I suggest watching the series first to learn stuff you may not have heard before. There is no curvature so it can't be a globe. Many people have measured for curvature on large frozen lakes and found none but you don't have to believe them because you can test it yourself.

[@CJB-]

No this kind of thing turns up in new schools all the time.

[@borkwoof696]

@@flat-eartherI‘m really sorry for you

[@thearthriticironworker2321]

Had one for years, not accurate past 100 yards but it will always fire, no matter the ammo, conditions ect. Never had a jam or misfire over thousands of rounds.

[@scottgibson6735]

I bought a 50’ DeFever in .1984,that came with a stainless steel Ruger Mini14.Imloved that rifle.I called it Pirate repellent,though in reality,any pirate would lekely be much better armed.Ironically,the one time,I thought I might need it ,it turned ou t to be a false alarm.We were motoring from Provodenciales to puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.the mountains of Haiti had appeared on the horizon,just before sunset.After,dinner,and a Johnnie Walker Black,I noticed two radar targets about 20 miles out.On e off the port bow,and one off the starboard.I continued to watch them.They maintained their bearing,and continued to close in on us.One of the things,I had done to prepare for this voyage,was to have a topp tier SSBi,professionally installed,to the tune,of roughly$3000 1985 dollars.So when'I knew they were on an intercept course,I,picked up the mike' and called Miami Coast Guard.Miami USCG,answered,almost immediately .Iplained my situation,and said,I was almost embarrassed to call them..He said”Nootka at all Mr.Gibson,I might have done the same thing myself.He asked me to call,Cape Hatteras Coast Guard.and tell them what was going on.I dialed in,anew frequency,and gave them a calll.They had been talking to Miami,so they answered right away.Inrepeated my situation again.They said “We’re here for you,What can I do for you right now?I explained not much at the moment,except Listen for my calls.He assured me their radio was manned24 hours per day.Inwatched my mystery targets,come within110 miles,and then start gradually moving away.I never saw anything of the boats that had worried me.That is just one of the reasons,you will never hear me say anything derogatory about theUSCG.And you can bet,Iwas happy about the money'I spent on thatSSB radio

[@EddieLeal]

As retired military I have a fascination with firearms. While I do have pistols I have never owned a rifle of my own. During my time in the service I always lugged Uncle Sams M16A2 around. So I would love to own one of these rifles. All models of Ruger's Mini-14 semi-automatic rifles have a solid reputation for being absolutely reliable under all conditions, and have proven themselves in both law enforcement and military use worldwide.

[@johnpugh327]

Bought one new in the early 2000's and have never regretted it. A great rifle for what it is. Not a match rifle but, a great gun for the woods and field. Tried a scope (which Ruger provided the mounts for with the gun) , but would much rather use the open sights. A well made and dependable firearm. Thanks so much Bill Ruger.

[@flat-earther]

John Pugh I suggest watch a 13 part series called _What on earth happened_ by Ewaranon to learn that the earth is not a globe. I got it in my about tab.

[@TameImpala521]

Bill Ruger was such a fudd, it’s a miracle he allowed it to release with 20 round magazines

[@bxbalisong5776]

@@TameImpala521 FR Bill Ruger was one of the advocates of the ten round magazine leading up to and during the assault weapons ban

[@FinalLugiaGuardian]

Bill Ruger didn't design the Mini 14. Mini-14's designer was L. James "Jim" Sullivan.

[@jeffnpatricia]

Agree 100%. The open sights are more then adequately efficient

[@ChristopherKnN]

The first time I handled a Mini 14 was a select fire model as a Marine Security Guard. I asked why we didn't have our standard A2s at the embassy. The answer was because the Mini was not considered an offensive weapon despite being full auto over the 3 round burst on the A2. We also had .357 revolvers instead of the Beretta. But we also had full auto Uzis. This was in '93.

[@woodrowcall3158]

Makes sense. /s

[@cristianespinal9917]

Hahaha. That's a great set of arms, but so strange. I can't imagine being issued a Mini-14, revolver, or Uzi. Did you have to do the annual rifle qual with the Mini-14, or did you qual with the M-16?

[@ChristopherKnN]

@@cristianespinal9917 M-16. But pistol qual was with the revolver using double action only.

[@connorperrett9559]

"Excuse me, sir, did you just give me a sucking chest wound with an offensive weapon?!" "Nah, I used my Mini 14." "Understandable. Have a great day."

[@bwofficial1776]

The M-16 looks assaulty and scary. The Mini-14 looks like grandpa's hunting rifle and the wheelgun looks like an old-timey peace officer's sidearm.

[@agcatdriver]

I carried a Mini-14 as my first patrol rifle back in the late 90’s when I was a police officer here in rural Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol had them as their standard issue patrol carbine up until they began allowing troopers to purchase their own Colt LE model AR’s. I had the law enforcement GB model, and it was always 100% reliable and surprisingly accurate. Only complaint I ever had was that no one made a reliable aftermarket magazine for it, and the Ruger magazines were just stupid expensive. Had Ruger have had the forethought to make the Mini-14 compatible with AR magazines, things would have been different I believe.

[@TommyboyGTP]

A few years ago before the great unpleasantness of 2020, I picked up a LE trade-in 580 series stainless Mini synthetic stock with a threaded barrel and flash hider for under 500 beans. I put on a Choate hand guard and found a wood stock to go with it. Shoots great and has ran 100% no matter what ammo I fed it. I'll never get rid of it.

[@chrisriker6421]

I bought my first Mini14 in 1975 and still have it. It's gone through many iterations since then and has a ton of toys that I've bought through the years. I have 3 Mini's total and have no complaints with any of them after some minor issues were corrected. My kids grew up learning on 10/22's before getting their own Mini's on their 14th birthdays. Today both are near 40 and still have and shoot these great rifles. My oldest 2 grandsons now have their own Mini's as well as AR15's. We are and always will be a 2A family with great Mini15 leading the way!!! 🎉🎉

[@zachscott4867]

Similar story from a family friend for 5 bills with two factory mags. It’s unique and it’s nice to have something different that shoots the same caliber.

[@ogbobbye]

I had a mini 14 when they first came out and loved it. a few years later I foolishly sold it when I joined the army. after my enlistment I always wanted another just never got around to replacing it. a few years ago, the gun shop I go to had a sale on their house built AR 15. I had the AR in hand about to buy it when I looked up and saw a mini 14 on the wall paid almost twice what the AR was selling for and walked out with a mini 14 still happy with my choice. looking forward to watching part 2

[@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798]

Sometimes...you just know when you made a right decision....

[@sauerkrautjr]

@@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798 emotionally, it makes sense. Logically, I struggle to see the math work unless you're married to Garand-style manuals of arms

[@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798]

@@sauerkrautjr not every rifle needs to be minute of angle sniper rifle...most Bambi and Wile C. Coyote go down at the100/200 yard range.... Course, if all you do is target practice then by all means,knock yourself out...

[@sauerkrautjr]

@@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798 nothing about the mini makes it better for hunting than an AR. I'd also argue against using either for hunting deer, as .223 really strains the limits of legal and ethical cartridge selection for whitetail-sized game. There could be an interesting discussion about the Mini-30 at that point, but then again-- unless you live in a "progressive" state, just get an AR in 300 Blackout or 350 legend. I will not accept excuses for less-accurate firearms when they don't have other qualities that recommend them.

[@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798]

@@sauerkrautjr good enough points. Guess if you could only have one rifle.. I'll enjoy the mini just the same..

[@phprofYT]

Love that old film line at 1:14 "the m-14 is a light weight shoulder weapon ...". Light weight compared to what? An M2 50 cal?

[@northmanlogging2769]

ever picked up a Garand?

[@QuentinQuatermass]

Thanks for this good video! I'm an older guy, Vietnam Vet, so do like older style rifles as well as modern ARs. I got a 580 series Mini-14 years ago for the exact reasons mentioned in the video - it fits the gap between my M1A and M1 Carbine. Usually I just shoot my ARs but sometimes you just want to go old school though still have handy "goldilocks" 5.56/.223 ammo. I'm hanging on to the old Ruger a little longer even though it falls short of a good AR-15. If it had been designed from day one to use AR magazines it would have been much more successful.

[@wayneantoniazzi2706]

I remember hearing "They should have built the Mini-14 to tak an AR mag!" WAY back when! But personally I don't see how it could have been done without a major redesign ot the basic Garand action. Most Mini users at the time really didn't seem to mind anyway, the real Ruger produced mags in 10 and 20 shot capacity were rugged as hell, much more robust than the AR mags.

[@Weedss74]

Bill Ruger hates civilians

[@ericrumpel3105]

....ruger didn't go with ar mags when the mini came out because the ar, at that time, was such a failure,....still is, but,....consensus is the masses are getting dumber.......so there's that....

[@Weedss74]

@ericrumpel3105 bill Ruger said he didn't believe civilians should have over 10 round magazines

[@jazzandbluesculturalherita2547]

@QuentinQuatermass A .223-caliber mouse gun could NEVER "fit the gap" between the M-1A and M1 Carbine, both .30-caliber rifles.

[@lowcountrydawg2525]

It's a great limited-duty rifle, I love mine. My biggest complaint with it is how far it throws the spent shells. I always have to be at the far right on the shooting range because it slings the brass 20'+.

[@grantgarrod2232]

It does so because the rifle has an over-large gas port bushing , which gives very reliable function, but also slings your brass into the next county. FYI, there are places who sell and/or install smaller diameter bushings, which eases or eliminates this. One company, Accuracy Systems, even makes a replacement gas block that is fully owner adjustable.

[@johnc6655]

I own a few of the "scary" rifles. But, I've still always wanted a mini. They have been hard to find the past few years, but yesterday I found one at my local shop. They had recently got 1 in. I'm very happy and pleased to have added it to my collection

[@phillipmargrave]

Nice

[@user-nb8yt2il2r]

Mini14s are not very good, they have the same accuracy as an ak and the mags ar 20+ dollars a piece and require rocking in vs straight in

[@bigpas]

@@user-nb8yt2il2r 😀😀😀Mini's run just fine. Accuracy is fine for most people and with the refining Ruger has done it has only gotten better. AK are also pretty accurate,,,just ask any old vietnam vet.

[@kaptkrunkreno]

I bought 2 of them, 1 wood/ 1 synthetic, 26 years ago. Sold them to buy a wedding ring. Man, I still miss those rifles.

[@Thompsonarmsandgaming]

@@kaptkrunkreno what happened to the marriage

[@Dollsteak69]

Back in the day I wanted something in 762x39. Picked up a mini 30 for the farm property in SW Minnesota. What a perfect fit. Can pluck apples at large front yard distances, coyotes, don't have to worry about beating it up on the 4 wheeler, Kubota, and it didn't freak the neighbors out in the early 90's. $500 new. Still around. Awesome vid.

[@Mrkeats5487]

And it’s a great rifle to have😀 the mags are eazy to find 7.62x39 is a great low cost round. That can reach out to 400 , how can you go wrong with a tuff wood stock for the truck or dirt toy . A wicked middle caliber and rifle to teach new gun shooters the joys of putting lead down range . Yes Chris you are 100% correct .

[@fbksfrank4]

I got the Chinese SKS.

[@D.A_1988]

You get light primer strikes with steel ammo?

[@boondocker7964]

I've got a Mini 30, keeps me feeling secure.

[@fbksfrank4]

@@D.A_1988 no, one serial number weapon, amazing accurate until I changed the stock to a folding one. A really robust action.

[@ricoswartz345]

I own many semi auto rifles but the mini 14 has always been my favorite of them. Last year I bought a mini 30 in 7.62x39 which I also really like.

[@AverageGIJoeOutdoors]

thats a great round. a nice little thumper I bet

[@donalddoty5768]

How hard does it kick as opposed to the 14?

[@donjulio5045]

Could never justify the mini 30... I have an sks

[@bawbremy]

Can you use steel cased 7.63x39 ammo in the mini-30?

[@ricoswartz345]

@@donalddoty5768 a hair more of a kick than my 14

[@bigbobw9253]

I've had mine since 1982. Still one of my favorite guns.

[@HMuny55]

I have my dads from back in the early 80's and its a GEM to shoot. I feel like it fits a nice middle ground for people that want a semi auto rifle that still has a wood stock and old feel without looking hyper militaristic like the current AR's

[@cdgonepotatoes4219]

Agree. If you look around, there really isn't any choice on that front besides maybe the SKS, of which there's only military surplus.

[@RADIOACTIVEBUNY]

Yeah but if you get you the paratrooper stock, oh man is that slick. Classic look, there.

[@star-spangledfemboy8114]

New-ish shooter here, I love my ARs, but I absolutely adore my mini-14 and mini-30! It's hard to explain, but that wood-and-stainless feel just satisfies the soul. I'll freely admit they're not the "best" rifles, but they are far and away my favorite!

[@fiveowaf454]

Well said, I have the same relationship with my Mini 14 and 30 and my AR's.

[@corbindallas1954]

I get it lol

[@Logic44]

My uncle has a Mini-30, so I understand the hype, it looks amazing, and it functions amazing too! I love how one of the only differences between the two is caliber, both are intermediate cartridges, however.

[@davidma6616]

I'm almost done watching this video but had to pause just to comment on the high quality editing. It's like a full on documentary. Oh I see, half a million subs. LOL very well deserved!

[@someguysomewheresouthern6290]

I’ve got a mini-30 and the oh so weird mini-14 target with a thumb hole stock. I keep both at our farm, but don’t think either has come out of the safe in 15 years. AR’s and bolt guns just seem to work much “easier” nowadays. Great vid!

[@life_of_riley88]

Agreed, I've got a stainless mini-thirty with a gorgeous walnut stock. Looks great, shoots like crap, and gets left in the safe.

[@kyleyung4145]

Its funny, I have a few buddies who love their ARs in everything from .223, .308/ 6.5 yet they always seem to have the most fun when shooting my families mini-14 =)

[@ViktoriousDead]

@@life_of_riley88 is it one of the old ones?

[@wizkaqueefa9003]

@@kyleyung4145 IMO, the Cartridges DESIGNED for 14.5"-16" Barrels work BETTER in ARs than .308/5.56 (6.8SPC & 7.62X39 are both Preferred by Spec Ops/SEALS/Iraq Vets)

[@wizkaqueefa9003]

@@kyleyung4145 Just so you get 100% of the Juice of those Intermediate Cartridges out of 14"-16" Barrels, Whereas .223/.308 REALLY NEED 18"/20" Barrels for that max potential velocity.

[@LilOutdoorsmangoogleplus]

Hey Chris, I just wanted to say that this was an extremely well done production. Your channel has been producing some of the most high quality gun information videos on KZbin. It is a breath of fresh air to watch a clean cut straightforward production with no unnecessary blabbing and politics.

[@flat-earther]

liloutdoor I suggest watch a 13 part series called _What on earth happened_ by Ewaranon to learn that the earth is not a globe. I got it in my about tab.

[@Stigstigster]

@@flat-earther That's a waste of time because the Earth is absolutely, unequivocally, definitely and demonstrably a globe. Flat Earth is a dangerous form of conspiracy thought because if a person can be convinced the Earth is flat and not a globe then they can be convinced of absolutely anything. You spreading this is therefore dangerous and a form of intellectual poison, no less. Plus it is utterly moronic and completely disprovable whilst your claims of flat Earth are not provable and is completely destroyed by a plethora of evidence. I have also personally and demonstrably proved the Earth must at the very least be curved to myself, before you start down that line. Your nonsense is neither wanted nor needed here that's for sure.

[@flat-earther]

@@Stigstigster Many people have measured large frozen lakes for curvature and found none but you don't have to believe them because you can test it yourself.

[@Stigstigster]

@@flat-earther I have proved the curvature myself. I have filmed a double sunset by watching the sun disappear below the horizon at sunset, raised altitude of my drone again by only fifty feet and seen the whole sun again. Impossible on a flat surface. Before that I used the cliffs near my home to do the same. Also used the same cliffs to see sandy beaches that I could not see near sea level on the neighbouring islands. I also watch numerous ships arrive to supply us, you know how they come up over the curve when you see them with your own eyes. That is just for my own observations. A multitude of secondary sources to my own eyes have been confirming the shape of the Earth for literally 2000 years or more. I spent two years as my evening hobby arguing with people like you. No evidence for curvature will convince you. I have little time for you these days. I spare you two minutes of my time for old time's sake and to combat your nonsense here on this channel where it is not welcome, that is all.

[@johnschofield9496]

Unfortunately guns and politics will always travel in the same circles, mainly due to the Democrat's obsession with denying them to us.

[@thomasd9237]

The 14 is a solid, stable, reliable little workhorse.

[@miketakacs4701]

So.. I love the mini 14. I bought a couple 30 years ago because they were half as much as an AR. Back then AR rifles were Colts and cost $600. I bought two mini 14s for less than that. Now a cheap AR is $600 and a mini 14 full retail is double that!?!?! I can’t believe they’re still selling.

[@tylerbennett3057]

A lot of what keeps the mini hanging on seems to be the aesthetic, and the brand loyalty now that customer service has become top notch (in my experiences) . I purchased a threaded 580 series new about 10 years ago, and all I can say is use thick oil and Ruger factory mags. It won't let you down if you look after it. Certainly not "AK tough" but I'd bet on it.

[@immikeurnot]

The AK isn't as "tough" as you think. The AR15 makes it look bad.

[@gundude82]

I'd bet most of the mini-14 sales are to ban states. Bill Ruger seemed really good at keeping it off "assault weapon" ban lists.

[@shockwave6213]

@@immikeurnot Most US manufacturers think the AK was made as cheap as humanly possible, so they made cheap pieces of shit out of the worst materials that can grenade on you after 2,000 rounds or so (looking at you WASR 10), but in reality, this was a fallacy. Proper Soviet AKs were made using steel forgings and strong metal. They did not fuck around with small arms. If you want an AK how it was REALLY supposed to be, you get a Com Bloc parts kit and build it into a rifle yourself or send it to the pros like AK Guy.

[@TimberwolfCY]

@@shockwave6213 Starting to think you haven't seen InRangeTV's AK mud test yet.

[@SuicideVan]

I'd rather not deal with customer service at all. If my AR 15's have a problem I fix it on the kitchen table. Ruger makes crappy guns, that's why everyone raves about their customer service, because the buyer is the beta tester.

[@brucej4414]

Back in the late seventies, the Mini-14 was my first duty rifle. It remained my duty rifle for at least a decade before being retired and replaced by the Colt 6920LE. The only problems experienced with the Mini-14 were with non-Ruger magazines.

[@Southernguitar74]

Yep, non-Ruger mags are a no go in this rifle. Unfortunately the Ruger mags are crazy expensive too.

[@eatdafat7101]

Same with the mini-30. Hit or miss if an aftermarket mag will work.

[@TonaldDrump686]

The 30’s I got for my 30, have the hole in the wrong spot. Had them 15 years and now have actual ruger mags so I can compare them. A few moments with a tig welder and a drill could solve the issue. By hole I mean the part of the mag that goes over the dowel in the mag well. The cartridges point down rather than up towards the chamber.

[@monkeybarmonkeyman]

Bought the stainless steel version in 1981... kept it until 1999... awesome weapon. It was very sensitive to ammo tho, typically not liking cheap brands. Cost me ~400-500 dollars. Honestly don't remember 🙂 Fun part was firing this baby. Gas discharged at the end of the rifle literally formed a cross. Such a great weapon.

[@WiseguyThreeOne]

The biggest flaw in Mini-14 accuracy is they have been made in three different rifling twists. You have to go by date and serial number to figure out if you've got 1:12, 1:7, or 1:9. Ammo selection then drives your accuracy results. I had one that was destined to go behind enemy state lines that held within an inch at 50 because it was a 1:7 barrel that liked 855.

[@san_diegan69diegan27]

Uh... the twist is not stamped on the barrel? I shot my friend's back in the early 80s shooting 55gr spire point Hornady handloads. 1/2 inch groups at 100 yards. Factory rifle.

[@harolddalesr8365]

Mini 14 was not design for Accuracy. It was design for farmers , ranchers and other who really do not care or do manitance. Sorry for the spelling. Design along the lines of the infamous AK. It,ll take more dirt , grime without cleaning. No flinckt like the AR,s.

[@rashiro]

@@harolddalesr8365 that's complete bullshit, it's a short stroke piston system that's wide open to get filled with dirt and debris. It's harder to disassemble, work on, or replace parts on than the AR. It costs more, takes less available magazines, and is harder to mount optics on. It's dumb platform for any serious use.

[@ironmatic1]

@@harolddalesr8365 Did you just call ARs finicky? Are you a time traveler from 1975?

[@ranchodeluxe1]

@@rashiro Fuck. Let's go shooting and see who breks down first. I have AR platform guns. None of them are anywhere near as reliable as my Mini. Not even close. It could not be easier to disassemble. The magazines are vastly superior to the cheesy aftermarket AR plastic mags. You get the same thousand bucks in any decent AR, you just get reliability with the Mini. I have seen these things hideously abused by the ranchers here in cowboy country. I've seen a rancher dump water out of the barrel, then shoot a coyote with it.

[@thebigt42]

It doesn't die because it isn't a "Scary AR"

[@TheCoon1975]

Yes that probably helps that it's not banned in so many places even though it's functionally identical to the AR.

[@railfanningpoints2.045]

@@TheCoon1975 The Democrats want to ban all semiautomatic rifles.

[@dgambrel9241]

I love my mini 14. I don’t think they are worth 1k but when they were 5-600 it was worth it

[@michaeltaylors2456]

Yep

[@flat-earther]

Gambrel I suggest watch a 13 part series called _What on earth happened_ by Ewaranon to learn that the earth is not a globe. I got it in my about tab.

[@fiveowaf454]

Buying the stainless model is the best value IMO, there are not many fully stainless semi-auto rifles available, that gives it an edge for certain uses over my AR's. If you go with the standard model then unless it's what you really want in terms of its traditional looks, then price wise it doesn't stack up well against it's alternatives. Having said that price is related to demand and they always seem to fly off the shelves in good times and bad, so while we may think the price is too high, obviously others do not.

[@Spartan265]

@@flat-earther The earth is in fact a globe. Even the ancient Greeks and shit knew that.

[@lordofthewoods]

@@fiveowaf454 Yep... everybody criticizes the wood stock, but I have a TACTICAL (mod# 5888, the newer FOLDER) I got BRAND-NEW less than 2 years ago (in trade for TWO DERRINGERS!) that can do sub-MOA 3-shot groups with its favorite ammo (Hornady Superformance Match 5.56 75 gr. BTHP). Now it DOES get tighter groups due to the heavy Cobray megaphone that I've replaced the factory flash hider with, but that's part of a long story found in my previous comment above : )

[@josephdixon1827]

I owned a Mini-14 GB model. I purchased it off of my sisters then boyfriend. I had all kinds of rust problems and it forever would drift its zero. So, I had the rifle parkerized, even its magazines, gotten an after market rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation. ( via ) knobs on the rear sight, I also replaced the sling swivels so I could use the military slip sling. After that, the rust problem was solved, it held its zero and was a lot more accurate shooting and the wider sling made it more comfortable to carry in the woods.

[@romeovalverde9434]

Excellent video. I bought and still have my mini 14 back in 1977 (made in 1976 so it's stamped as a bicentennial year) love it.

[@michaelfregoe5875]

I have a Mini-30 thats been worked professionally for accuracy and trigger pull. It's my go-to rifle in the thick forest for northeastern whitetail deer. 50 yard shots are considered long shots in those areas. The quick follow up shot, short rifle, easy handling, reliable and not having those "evil" black rifle features (that get them banned) make it the perfect rifle for my specific area/style of hunting.

[@ralphdavis6052]

How much did the accuracy and trigger work run?

[@michaelfregoe5875]

@@ralphdavis6052 The work was performed by Accuracy Systems Inc. in Colorado. I have no affiliation with the company whatsoever with exception of being a happy customer. I hope this helps.

[@benjustbenwilldo2215]

Nice gun super practical and I'm a sucker for the sporting looks and handling. I appreciate the trouble you have taken to dig through some of the history of an interesting firearm.

[@AaronMichaelLong]

Same here, I've always liked the aesthtics of the M14 and the Mini-14.

[@flat-earther]

benjust I suggest watch a 13 part series called _What on earth happened_ by Ewaranon to learn that the earth is not a globe. I got it in my about tab.

[@fiveowaf454]

For me the Mini 14 feels much nicer and better balanced than my AR's and somehow a lot more compact. Many seem to find all sorts of things they don't like about the Mini, but many of those come from people brought up now with the AR platform, this makes so many things seem awkward operation wise to them, where as if you come from a background of more traditional firearms the Mini seem very intuitive and easy to learn. When I got my first AR15, I found a number of things I had to adapt to, including the pistol grip, the safety switch position and to this day I dislike the charging handle location.

[@sue08401]

My brother was a crew chief in Vietnam and swore by his M14. He used to point at the boxes of 7.62 rounds carried for the M60 (I think it was 1000 rounds a box) and said how many M16 clips do you have -- this is mine (plus he had 10 clips loaded. Plus it never jammed.

[@Redfour5]

Went looking for part two... not there yet, darn... I got mine around seven or so years ago, stainless black plastic furniture at Walmart before they quit selling them at Christmas time when they used to have like a 20% discount. I was right around 700 bucks. Being an old school guy going through USMC boot camp with an M14 and shooting 248 out of 250 with it on the rifle range I loved it. They gave an an M16A1 to me and it was the most worthless POS I ever shot and so I was soured on the AR platform. I must admit it made a decent hose, but they wouldn't let us do much like that. My most favorite aspect of the mini-14 it is how "handy" it is. Growing up on lever action and a single shot 22, old school stock design is instinctual for me and the mini 14 has that. I can pull it up without aiming and nail a fencepost at 100 yards...every time center mass equivalent height, no effort... I do have a dot sight but have taken it off since off hand 50 years of shooting is as good with less effort at 50 to 75 yards... So, while someone else is pulling theirs up and trying to see the dot on the target, I'm done already... I used to shoot bumble bees from the hip with my red ryder as a kid... And I didn't shoot my eye out... AR's actually take more effort to pull up and sight or shoot, stuff in the way... And all the "picatinny" based bells and whistles? I'll pass. You can bang it around and everything is still in place, no need to go, oh, did I put my sight off banging it, oh let me check make sure everything is in place, let me flip it from side to side so I can see both sides to make sure everything is in place, oh and... Yeah, I watch people at the range with all their accoutrement... Snap it up and shoot.

[@jackrackham3406]

I'm excited for Part 2! My guess as to its staying power is ban states like mine (where it's way, way easier to get a compliant Mini-14 than to jump through the hoops for an AR), and in a role similar to, like, an HK-43 clone or an AUG, for when you want a functional rifle but you're tired of ARs. I'd be really excited to see a Part 3 digging into what Ruger could've done differently to keep the Mini competitive!

[@floydvaughn9666]

Ruger should start making them again. But...in 243 and 17 magnum. And 5.56, of course.

[@georgewhitworth9742]

@@floydvaughn9666 ...they are in 5.56?

[@DH-bd7gr]

I think building them in a newer cartridge like 6.5 Grendel or 458 Socom or some other 5.56 sized cartridge would be a nice update.

[@lordofthewoods]

@@georgewhitworth9742 Yep.. mine is 5.56 (mod# 5888 Tactical); and in fact, you MAY only have to be concerned about firing 5.56 in the .223 TARGET versions, but DON'T TAKE MY WORD FOR IT, since it's a never-ending debate! AND mine is COMPETITIVE, albeit with a FREAKY muzzle device (a heavy, 30 year-old Cobray megaphone): Sub-MOA 3-shot groups using LPVO with it's favorite ammo (Hornady Superformance Match 5.56 75 gr. BTHP) AND I just tested the thermal for the first time in six months, using generic Remington .223 55 gr... cold, first shot 1/4" from DEAD-CENTER @ 100 yds., followed quickly by four more within a 4-inch square, so... I'M HAPPY.

[@SuicideVan]

@@lordofthewoods lol you're a liar is what you are. You don't shoot anything sub-MOA with a Mini 14, especially with long boat tail ammo.

[@aw8388]

Back in the mid 80's I bought a mini-30. It was the most fun in a firearm I ever had. Soviet era steel case rounds were as cheap as 22 lr in cases we peeled like canned hams. I blasted thousands of rounds. For years I hunted in thick woods, and it was my go to deer rifle. Out to 50 yards, no scope, iron sights. Fun fun fun....

[@jacktowers7533]

That brief period where they chambered in 6.8 SPC is kinda like this perfect final pinnacle of the Garand lineage that being The Garand, M14, 30 Carbine and the Mini itself it was a fantastic marriage of what all previous three sought to achieve but when it beefed up to 6.8 SPC for that limited run it had that extra power from a better round and perfected it, that iteration of the Ruger Mini was about as close as you'd get for a Goldilocks rifle, of being right in the middle of a Pistol Caliber and a battle rifle I wish they still made it cuz it could actually outdo the AR a lot all it needed was a Fun Switch and a meaner aesthetic and rail features for military use

[@jwilliams3170]

I have an use ARs for duty and play but there is just something that has always driven me to wanting a Mini-14. I think it really is because I have always loved that traditional look of a firearm. Same reason I really want an M1 Carbine

[@SuicideVan]

If you want traditional looks and action try to scare up a CZ 527 carbine. I'll admit I enjoyed the manual of arms on my Mini 14, but the accuracy and reliability issues had me grabbing my AR 15's instead. If you already have an AR it's just a better rifle and like me once the newness wears off you'll likely rarely if ever shoot the Mini 14. Edit: I'd go with the M1 Carbine as it has the cool factor of WW2 paratrooper heritage.

[@RADIOACTIVEBUNY]

The M1 Carbine and Mini-14 were the light semi-auto rifles that held down many a fort before the AR became so popular.

[@bwofficial1776]

@@RADIOACTIVEBUNY The '94-'04 ban went a long way in making the AR as popular as it is today. The ban made everyone wonder "what's so bad about those rifles that they had to ban them? I should find out for myself." Then everyone realized that a modular rifle was pretty practical and easy to handle.

[@jwilliams3170]

@@SuicideVan I have been intrigued by the CZ and yeah I really think if I got something along the lines of the Mini or the M1 Carbine, realistically I’d probably go for the carbine

[@SuicideVan]

@@jwilliams3170 I checked CZ's website recently thinking about buying a second one for my son for Christmas and was surprised the 527 carbine was discontinued. It really is an incredible little rifle for the money. Mine has been sub MOA out of the box, excellent trigger/set trigger, very light and well balanced, and an 18" barrel for proper velocity. I keep mine loaded and ready by the back door at my ranch and I've bagged several rabbits, a few coyotes, and even a mountain lion in my pasture. If I didn't have cattle I'd have a feeder up and sure scored sone hogs or deer too with it. Topped with a 3-9x there's not a whole lot it can't do

[@carlawhite6455]

Simply the best review I have seen on the Ruger mini 14. Thank you for uploading a rifle that holds a lot of nostalgia for me. I’ve probably owned a dozen different configurations of the Ruger mini 14 as well as a NFA registered a C556KF. Just simply a wonderful gun.

[@flat-earther]

Carla I suggest watch a 13 part series called _What on earth happened_ by Ewaranon to learn that the earth is not a globe. I got it in my about tab.

[@rollinmckim4719]

VERY informative video. Thanks! Headed for Part II right now.

[@michaelhorn4540]

I've had numerous ar15s from colt and numerous other manufacturers over the years, but they never felt right in the hands for me with a pistol grip. I'm old fashioned and I still love a rifle like a mini 14, M1A, or m1 carbine and shoot much better with that style of rifle.

[@sixoaksfarm1556]

I think the "baby M-14"look serves it well and keeps it relevant. I know a lot of farmer friends of mine still use them often.

[@danieljones595]

The Mini 14 is one of my favorite guns. It's such a handsome design with great practical applications. Looking forward to this series!

[@tommyt8998]

Good video. I have a 181 series mini from the early 80s. It's a 5-inch grouper at 100 yards when it gets hot. I would like it to be a little more accurate, but it serves its intended purpose well, a highly reliable light handy defense carbine for shots up to 100 yards. I am surprised about your comments on reliability. I keep my rifle lubed and clean, and in about 1500 yards it has never jammed or stove piped. I also think the piston system is superior to AR 15 direct gas impingent system that dumps a lot of burnt powder junk back into the action. Given the economics, I agree that the M4 is a better buy today, but not so much better in function for me to switch out. Always enjoy your videos.

[@QuietMikeW]

What a great presentation, tv show quality, would love this history of particular guns to be a series.

[@ApurtureSci]

In the UK the Mini 14 is the cheapest straight-pull centrefire rifle you can get. I got mine a few years back for £400 and ended up spending the same again on the Samson folding stock. Mine came with an old LE-Only marked 20 round mag. Even as a manually operated rifle it's great fun and I simply love the aesthetic, I'll never sell it!

[@Jeff-hp3vn]

So sad it has to be bastardized(rifle). Sad UK laws suck

[@kenofken9458]

How do you have one of those in the UK? Last I knew semi-auto was not legal in anything other than .22 rimfire.

[@marcusborderlands6177]

@@kenofken9458 not a semi auto. It's a straight pull

[@kenofken9458]

@@marcusborderlands6177 I almost forgot those existed. I think I only ever heard of it in the context of the UK. I didn't realize Ruger made one like that but it makes sense. Even with all the semi-auto options here, I'm kind of a fan of bolt action. You waste less ammo and it forces you to learn the long-lost art of actually aiming.

[@ApurtureSci]

@@kenofken9458 Ruger have been good to UK shooters over the years. Not only did they manufacture the Mini 14 in multiple configurations as a straight pull (Including Ranch and GB models, and the Mini 30), but they also made a batch of UK-legal Super Redhawk revolvers with 20" (yes, twenty inch) barrels. They made 100 in .357 and 100 in .44 Mag I believe - today they sell for well over £2000. Semi-autos never should have been banned, but that is the situation and I still enjoy shooting regardless.

[@JP_Patriot]

The safety is in a perfectly fine location. He’s says “you gotta put your finger in the trigger guard to use it”. Okay. However, you only do so when you are taking it OFF of safe - meaning you’re wanting to fire. After flicking it off safe, your finger is conveniently on the trigger. To put it on safe, you can keep all fingers out of the trigger guard. The only ones that complain about this gun - at least from my experience - are people that are dedicated to ARs or people that refuse to believe that older designs are still effective. The mini-14 is completely reasonable. Especially after the barrel upgrade - models 580+. There isn’t much reason to not get one if you’re considering it - other than the price, perhaps.

[@Felix-xv3wg]

Found the mini-14 seller

[@JP_Patriot]

@@Felix-xv3wg Because I call out nonsensical complaints? Makes sense 😅 Slap it off safe and your finger is already set in trigger guard. To engage the safety, remove trigger finger from trigger guard and pull the safety back. Very simple. I’ve never had an issue. He complains because it’s “different”. Poor thing.

[@deepwoods_dave7368]

My first job was at a gun shop in the Adirondacks in 1986. I remember selling these and then the mini 30. Fun rifle. Never owned one though.

[@josephesquivel4066]

One thing coincidentally about being left-handed is the safety actually isn't that big a deal because it's on the left side of the trigger guard so we can actually flip it on and off without actually sticking the finger in the trigger guard.

[@fiveowaf454]

The safety design is for me one of the things I really like about the Mini and M14 design. When you are ready to fire it's really easy to check if the safety is on, or not, sometimes switching between different firearms that can be something I have to relearn so that I know which way safe and fire are, which can be difficult if you suffer a sudden brain fade in the dark. Yes there is a theoretical risk of the safety being in the trigger guard, but if you are aware of that I don't see it as being a real issue. In an SD situation, having your safety on, when you thought it was off, presents a bigger risk.

[@bradmiller9993]

I don't own one but I'd like to. I think they are a handsome looking rifle and if I found one at a gun shop looking for a new home, I'd buy it and add it proudly to my AR collection. Great video work, btw.

[@davidwhite5858]

This is the one gun that at least every home owner should own in America.

[@raged1]

I had a mini way back that I removed from the stock and dropped it into a Muzzlelite bull pup with a 90rd drum, but California! They do look dated and if I were to get another the first thing I would do is look for a cool enough stock that still keeps it legal. We used to get 10/22s in a bullpup and make them full auto. So much fun and since it was 22, not too expensive.

[@thomaswashburn3513]

Wow, I have something in common with the mini-14… I also first showed up in 1974 lol

[@thoreau5914]

I love everything about mine. The looks, the feel when I fire it, racking the rotating bolt, all that is fun. I don't compare it to my AR's, it is a different experience. I was fortunate to stumble upon one (the last one) on clearance at my local Walmart. Remember when Walmart decided to stop selling AR's to save us all? They continued to sell Mini 14's, not realizing Mini's fired the exact same cartridge and had high capacity mags too. Once they realized this they started dumping their Mini 14's. Got mine for $599 on clearance. I did have to put an adjustable gas block on it. It would beat the hell out of my scope with the ejected casings, it was so over gassed. I put some aftermarket trigger parts in also to lessen the trigger pull. Runs great now. I think I may just have to take it out tomorrow and ring some steel. Thanks for the very well done video on one of my favorite rifles.

[@dennisburcar457]

Great video about a great gun. In the military I was trained with the M-14 cal. 7.62, for me is a nostalgic item that takes me to a long gone era, but theini-14 stays in incredible working order after all this years since the 80s. The M-1 Garant, M-14 cal. 7.62 are part of this nostalgic feeling about this "family" of rifles, for this reason it will not die as far Ruges makes them

[@EricBrown]

This isn't just one of my favorite "Gun" channels on KZbin, this is just one of the best channels. Period. The production of these specific-gun deep dives is amazing. Thanks!

[@emak4558]

PS - your video productions are outstanding. Always informative and entertaining.

[@flat-earther]

@emak4558 I suggest watch a 13 part series called _What on earth happened_ by Ewaranon to learn that the earth is not a globe. I got it in my about tab.

[@farmwatchfarmwatch8745]

Outstanding video!!!!! Very well done. I wish others were as good

[@captfxco]

I have a 1980 vintage mini and I love it. I added a stabilizing strut to steady up the pencil barrel and it does everything I need it to do now. I have several AR platform rifles for various tasks, but I love the Mini for its classic looks. The two only drawbacks to the early models is the lack of a scope mount and the need to use only Ruger mags. Later models corrected this and Ruger added the heavier barrel to counteract barrel whip. You might find an aftermarket mag that works for you but I stick to genuine Ruger mags, they are always reliable. It's a great rifle, fires much cleaner than an AR and fires both the 5.56 and .223 rounds. If you can find one under a thousand bucks grab it.

[@rontruocchio5744]

i own that era mini and i too got better accuracy with the strut. i also polished the machine marks off the trigger mechanism and brought it down to a smooth 6.0 lbs from a grungy 7.5 just with some 800 paper

[@zman5387]

I have AR's, AK's, and Mini-14's. All good guns, but my favorite to shoot and handle is the mini-14. It is a solid and reliable rifle, and I just like the feel of the old M1 platform.

[@timwarheit4908]

It's also great for people who like Garand-style rifles but without the huge price tag(although they are a lot more expensive than they used to be).

[@AICW]

Mini-14s are reaching Garand level prices in California... once you add in the obscenely high sales taxes and unconstitutional Dealer Record of Sale or private party transfer fees you can easily pay 1100-1200 dollars for one... plus the $25 extortion fee for your Firearms Safety Card.

[@SolveFixBuild]

The first semi-auto rifle I ever shot was a Mini-14 and therefore it was the first I bought as an adult. It’s still my favorite gun in my gun cabinet.

[@lloydbowers8997]

Thanks for the informative video. This is probably the best for the Ruger Mini.

[@tedh7543]

Part one was awesome! This was incredibly well researched and presented. Can't wait for part two!

[@stellarpod]

REALLY good historical synopsis. I look forward to Part II. As always, thanks much for sharing. Steve

[@guyhoote8715]

In 1986 I bought both the Ruger Mini 14 and Mini 30. I loved both of those weapons. The thing I hated was, neither were accurate because of 1 in 10 barrel twist. It took me learning how to load my own ammo to get 2 m.o.a. at 100 yards. The Mini 14 hated 50 and 55 grn bullets. It loved 45 and 40 grn bullets. The Mini 30 found the Sierra pro hunter 123 grn bullet for success. I never put a scope on them. Shot a lot of coyotes and pack dogs attacking my chickens and sheep with the Mini 14. Took a few deer and a lot of hogs with Mini 14. Had a few magazine issues with the Mini 30. They still sit in my safe 36yrs later.

[@TankSniper]

I love mine. A major driving factor for getting one was the fact that ARs have become so widespread that its actually really hard for someone who doesn't already know to reliably find info on who is making what parts best for the cheapest, and its compounded by the companies making the better parts shuffling around every so many years so some folks swear by X while others swear by Y. Rather than trying to sift through the sea of opinions online it was better to go for the known quantity within price point (thats key here since I know more expensive ARs are good but also too expensive). Something few people consider for newer gun owners is the knowledge gap and that most folks won't know who does what better or worse, or some other bit of cruicial info that comes with proximity and experience to the gun community.

[@Itsamemario0510]

I think I understand your point but I'd still take a bone stock BCM over a mini-14 for a lot of the reasons you named.

[@bwofficial1776]

The '94 ban ironically helped drive the AR's popularity. Gun owners asked "what's so scary about that gun that they had to ban it? I should find out for myself." Then they found that a modular and ergonomic rifle was actually pretty handy. With the sunset of the ban ARs exploded in popularity and it became easy to find one at whatever level you want.

[@TankSniper]

@@Itsamemario0510 "a bone stock BCM" makes zero sense to someone who doesn't know much about guns and is looking for a first. What is BCM? How would I know to go with BCM over (insert company with similar/better pricepoint here)? etc. Thats quite literally my point about needing to already know and I can almost assure you a cursory google search will pull up some forums where one guy is swearing by it and another is cursing it.

[@MarkyMan316]

I love this style of presentation and archival footage/pictures. This is probably one of your best videos.

[@GregoryDeese]

I wanted to buy one in the 1980's, I went to an old OTASC0 hardware store, I had enough credit for a Marlin 30-30 lever action, but not enough for a Mini-14. When I finally did save up the $850, the gun dealer in my town told me he couldn't get any because the South Africans had bought them all. I think later that was a big lie he just didn't want to sell me one. I later got a stainless/black synthetic one in 2001 and used it for years before falling on hard times, I had to sell it. I regret it to this day. He was right about the after-market magazines and I usually shot the 5-round hunting magazine or the 10. It's too bad that the current generation can't appreciate the traditional, solid stock rifle, versus rifles that look like paintball toys or erector sets.

[@maxwedge5683]

Got my Mini-14 in 1976, still have it. With the wood stock it doesn't look like my AR so most people aren't scared of it.

[@djsity]

This is by far the best video you guys have put out. I'd love to see you put out more videos like this on different rifles 🤞.

[@ResilienceOnPurpose]

That was a really well produced video. Looking forward to part 2.

[@ryantyler2882]

Got to say that the Mini-14 will never be something I get rid of...was considering adding the Mini-30 to the collection but haven't yet...got quite a extensive variety of different lengths uppers for assorted lowers in both 15 & 10 including the CommyFornia friendly hunting stock lower for all my AR uppers just in case Cali goes full libtard and bans everything...Still, I love my Mini-14 especially since I added the mo rod barrel stabilizer/accurizer & the muzzle brake and also did a trigger job to bring the trigger down to about 3.5 pull...she's fun, compact, no-nonsense carbine that seems to always get picked up by everyone that sees it on my table at the outdoor range...added a 1-4 lvpo with a simple chevron and it rings 8in steel non stop at 200 yds...I strongly urge anyone who doesn't yet have one, to get it if you can get your hands on one...just make sure you get the newer version...

[@VRAS4570]

Great video and very informative. Thanks.

[@42willys4]

Production value through the roof! Wow, great job Chris and gang.

[@jeffcaldwell2991]

As always, you've made an excellent video. I believe the answer is a simple one. Many gunowners are a conservative bunch and like older designs. I'm 54 and in the past few years I've found myself growing rather weary of the non-stop innovations. Yes, they are very nice (polymer frames, small powerful weapon lights, small reliable lasers etc.) and are a tremendous help, but there are times it's exhausting trying to keep up with the latest and greatest. I've been a police officer for 22 years now and since 2000 I've moved from the SIG P220 to the SIG 245 to the Gen 3 G19 to the Gen 4 G19 with mounted light to the Gen 5 G45 with light and Steiner pistol red dot and so forth. Don't even get me started on my patrol Daniel Defense M4 with all types of bells and whistles on it. Is it any wonder why I like to collect classic revolvers with wood grips? It's comforting and, at times, just more fun to shoot. That is why the Ruger Mini-14 is still being made and still being bought ... in my opinion.

[@patrickbenjamin9056]

This is a fantastic video. Thank you.

[@richb2229]

I have a mini 14 with a factory ATI style stock. I don’t love it but I haven’t sold it either. Bill knew what people would like and buy that’s why his guns still are loved and bought. I also have factory 30 Round magazines.