Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Review

The Ruger Mini-14 is an iconic rifle in my opinion. It is approaching 50 years of constant production, its been used in popular television shows, been used in a few different international conflicts(Rhodesia anyone?), as well as been a mainstay for many average joes on the farm, hunters, and plenty of range time. This rifle is based off the M1 Garand style action, looks similar to the M14, and is chambered in the very common .223 or 5.56. All the makings for an iconic rifle.
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#ruger #mini14 #223

[@wr8991]

I believe that all mini 14' s except the target model can shoot 5.56 but check the manual.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

it's interesting reading the Wikipedia on the Mini-14, I know it's not 100% but close enough in this case haha, it does state the target model is .223 only. All other models are chambered in both .223 and 5.56...Mine specifically says .223 Remington on the receiver.

[@dahveedl3133]

FYI, your specific mini 14 that is stamped .223 will in fact accept 5.56 NATO with no issues. The TARGET model is stamped TARGET ranch rifle and may NOT use 5.56. All other models are simply stamped .223 up until around 2008 when Ruger began stamping the mini 14 5.56 NATO, presumably to end the confusion. This is clearly stated in the Ruger mini 14 manual. Thank you for the review. You have a very nice gun there. We do love our mini 14s dont we. Take care.@@Northwoods.Nobodies

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@dahveedl3133 Solid info, I appreciate that! I believe mine is a 2009 build based on the serial number. They have a unique position in the firearm world and it's certainly one of my favorites.

[@Brett235]

Yes, this is correct. The target model specifically says.223, but all of the others indicate in the manual that they are chambered in 5.56 but the barrel says.223.

[@DuhYaThink]

Correct 💯

[@phillipfritz7014]

It just amazes me on how many Ruger Mini-14 owners do not understand what ammo should be used. It was originally designed by L. James Sullivan & Bill Ruger around the 5.56 x 45mm which will also shoot the lower pressure .223 Remington. The Target model uses Remington .223 only. If you're in doubt read your manual of arms, it's available on line thru Ruger.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

No clue why my reply didn't show up 2 days ago but anyways...I refer to the barrel or receiver of the firearm if I need to verify the caliber. It would make far more sense if it said 5.56 on the receiver. I guess I chose the "safe" path by sticking to .223 only. I use the manual if I have a disassembly question or a parts issue generally.

[@phillipfritz7014]

@@Northwoods.Nobodies I wonder if stamping the early receivers 223 was another attempt of Bill Ruger trying to keep his sweet Mini-14 from Congress classifying it in the same category as the “Black Scary Rifle”. If you refer to the manual of arms for the various versions of the Mini they all state 5.56/.223 except for the Target model which is .223 only. Guess we will never know what Bill was up to.

[@notsosilentmajority1]

Yeah, the AR is more accurate, more modular and less expensive but the Mini is in a class by itself. It's a ton of fun to shoot, it's very maneuverable and it looks great too. Don't forget about the ATEAM (Samson) stock that swaps out in no time at all and fits the Mini-14 and Mini-30. I prefer to spend the few extra dollars and buy Ruger mags, they now make larger capacity magazines than they used to. The Mini has a cult like following and they've become a favorite for people that live in communist states. The Mini is just a lot of fun to shoot, it never gets old.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I agree with all of that! I was in love with the rifle for years before I could buy it and it hasn't let me down so far!

[@notsosilentmajority1]

@@Northwoods.Nobodies Spot on brother. Great job!! 👍

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@notsosilentmajority1 Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@forgottenhistory2562]

Eh this is only partially true. Accuracy is equal at 100 yards, AR groupings maybe 1 inch - 1.5 inches narrower at 200 yards, and 3-4 inches wider for the mini at 300 yards. Basically at distances you'll likely not shoot at very often. Now lets talk about reliablity and durability. You will be taking apart the AR much more often due to cleaning needs etc. You will also be replacing more parts. The mini 14 is far more reliable than 99% of ARS on the market, the only exceptions being maybe Daniel Defense and the Super duty.

[@tomtugboat]

Just bought a mini -14 tactical with flash suppressor - bought a used Nikon buck-master scope because Nikon got out of the scope business and the reviews were very good on them ! Haven’t gone to the range yet hoping I like it !

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I have a pair of Nikon Buckmaster scopes and they've been great. I was disappointed when they stopped producing them. Cheers to the new gun!

[@DuhYaThink]

Nice piece. Bought a mini new in 2019, 584 series. Stamped 5.56 Nato. Red dot and trigger job, barrel stabilizer and it’s a great shooter. Oh, a Choate synthetic smooth stock tightens up the action significantly 👍🏻

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

Sounds like you've got a badass Mini! I'll check out that stock for sure. What red dot are you using?

[@DuhYaThink]

@@Northwoods.Nobodies A primary arms md-rb. It’s been pretty solid. Holsters plus sells a “clamp” on 1” light mount. Also pretty solid. I would go larping around with it too much , like throwing my rifle or rolling around on the ground. But for general use it’s good.👍🏻

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@DuhYaThink Good stuff! Those are great recommendations. I don't take the mini out that much compared to my ARs but I really enjoy it when I do take it out.

[@DesertRat.45]

Ruger still makes the 20 round. You have to find a retailer selling them. Ill spend the money for a factory mag..flawless function

[@mcb2757]

I have a new production mini 30. It's my bedside rifle. Love that gun.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

You rocking the iron sights or do you have an optic on it?

[@mcb2757]

@@Northwoods.Nobodies I’m just running a Bushnell RMR on it. That’s only because I’m using it for home defense. Otherwise I’d just be running the iron sights. They’re great sights.

[@prescotian1500]

Ruger has answered this question for years. 5.56 is ok in all minis except the Target model. I looked this up years ago when I still owned a 186 prefix to make sure. I had great luck with Thermold and Tapco (both Gen) magazines in mine.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

Any and all capacity mags from Tapco and Thermold work well? Or have you noticed certain capacities work better?

[@prescotian1500]

@Northwoods.Nobodies I think Tapco only made 30s. The Thermolds I have are 30s also. Believe it or not I also had good luck with Promag 20s. They look and feel just like my LEO ONLY 20 rnd Ruger factory mags. Mine was an old LEO trade in mid 80s Pre Ranch rifle. Had it for over 14 years but sold it in 2020. I still have a bunch of mags and an 80s cool under folder stock, that wouldn't lock up tight anymore

[@prescotian1500]

@Northwoods.Nobodies if you can find tapco mags get the second gen that have metal molded in for the mag latch and in front for index pin. I would also highly suggest trying Promag

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@prescotian1500 I appreciate the suggestions on mags. It has been a minute since I've tried non factory mags, I'll have to grab some after all of the communities suggestions. Why did you sell your Mini?

[@prescotian1500]

@Northwoods.Nobodies I went through a 3 almost 4 year custody battle over my daughter. It got drug out because of the pandemic. So I had to unload some of my firearms to pay off my lawyer. I had a friend who really wanted the mini. I'll get a taper barrel mini when the time is right

[@DuhYaThink]

Matthew’s Fabrication has a kydex cheek riser that works great and is adjustable. Fwiw.

[@lateinliferedneck821]

I have a ranch rifle and it’s actually the only rifle I own that’s not a lever gun. I like the wood stick and blued barrel and receiver.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

It is a looker! What's your favorite lever gun you own?

[@lateinliferedneck821]

@@Northwoods.Nobodies I’m a Henry guy but last weekend I got a Rossi Trapper in 30-30 and I was clanging steel at 150 yard with iron sights that I had no business hitting at my age.

[@fredbarberjr5100]

I bought my Mini 14 years ago and I love it,I have the sat one you have the stainless steel rifle with wooden stock,love the feel of it ,I like it better then the AR 15,but that's my opinion.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

What specifically do you like more about the Mini than an AR?

[@jetstreamx15]

Tapco USA makes excellent mags for the Mini 14 now...also the Tigger outa the box on this gun I excellent

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I'll have to try some Tapco's out! I think I have Promag aftermarket mags. The trigger is smooth and crisp for sure.

[@DuhYaThink]

All my 20 round ruger mags take 21 rounds. Just saying. The 10 round John Mason mags work well also.

[@markwellsfry9843]

At one time a few decades ago, Ramline used to make Plastic ( see through) magazine's for the mini 14, 30 rounds. They worked o.k., but last round bolt hold open didn't always work. Another ancient plastic mag was made by Eagle, I believe 32 round. I liked it well enough, functioned well. Had a removable snap-on bottom piece ( for cleaning). Somehow I misplaced that bottom piece. I've always heard good things about the Tapco gen 2 mini 14 mag, but never owned one.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

Solid info! I appreciate it! I may have an Eagle mag come to think of it. The Mini-30 I picked up had some spare mags and one turned out to be for a Mini-14, I'll have to check.

[@BrianF.1969]

I have a Ruger ranch (stainless) I bought in the very early 90's. If I remember correctly my manual says I can shoot 5.56 in it. I haven't had it out in years and I've been wanting to get out and shoot it. Mine has one of the thinner barrels on it and accuracy wasn't so good. I added an accu-strut to it and it helped out. I also have a Bushnell 3-9x40 scope on mine. I've got several 30 and 40 round mags for mine. All metal. I have no experience with the plastic mags. It was my first center fire rifle I bought.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I had to look up the accu-strut, I've never seen that before honestly. Good to hear it helped improve the accuracy. Definitely sounds like you should get it out and stretch its legs a little! Also that's pretty cool it was your first center fire rifle and that you still have it!

[@aaustria3716]

mini 14 great firearm. have some ruger mags 5, 20, 30 rd run great. have used promag metal one 10, 20 rd, they are less expensive but have had no probs.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I think I've got plastic aftermarket mags, might be time to try the metal ones.

[@aaustria3716]

midwayusa is selling both ruger and promag metal. the promags are on sale half price of the ruger ones. i prefer the 20 rders. hope info helpful.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@aaustria3716 When I first bought the rifle the factory Ruger metal mags were a kick in the wallet, part of the reason I only have a couple. I'll give those Promag metal ones a shot. The info and suggestion is always appreciated!

[@illtake2chickens]

Tapco gen II mags and pro mag 10 rounders have all been reliable for me. The larger pro mags have not been reliable.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

Noted! I may have to try those. I've got 2 larger promags and they suck.

[@michaelsix9684]

love it, just wish they were cheaper, ten years ago they were, now it's hard to get one below a 1,000

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

It's one of my favorite rifles! I think I paid $750 or $800 for mine.

[@Brett235]

I regret selling my mini 14. I had the stainless version with the synthetic stock. It was the newer version. It was pretty accurate, the only thing I didn't like was it seemed to get much hotter more quickly than any of my ar rifles.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I haven't shot mine in succession enough lately to notice the hot condition. I wonder if the synthetic or wood stock affects that at all? Did you at least get something fun to replace the Mini?

[@Brett235]

@@Northwoods.Nobodies I have a few AR rifles in different calibers but nothing necessarily fun. I want a 30 caliber carbine, even a reproduction would be nice.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@Brett235 The 30 carbine is definitely on my list of firearms to get in the future as well. Dan has a reproduction carbine in 22lr that's an absolute blast to shoot.

[@Brett235]

@@Northwoods.Nobodies oh I bet that is fun.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@Brett235 We've got a quick short shooting it on the channel. It's a Chiappa M1-22.

[@Jeff-mo5gc]

I have a Ruger Mini-30, (2022 production, classic Ranch style series) I love it, nutnfancy did a review on it in which he poo-pooed it but I haven’t had any of the problems he describes. I feel it represents a way better value then an AK for all practical purposes. I use it as a hiking, scouting, and a quick handling close range hunting rifle. I cut the stock down to fit me, swapped the medium height rings for low rings with Ruger and mounted a fixed leupold 2.5 power scope on it. I’m getting about 2 MOA with good ammo. It is picky with 7.62 x 39 as far as accuracy goes. Worst case 3-4 MOA but with hand loads or decent brass case factory ammo I’m getting consistently under 2 inches at 100 yards. I never intend on shooting past 200 with it so I’m perfectly happy with that. If your looking for a tac-driver buy a different style gun, but if you want a handy little rifle you can carry all day and take down up to black bear size game in the brush I would consider this rifle. I don’t really have any complaints about the gun, but if I was going to complain don’t expect a perfect cheek weld with an optic and I wouldn’t try kitting it out with all kinds of tacticool hardware unless your in California and it’s your only option. “Lucky gunner” does a really good review of this rifle and so does “gun blue.” My last forced complaint is it has a military style 2 stage trigger that’s a little heavy and gritty but smooths out with use and cleaning, it’s by far better then any GI AR-15 trigger or AK trigger but not a match trigger by any means. I hope this helps someone out there pondering this rifle.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

That is great information and I appreciate you sharing your experience! What factory loaded ammo have you used in it? The fixed 2.5 power scope fits your needs well? What Leupold is it?

[@Jeff-mo5gc]

It’s a Leupold lightweight FX-2 “Dangerous game scope” I’ve used PPU soft points, Monarch FMJ’s, Yugo surplus brass case, Hornady SST’s and Tula 154 grain soft points I chose the 2.5 power scope because I wanted something quick and lightweight but with more magnification then a Red dot.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@Jeff-mo5gc Solid reasoning to use a 2.5 power scope. Does the rifle perform better with a certain weight bullet?

[@duckdog38]

I have a mini 30. Love the rifle, hate the rear sight. I bought a stripper clip guide, and mounted it to the rifle, so i don't need a lot of mags.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I didn't know that existed! That's cool! I don't mind the rear sight on the mini 30, I'm not a fan of the front blade. I prefer the mini 14 front sight style.

[@user-no8jc8ib2l]

I have been looking everywhere for a straight anwser. Some say yes and some say no. Can I own one of these in Illinois?

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

From my google search: the "Sturm, Ruger & Co. Mini-14 Tactical Rifle" is banned. Nothing was listed about Mini 14 Ranch, Target, etc. You could always double check with your local FFL, they should know.

[@jerrymyers6718]

I'm waiting on my background to bring mine home so yes. Mini 14 Ranch.

[@georgezink8256]

Barrel length makes all difference

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

That's what she said! Indeed it does.

[@bruceandrews8835]

It is obvious by your statement that your Ranch Rifle was only chambered to shoot the 223 Remington cartage that you did not read the owners manual. In the owners manual the Caliber is clearly stated as 223 (5.56 MM) cartilage. Also in the Owners Manual it stats that the rifle is designed to shoot the higher chamber pressure of military spec. loadings. You should always read the manual before making statements.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I've always used the barrel or receiver if I had a question about the caliber. My receiver says 223 Remington so I stuck to that. I refer to the owners manual if I have disassembly questions, parts issues, or if I'm really in doubt of something.

[@maynardwatkins4929]

read page 14 of the owners manual

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

Bold of you to assume I still have the owners manual, let alone read it 🤣. It would've been real nice if Ruger had just stamped the receiver 5.56.

[@Brett235]

​@@Northwoods.NobodiesI'm not sure why they didn't. I guess they assumed we would just know maybe?

[@patmcchesney3135]

They are chambered for 5.56

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

The more you know. I have been fact checked thoroughly by the comments 🤣

[@user-ih6cl5bm2c]

I have the "185" series made in 1991, it has 1:7 Twist according to Ruger, but does not like 75/77 grain bullets.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

That's a good thing to know, I've only ever shot 55gr. What happens when shooting the higher grain stuff? Poor groupings?

[@Josp-on3cr]

Here in Canada , our Liberal government declared this gun illegal to own or possess. Mags - we are restricted to 4 shots in mags + 1 in chamber.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I followed the changes in Canadian gun laws pretty close as it happened a few years ago. Damn shame for sure.

[@thirdlantern]

Chinada.

[@robertporteus7700]

The Rugar mini-14 has always been chambered in 5.56 read your manuals.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I usually look at the barrel or receiver to verify the caliber. This is the first time that hasn't been accurate.

[@andybieniewski5945]

The earlier mini 14s were chambered originally in 223 later on they changed it so you could shoot 556 or 223

[@223dmr7]

I have the same scope on my mini-14 lol

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

It's been pretty solid for the price! Glad I'm not the only one 🤣

[@michaelsix9684]

TX Rangers have used this weapon for years

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

That's cool, I wasn't aware of that.

[@jdeleszekable]

I got a thermold 30 rd mag. Its trash

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I will stay away from those in the future! lol

[@williamperry01]

It's a Birch stock...

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

We appreciate your expertise in wood! I do have an affinity for birch trees in all honesty, reminds me of the cabin.

[@JohnnyBGoode215]

The Masen mini 14 mags worked well for me.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

I've never heard of those. I'll fire up the Google machine and check them out!

[@tomsreviews238]

Just got a stainless mini thirty. The only reasonably smooth surface I could find on the gun was the stock. This is a poorly cast and finished gun. I just paid $1K for it. The lead fishing sinkers I cast in my garage come out more refined than the receiver on this gun. I am already thinking about sawing the receiver in half and cutting my loss. I can't imagine that this gun was inspected when it was shipped from the factory. I am not sure which end of the gun would be safer to stand behind when firing this disgrace.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

Is it a brand new Ruger Mini-30?

[@tomsreviews238]

It's a new gun, got it couple of days haven't called Ruger yet. Originally wanted a blued gun but could only get it in stainless. I did not look this gun over well enough when I accepted it. (my mistake). I never expected it to be polished like a Beretta rifle, but this is ridiculous. I assumed it would be better refined for $1K. My first thought is to polish it up. I don't know what type of metal is underneath. Ruger says it's stainless steel. It seems like some kind of funky alloy to me. Do you know if Ruger puts a coating or finish on these guns? I tried the best I could to find out but seems Ruger won't say. I am afraid that the gun will be completely worthless if I touch the finish and expose the metal it's made from or ruin the gun all together. @@Northwoods.Nobodies

[@tomsreviews238]

Brand new. can touch up all the moving parts that need it but I don't know if the top of the receiver has a factory finish or coating of some kind. @@Northwoods.Nobodies

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@tomsreviews238 That's crazy for a new rifle, especially one that's a grand. Are you going to reach out to Ruger? I would be really curious how they would handle that.

[@tomsreviews238]

I am going to work on it. It will give me something to do. I will send Ruger an email with my thoughts and see what they say. My concern though is what might happen if I heavily buff the top of the receiver. Is it a stainless coating over an alloy or solid hard stainless? Will I ruin it or not? I can't seem to find any real info on this. Seems to be a secret. I know the barrel is solid stainless but not sure what the rest is made of.

[@user-uf7sp1fq9r]

Doesnt say 223 remington,says 223

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

You are correct. Does that matter?

[@richbutler7828]

@@Northwoods.NobodiesThe .223 cal. marking on the mini 14 is there to denote the bore diameter of the rifle. Not meaning it's .223 Rem. Only

[@nightranger3430]

55 grain M193…

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

?

[@vagabondjohn2004]

@Northwoods.Nobodies - 55 grain M193 ball 5.56 nato, works well in 1:9 twist barrel.

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@vagabondjohn2004 Gotcha!

[@vagabondjohn2004]

@@Northwoods.Nobodies the other 5.56 is M855 77 grain, this is designed for 1:7 twist.. they both will work fine in 1:9

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

@@vagabondjohn2004 Do you have a preferred brand in 77gr?

[@blueringoctopuss]

You’ve had the gun for over a decade, decide to make a video about it, and you know very little about it. Sure post it anyway. 👎

[@Northwoods.Nobodies]

What else would you like to know?

[@richbutler7828]

It's mind boggling that those who are young enough to be raised with the internet seldom use it to do any Real research on things they want to make informational videos on. see this same thing all the time with U.S. Military Knives & Bayonets. it creates nothing but more Confusion and Disinformation to those who are actually trying to understand a very complex subject to begin with.