YouTube Poll: Do You Like the Ruger Mini 14?

[@DesGardius-me7gf]

The FBI agents in Miami sure as hell didn’t like it.

[@1.1797]

Based

[@357SWAGNUM_MAGA_X]

And red pilled

[@noneshere]

Fuq government... They're not even allowed to keep weapons lists, by Congress.

[@DR676767]

They also couldn’t handle the 10mm

[@danav3387]

The fbi doesn't like any gun that's not in their own hands.

[@richbutler7828]

Bought my 185 series Mini 14 new in 1990 it's always hit everything i have aimed at and has never jammed. i have not had the problems others speak of.

[@andrewmcneil6668]

Frankly, I think the issues with the Mini14s and Mini30s have been overstated. That said, I haven't owned an older "pencil barrel" version of either and it has been my understanding that it was the thinner barrel models that had issues with barrel stability. Like all issues that come up with a particular firearm, I often think these things get blown out of proportion and carry forward well past their expiration date.

[@stevem4783]

I've noticed most of the internet trashing of the Mini happens from people that don't own, haven't previously owned, and definitely haven't fired one. Just parroting "accepted internet lore". AR stans can be a really touchy bunch.

[@armorer94]

​. I'm one trashing them- in a LE context they're hard to keep up and running. And before you complain I'm ruger certified

[@Ekanselter]

Well stated. Some want to criticize and continue to highlight the shortcomings of the early Ruger Mini-14 design while ignoring the clouded early history of the AR platform - beginning in 1967 with the M16! I suggest going to your local VFW and opening the topic for discussion! You better be ready to pickup the Tab! BTW: I very much like how the AR rifle engineering has progressed with time!. But, please let the Mini-14 continue to exist. A closing point - don't stand in front of a Mini-14 in a firefight if all you have is an AR and two mags! Lol

[@Oldspartan65]

No their not and i could care less if your LE and a ruger armorer​@armorer94

[@Frank_in_Iowa]

@@Oldspartan65 Exactly right. I've had two since 2011 and they've problem-free the entire time. The mini is built like a tank.

[@Valco458]

The Mini 14 is such a handy lightweight well balanced little carbine . I mostly use it with the 5-10 round magazines for long walks around the acreage & plinking. It’s lightweight easy to carry around making it a perfect little grab & go knockabout companion.

[@Bullet_Harmony]

There’s something they don’t tell you. Something nobody ever seems to be able to understand or comprehend about the Mini-14, mini-30, M1A. All of these guns use the GARAND ACTION. Meaning. 🚨!!!YOU CAN LOAD THEM FROM THE TOP!!!🚨 Stripper clips and all. So if shit hits the fan guess what. You can still function off of one magazine. Reliably. That’s what nobody tells you about these guns. It’s why I chose it over the Ak, Ghalil, FAL, AR-15, The scar, the Tavor, the AUG, any kel-tec any of them. NONE of these guns can do that one thing that the Garand system started with. Loading from the top.

[@americanpatriot9865]

For real? I didn’t know that! I’m gonna test that out with my mini 14

[@Bullet_Harmony]

@@americanpatriot9865 Cogburn makes the module that attaches on to the top of the action. It’s like 30 dollars it’s so cheap for such an invaluable upgrade. Also check out the Hannibal rail by Sampson. Gives the mini a far forward pic rail to mount optics scout rifle style.

[@johnk5061]

My favorite is my 580 series, stainless steel Mini 30. Light weight, accurate, and fun!

[@56Spookdog]

I love the Mini 14 it keeps me in shape hunting down the brass.

[@pmergler]

Newer to guns and instantly fell in love with the mini14. I picked up the 14 tactical in .300BLK and dropped in an accuracy bar with adjustable gas block. Also picked up an original 1970s wood stock. All in I have spent WAYYY more than my AR platform rifles... but I still love the thing. I feel in a way with the mods that are possible that the mini14 was the original AR with how customizable it can be. The AR is MUCH more cost-effective and practical now these days... but the mini14 has a special place in my heart.

[@Valco458]

I absolutely love the Mini 14 . I love the mechanical sounds when it’s operating. Very similar to the AK sounds.

[@James-cr5mc]

Ak was based off the m1 garand, which is the grandfather to the mini 14.

[@cerberus1166]

it does have similar sound, but not similar resilience to elements that the AK has. even though it should. but still easier to solve the problem than encased bolt guns

[@Ekanselter]

What???????????

[@Valco458]

@@Ekanselter ??? In response to what???

[@MikeInOregon]

I pity the fool who doesn’t love the Mini-14.

[@8RedBear5]

My Dad is from that generation of gun guys that remembers all the stories of the Vietnam M16s having issues. He never seemed to care for the more modern weapons, sticking more to pistols and Bolt guns. So it was kind of a shock when he asked for a Mini14 for Christmas several years ago. Apparently it was one of his buck-list guns, he now owns both the Mini14 and Mini30 and really seems to enjoy them. I think they are neat and a party of US gun history. I don't think mag compatibility is that big of an issue as I don't see the Minis as go to war type guns. My problem with them is they are a pain to take apart to clean, you almost need magic to get that bolt out and back in.

[@10mikemike89]

I think they're neat. When B.A Barracus or face man is using it.

[@oldmangreywolf6892]

I don't bother taking out the bolt. Use a spray cleaner and a few drops of oil on the rear to lube the pin and extractor. Then just lube the tracks.

[@thelastminuteman7513]

They aren't that bad to remove the bolt. It's about the angle of the dangle.

[@armorer94]

Mini-14's are hard to keep up and running too. And AR's are actually cheaper now.

[@10mikemike89]

Any chance he is a fan of the "A-team"?

[@CaptainTimeStories]

The mini 14 or mini 30 may be my favorite gun I’ve ever shot. They’re just so smooth, quiet, light, and soft.

[@twointhebush6611]

I've always loved the mini-14/30, the A Team was a big part of that. Also, M1 Garands and the M14/M1A rifles. I love the history and the visible rotating bolt and open top actions you can see operating. I think the accuracy thing is kinda overblown, I wouldn't expect benchrest accuracy from a Mini, but minute of deer, coyote, or other varmints out to reasonable distances is what they were intended for and most achieve that easily.

[@stevem4783]

The accuracy was only an issue on old Minis. It's definitely overblown, and something people just parrot over the internet. If you have one with a 580-up serial, they're as accurate out of the box as ARs.

[@andrewmcneil6668]

@@stevem4783 Agree

[@JW-ut7uk]

Love the action!

[@theinstructor2687]

@@stevem4783 Agreed. Between 1975 and 1990, I owned three of them. First shot, cold bore very accurate. After several consecutive shots they would each start wandering. I sold or traded each one off and bought a new one hoping it would hold a group. I really like the Mini 14. But after owning three of them I gave up and sold the last one and moved on. But then, somewhere in the first few years of the 2000s I read many articles and watch videos stating that Ruger had made some needed improvements that fixed my earlier complaints. I bought a stainless Tactical Carbine model with a 16 inch barrel, in 2009. The improved model, at least my sample, is very accurate and will keep shooting small groups as I continue to shoot. I said 'I really like the Mini 14" and that's true. But I LOVE my new model. I also own several ARs in different calibers and really like them, too.

[@t44e6]

If you have ever actually shot one of the early ones enough to fully experience it you wouldn't think the accuracy issue was overblown.

[@thomaspotthoff3139]

I LOVE my mini-14 factory side folder that I bought at a show here in Detroit, back in the 80's

[@tylerbennett3057]

Missed the poll but I'll comment: I've had a mini in 223/556 for about a decade. Sent it into Ruger for erratic ejection and high cycle rate after probably 2000 rounds. They replaced the bolt assembly and replaced the gas block and port. Runs very well and the FFL I use recommended a thicker lube. No issues since. Not a rifle I'll part with.

[@j.robertsergertson4513]

Love the mini14 ! Loved the mini 30 when a spam can of 7.62x39 was $20 .Now the mini 14 is way over priced for what it is !

[@robertstiffler961]

I've owned 4 mini 14,1mni30 and loved all of them!

[@SPENJERE]

I bought a Mini a few years back, with a tactical synthetic folding stock. I liked it a lot, I then purchased an un finished walnut stock , re finished it with Tru oil, some trigger work , a Primary arms red dot , nice leather sling and wow what a difference. I love my Mini !

[@Paul-rp1ld]

I like the mini-14, it took a lot of work to get my 184 series mini shooting accurately but now it is a tack driver the barrel strut made all the difference in the world. My 581 series is bone stock and a lot of fun to shoot. We had M-14's on the Ship when I was in the Navy so they take care of my M-14 itch.

[@stanviers8792]

You gotta get the Samson stock brother...

[@dennislydon-dt4mq]

I like the Mini 14, and Mini 30, however they’re about a grand or more. It’s just that I can build a AR-15, and AR-47 for around $400, so it’s hard for me to justify spending that much money for the rifle and the magazines. I live on a budget, and I’ve had them in the past, but the accuracy was suspect.

[@davidkilby1043]

Exactly correct. I still don't understand why they are at that price point

[@Clearanceman2]

I'm so old, I remember when Rugers were budget guns.

[@SCH292]

@@davidkilby1043 Maybe because Ruger knows that some states along with OTHER COUNTRIES that have super tight gun control on AR and AK platforms so Ruger charges whatever Ruger like on both platform.

[@markasteelsr.5990]

AR47? News to me. I had a mini 14 and a Mini30. I sort of got dissapointed in my mini 14, seemed like the shots started spreading out if I tried hits on targets over 25 yards.. The AR15 accuracy was superior. I had someone at the range lend me an AR for a few shots, and WOW big difference. Money was way too tight for me to afford an AR15 (1990s) prices way up due to the bogus ass(hole)saut/weapons ban. I FINALLY GOT my AR15s years later, 2017. I traded it in and the FFL gave me a pretty good deal! I had a mini 30 and it didn't like the steel/cased ammo. The primers were too hard, and the brass ammo was much more expensive.

[@dennislydon-dt4mq]

AR-47 is the 7.62x39mm platform. It’s just a term, not absolute. Anymore lessons?

[@davefellhoelter1343]

YES! I Do! I LOVED! the Mini 30 back when we got cheap 7.62

[@AllAboutSurvival]

I absolutely love the Ruger Mini 14! It's a reliable and versatile rifle and i love its classic design

[@chuckmiller5763]

I own several mini 14s and 1 mini 30, bought them for $400.00 or less used years ago. Today, AR-15s are cheaper and for the most part, better. But still love the Mini. I bought a couple more when WALMART QUIT SELLING THEM, THEY WERE ON CLEARANCE FOR $288.00. I tried to hit the other Walmarts around but were already sold out.

[@bearrielisenby3290]

The very first rifle I ever bought when I turned 18 was a Mini 14 Ranch rifle in 1994. I have never had any issues with that rifle , accuracy at 100 Yards with 55 grain FMJ is the same as any AR -15 is with the cheap ammunition . Load better quality ammunition and it does just like a good AR- 15 will. Have used it to take a truck load of Coyote , Bobcat and even a few whitetail deer. I have a very good friend that has a 1976 mini-14 , and that rifle has had who knows how many rounds through it and has been cleaned 3 times in its life time and has been hauled around on a gun rack and behind the seat of the truck all its life. The only other time it seen lubrication was if a quart of oil leaked on it. That rifle has never failed to function . And if he hears someone talk about a mini not being accurate his favorite saying is go stand down there at 200 yard an close the eye you want to keep. I still have my first mini-14 and have 6 more and none has ever caused me to doubt them. Matter of fact I have had more problems from AR type rifles( And the AR-15's I have are not the cheap end of the AR-15 range) than any mini -14 ever has. And it was Colonel Townsend Whelen that said only accurate rifles are interesting .

[@AshGreen359]

The stainless steel version is gorgeous

[@paulwhite8381]

They have turned the mini around totally as well as the mini-30 too.

[@bravofighter]

Yeah, I live in upstate New York, my wife has one because it was her best option. She has the stainless all-weather Ranch Rifle

[@Steelcity77]

I had a mini 14 years ago and i really wish I kept it. You gotta love the A-team rifle.

[@mikebeddingfield2144]

The mini will do what it ment to! It's just that the magazine's are expensive and hard to find and you can just about trip over ar mag's .

[@leadhead3966]

Thanks for the video. I only watch you on KZbin. My 1st semi auto was the Mini 14 in the early 1980's. I wouldn't sell it for any amount. It now has a Butler Creek folding stock I put on before the 1994 ban took effect. I don't worry about MOA with this rifle, it's just fun to get out and shoot sometimes.

[@robviousobviously5757]

lol... me too

[@bub1408]

I have a mini 14 I bought new when I was in my late 20's. I am now in my mid 60's and just bought another mini 14 this one in in .300 blackout. I had an AR for a while and traded it off for something else. I am too old to worry about weight and accuracy too much as the mini 14 shoots beyond my capabilities. I have my mini 14 in a choate adjustable stock with an ultimak rail. The Ruger just makes me smile. It has soul.

[@stevencowan3206]

I love your content, and I would like to say THANK YOU for your service. I like the mini 14 out of nostalga makes me think of the rifles the A-team used.

[@scottwilson1258]

My Dad brought Us Home a Mini-30 7.62x39, My Brother (older) customized it with ATI Stock with the AR tube/Stock and I was on the Fence -But- I am now going to have another look since AK-47's have highjacked my Heart with the 7.62, It makes You hunch down and Clutch IT! I will give it another chance after hearing your Enthusiasm!

[@countryrebel01]

I have used a mini 14 for years on the farm and can't remember having any issues that weren't mag related. It isn't the most accurate but it will get the job done. Ruger re-tooled years back and improved the accuracy issues. I think the AR15 overshadowed the mini14 and gave it a bad name for some. It'll take big game and everything smaller without issue. A true farm, pickup, prison, SHTF, and general purpose rifle.

[@HebrewHammerArmsCo]

Were you running Factory Ruger magazines... We only had problems with after market mags

[@ghostwriter1415]

@@HebrewHammerArmsCo that's because there's a hidden attribute in the gun, so that it's only effective with company part's. You will have to continuously buy more Ruger components.

[@countryrebel01]

@@HebrewHammerArmsCo it was a factory 30rnd that had a slight dent in the mag body that was hard to see but the follower would get hung up on it. I only recommend factory 20 round mags as I've heard rumors about other 30rnd mag feeding issues.

[@brianwursten815]

I love the mini-14. It was my first center fire rifle over 25 years ago, so I have a special place in my heart for it. I still have that rifle even if I shoot my AR-15’s more often. I have never had a reliability issue that wasn’t related to damaged or low quality magazines.

[@connorelsner2084]

Thank you, Eric, for the continued quality content. I have watched for a very long time, and your instructions have brought me into, and guided me through my gun hobby for a number of years.

[@jimblack5153]

Had mine for about 2 yrs now, and love it. I got the 58...series and have not had any accuracy problems using a mounted scope. The wood finish on mine is beautiful.

[@tonydiorio3136]

We’ve had 3 over the past 40yrs. Always wished ruger would give the design a serious bump up in design. I do like the mini 14/30

[@riverrat2350]

What's wrong with the design. It is far superior than the ar platform. It runs much cleaner for sure

[@tonydiorio3136]

@@riverrat2350 maybe the word Serious was a bit much. Mostly my own cosmetic liking . I’ve always liked the smooth stock of the m1 carbine. my mini’s were the older ones first bought in the late 70’s then late 90’s . I’m sure the current ones are a cut above.

[@georgewhitworth9742]

@@riverrat2350Superior then the AR? The markets and the military beg to differ

[@phantomf4747]

I have had mine for decades. Rock solid, never had an issue with it and will never sell it.

[@paulherbst752]

I bought a Mini-14 as surplus from a local P.D. years ago as they transitioned to the AR platform. The first time we shot it, my wife called dibs and it is still in her safe. She took her first deer with it and she's not likely to ever part with it. So, yeah, I like them....from afar. 😅😇

[@chslaw]

I don’t have one yet, but I likely will soon. Here in California, features like pistol grips , collapsible/folding sticks and muzzle breaks are “evil” and the Mini-14 is fully legal here in most configurations. I also have a Ruger 10/22, Ruger PCC and a Mossberg 500, so I am used to have guns without pistol grips. It is a personal preference and to each his own.

[@virtus12ful]

Mini 14 is also around b/c of ban states - it’s one of a few semi-auto rifles you can get mostly stock in CA as of this writing (and still cost effective compared to M-14 or M1A). I don’t see the market trying to create anything like it, which is a bummer as there would be a big market for it if done right and priced well. Think Keltec SU-16 or something like the Fightlite lowers for ARs. The FL lowers are prohibitively expensive and the Keltecs aren’t all that reliable and may be discontinued. Without those driving prices down, Mini-14 will have a niche.

[@jimblack5153]

Yep, I got one because it was still legal in The Peoples Republic of New York.

[@SchwererGustavThe800mm]

From a gun nut point of view, I'm a HUGE lover of the Garand action, piston driven family of rifles. I simply prefer them over DI AR's.

[@igotatan1]

IMO, aesthetically it always looked like a Frankensteined rifle. But when I found out it could fire 7.62x39, well I liked it more than any AR. I had a Marlin .22 that looked just like a Deerfield, (30 carbine) tube fed, and your right, it was very accurate.

[@joecentral-o9984]

Plenty of good AR in x39

[@igotatan1]

@@joecentral-o9984 I'm not an AR guy, I'm an AK/SKS guy.

[@Hornet135]

@@igotatan1 I like both.

[@bloodking73]

@@joecentral-o9984 762x39 doesn't work in an ar, if it does work then its going to be much heavier than an ak, no reason for ar in 762

[@JohnDoe-ud2cc]

They have it in 300blk too

[@vinyl37246]

You buy a Mini-14 because you are 50% less likely to be sentenced if you have to use your firearm in a home defense situation than if you used an AR-15, and if you were sentenced it would be 3-4 years less on average. The Mini-14 also lacks several features that frequently put the AR-15 in the sights for proposed bans.

[@1960HikerDude]

Nice presentation Eric. One nice thing about the Mini 14 is that it is legal in ban states such as Marxachusetts.

[@bass3003]

Ruger definitely made a 300blk Mini 14 Tactical. All black with a synthetic stock. I owned one for a little while. Good gun.

[@billybauer3672]

I like the concept of the mini 14 however the execution could have been better... They have been working on some of the short comings but it has just been way too long of an evolution and yes, I always thought if someone came out with a stanag mag adapter they could make a killing.

[@rudder727]

It would be very easy to make it accept AR-15 magazines... but they keep their expensive proprietary magazines.

[@mmgr.madminutegearreviews4562]

Explane.

[@theinstructor2687]

I have no issues or complaints with magazines. Compared to the cost of the rifle, magazines are a cheap investment. The improved model I bought in 2009 shoots as accurately and reliably as any of my ARs. Actually, more reliably than one of my ARs, as it won't shoot steel cased ammo but the Mini 14 will happily shoot steel cased ammo all day long.

[@MrZayne8]

Mini-14 lover here. I have an early 180-series, a 186-series and I have a brand new stainless on the way with the Samson folding stock. I traded away a stainless 580-series Mini-30 as one of my occasional bonehead moves. I also own an AR for good measure. Yes, the early skinny barrel Minis can string shots when they heat up but I have never gotten the "6 moa" some people suggest and have never had any gas system issues. They're not as finicky as AR's and do not need to he stripped and cleaned as religiously either. Mini's look great, they feel great, they're fun to shoot and with a little work the early rifles can be 2 moa rifles. The new improved versions are 2-3 moa rifles out of the box. I do wish Ruger would put out a version that takes AR mags, but I like the factory Mini-14/Mini-30 mags. Aesthetically anyway.

[@davidhartley6232]

Wish both models were updated with receivers that accepted STANAG mags for the -14 and AK mags for the -30.

[@bloodking73]

The reason they don't is because they make more money on the magazines than they do with the rifles

[@walkercustoms]

The mini has its place. Especially in the most commie of states. Great firepower and a now reliable and more accurate package. I've always wanted one. May still obtain one.

[@printingwithpeek4897]

The reliability of the mini 14 is the same as its always been. It's garbage

[@stanviers8792]

Think of all the "gambles" we take at the gun show..lol.. you should get one hands down , you will be pleased.. money well spent... ALWAYS THE MOST POPULAR AT A RANGE EVENT.. lol

[@stanviers8792]

You musta got a lemon... there out there.. had issues with a mini 30 running cheap ammo ... had to get an enhanced firing pin & the issue went away... it's a hobby after all..I feel the same about ar15s ..lol.😅 but I still like to shoot them..

[@jesuschrist3068]

The ruger american ranch 7.62x39 bolt gun also shares the same mags as the mini 30, show me another bolt gun in 7.62x39 rifle that shares any other mags with any other semi auto in 7.62x39. Two guns, one caliber and one mag type, that can make a good combo, both rifles are fairly compact and mags still obtainable and not too expensive.

[@Clockwork0nions]

Not when the FightLite SCR exists.

[@WOMPITUS]

Love them. Grew up shooting one. My dad was a Vietnam vet and a Louisiana game warden for 30 years and that was his long gun. Had a Choate folding stock on it and front sight with the ears.

[@thedirty5440]

The mini14 was going to be my first rifle. Was saving up for my 18th birthday. They were at Wally-world for around $360bucks. The weekend after my birthday, $500 plus. Crushed and disappointed 😂. So my first rifle was a mosin m44 garbage rod which was only $100. Never did get one after, ended up getting an AR.

[@johnl5974]

you didn't miss much

[@thedirty5440]

@@johnl5974 yeah glad it gave me a while to realize that the AR was the better choice

[@TheColosiss]

My family has 3. Growing up on a farm in the Mid-West, they were relied upon. I was the 1st one to break the mold and get something besides a Mini-14/ranch rifle. Invest in good magazines and they will run flawlessly. From my experience, they are fantastic rifles.

[@bassmangotdbluz]

I really love the idea of it, and I've been considering buying one. I just wish it was available in a different chambering. In 5.56 it's just redundant to my AR.

[@1.1797]

Just 223 right?

[@L3GN5RW9]

Mini 30 is 7.62x39

[@stevencampbell1603]

Like a mini 30 in 7.62x39

[@connorelsner2084]

Can get variants in 300 blk and 7.62x39 currently.

[@bassmangotdbluz]

​@@connorelsner2084300BLK must be some distributor exclusive because their catalog shows Ranch & Tactical IN 5.56 and Mini 30 in 7.62x39.

[@RomeoWhiskey692]

I liked the Mini 14 because of its old school feel . Not an M14 vibe at all . I saw it as an upgraded M1 carbine . It cured the major failing of that venerable pdw. The .223 cartridge . I carried mine on horseback a lot … the AR 15 was never designed to ride with .

[@danielgillrup9518]

My biggest gripe with mine is the weight. It’s a beast. Also, mag changes are much easier in an AR

[@davidcbrainard]

I cut my barrel length down to 13.5” and pinned and welded a Choate flash hider for a legal length of 16.25. Accuracy improved from 3” down to 2” consistently. That wasn’t my purpose for the shorter barrel but it’s a very welcome unexpected result. That and the Samson folding stock make it a fantastic little package.

[@EricDaMAJ]

I love the Mini-14 in the same way I like my lever action rifle. It's fun and multi use in a pinch. But the time is almost 2 decades past when anyone can realistically compare it to AR15 or AR15 derivatives as a near peer. ARs are cheaper, more accurate, use non proprietary mags from multiple manufacturers, are easy to mount multiple accessories to, and are more easily tailored to missions/personal preference. Hell, you can even save more money buying a good AR lower then just buying different uppers to fit your fancy. Really the only thing the Mini-14 is still good for is not scaring Blue state politicians and their shitlib constituents. But these days you can get good bull pup designs like the Kel-Tec RDB-C and the Tavor that are better.

[@michaelpond6386]

I dropped my stainless mini into a Tapco stock system. The barrel really needs a strut and a better flash hider. The action seems very good. After market mags are a no go. Factory mags only. Optics and flip up sights work well.

[@pilot3016]

Yeah.. factory mags and accu-strut.

[@gdaddy7351]

Bought a 580 Series and went to the range. Straight out of the box the rear sight vibrated off. (Before that the rifle was a hoot to shoot.) Replaced the stock with a Hogue Overmold. Replaced the rear sight with a Tech Sight. Replaced the front sight with a Choate Tool Cage Compensator. The only limiting factor on this rifle now is me. It is as accurate (from a rest) as any iron-sighted rifle in my safe.

[@richiesuller6414]

I love my mini 14. The first gun I bought when I turned 18. It is stainless with a folder brand new and is one hell of a tack driver even with the 89$ 1000 rnd case of wolf ammo I bought with it in the late 90s. I didn't know shit so I put 1000s of rnds of 556 through it as well when it was only a 223. never lubed probably only cleaned 2 or 3 times and 25 yrs. Later still a flawless functioning tack driver

[@echohunter4199]

I’m 58, a retired Army Infantry NCO (1983-2009) and was trained on the M-16 and M-21 during my career. The Mini-14 was always a rifle I admired as a kid but never thought I’d own one some day. Like most kids who watched the A Team on TV it was thrilling l see the Mini-14 in action. There’s a lot of variants that Ruger had for the Mini-14 and the only variant I wanted to own was the older Mini-14 GB and that’s the one I eventually bought. Mine was a former Texas DPS (prison) gun with a 185 serial number and in near new condition. I also own an M-21 (Accurized M-14) and the ART scope along with an M1 Garand. So I think I’m an average gun owner where we own all 3 versions of the Garand type platform (minus the 30 Carbine). I make sure I feed good .223 ammo for the Mini-14 and make sure the loads aren’t too hot. I’m also a huge fan of the 6.8 SPC cartridge but I prefer it with the AR-15 platform for ease of maintenance and load out. And I’m so grateful Samson came out with their Mini-14 folding stock, and even one for the 10/22! It’s an affordable, quality option for the rifle that was near impossible to find beforehand. I’m of the opinion that the Mini-14 can be accurate when it’s fed ammunition that works within its parameters. When we push projectiles that’re too heavy and with powder that’s too hot or too much powder. Each rifle has a specific harmonic resonance and nodes at certain points along the rifle starting at the end of the receiver so semi-automatics have to be designed to provide a low base resonance for the base node. So if you find a hand load recipe that works perfectly for your rifle, stick with it. And please remember that a load that works great on the High Desert in northern Oregon won’t behave the same down in Kentucky.

[@chriscollins5762]

I own a 185 serial number TX DPS mini 14 GB as well. Can you tell me what is different about these guns than the standard model?

[@echohunter4199]

@@chriscollins5762 Sir, the 185 serial range is mentioned to indicate year/era of manufacture because it shows that these were made before Ruger shut down civilian production of this variant. The GB version indicates the version of barrel that can mount a bayonet and has a 22mm flash hider which is common among NATO battle rifles. The flash hiders that are 22mm in diameter are that size so they can launch rifle grenades of various manufacturers. The 185 also had the first generation real sight assembly that was modeled after the M1/M-14 rifle but was changed to the more simple types of rear sights not long after. Personally, I prefer the older type of Mini-14 like the one I own, just my preference since I like battle rifles for my collection, the newer versions have better accuracy. Your rifle should have two sets of serial numbers on the receiver, one below the Ruger serial number, this was done at the factory for Texas DPS and yours likely has the standard wood stock like mine. I was amazed to find mine and in near perfect condition for only $700 at a pawn shop a few years back so I snatched it up quickly. These sell for around $1,500 today so don’t let someone give you less if you decide to let it go. I don’t much more than what I mentioned but I hope you enjoy it.

[@blankeny]

Hell yes!!! I purchased my Mini the day after the Stockton school shooting in 87, it has the tapered barrel in Stainless steel, I got 2 30 round magazines and 2 40 round mags in stainless steel from Gander Mountain when I lived in CA. Never have I had a more accurate rifle right out of the box! 1.5" groups @ 100 yards with iron sights! And I also own a Colt H-bar...

[@Petefus]

I got a Mini14 years ago when it was selling for $300 in great condition. It's a blued GB model, and has the side mounted fwd sling swivel instead of the usual bottom mounted ones. I'm told this indicated it was originally a factory folder, but this one had a regular wood stock in good shape, and the butt had a PD sticker showing it had been in police service at one time. Back then I put it in a black poly stock which made it a better fit for this big guy. When Samson came out with a blued version folding stock, I bought one and put it back to original issue status. Accurate enough and handy, I will never get rid of this rifle. Bought a bunch of after market 20 rounders when i first bought it, and when Ruger finally started selling 30's again, I picked up a few of those too.

[@fredeschen3783]

The thirties jam

[@orionexplorer]

I loved the one I used to have it was a 181-prefix serial number. I had 20 & 30 round mags for it, took it hiking and never had a problem with it. Back in the early 80's or very late 70's a friend had a Mini-14, he kept shooting at a rock about 100-150-yards away it was white and was easy to see. I think he shot all five rounds in the magazine and never really got close. I asked if I could shoot the rifle, he said sure he was ready to throw it away because he couldn't it anything with it. Now this guy was a hunter and all of that but mostly used a scope and this was iron sights. There were no wings on the front sight either, I took the rifle, wrapped the sling around my left arm, took a good sitting position with my left elbow resting on my left knee, and shot. OOPS! I hit the rock with one round and split it in half, I got told that I could not hit it again, I said I could, did everything like before, and split the same rock in half again. Bob, was one of the guy's I was with that day got so mad at me, he had been a Marine Sharpshooter in the late 1950's. The other guy I was with asked me how I knew how to do all of the wrapping the sling, sitting position and sighting the rifle? I looked at him and said right to him, You. I was like 18 or 19 at the time and had not joined the Army yet. I got rid of all of my firearms after I joined since it was more of a pain to go from duty station to duty station with my firearms and registration on post.

[@DragonSlayer-tg5mk]

The mini is great for CQB being light, handy, and reliable.

[@Charles-wr8my]

First rifle I ever bought near 30yrs back! Been thru lots of changes and trials but never think of offing it!!!!!!!

[@daveanddanniejacobs9432]

They made the barrels heavier. They improved the gas system. And Townsend Waylon was the man who said only accurate rifles interested him.

[@kirksnyder6190]

Yes. And since it came out there have been significant improvements.

[@co3g921]

The Mini 14 will always have a place in my heart. My Dad gave me one of his when I left home for my first "real" job out of state, and had it for many years. As I got more into competitive shooting, the old Ranch Rifle couldn't keep up in terms of accuracy, reliability and modularity, so I switched to the AR pattern. I'm not a collector and guns are tools to me, not sentimental objects. That's why I don't own a hand drill anymore either!

[@reb1050]

I bought my Mini-30 back in the 80's and it was definitely one of the early models. I was not impressed with the accuracy at all. A 4" group at 100 yds. was disappointing. But the rifle was really fun to shoot, so I kept it. Later on, I heard about the Accu-strut and after reading reviews, I bought one. After installing it, my groups dropped down to a little over 2" at 100 yds. Then I tried various brands of ammo and now I get just under 2" @ 100 yds. Fat forward to the 2000's and I bought my wife a Mini-14. With it, I just tested out various brands of ammo and it gets 1 1/2 in. groups (or less) at 100 yds. Both are accurate enough for my purposes and definitely dependable and fun to shoot. Chalk me down as one who likes both Mini's

[@user-fh4tf1zv4u]

I love my Mini-14. My father owned one back in the mid 1980's. His has some feeding issues (especially with reloads) and his 30 round mags, I believe were the issue. On the back of the mag at the top, Ruger uses 2 spot welds to hold the overlap of the mag case together that would hang up in the mag well. The Mini-14 I have now (I bought 3 years ago NEW chambered in 5.56 NATO) shoots great. Once I got my scope zeroed in at 150 yards, it hits the center of the X every time. The factory mags I have, 5 and 20 round mags, still suffer the same 2 spot welded joint at the top of the mag and hang up in the mag well. I do have aftermarket mags with 3 spot welds at the top joint and function flawlessly. New or reloaded ammo feed perfectly and function is great. The overall appearance of my particular weapon is gorgeous. Mine has a 416R SS barrel resting beautifully on a bedded laminated wood stock. The 1 "drawback" I have is it spits the spent cartridge casings about 35 FEET off to the right and about the same distance to the rear behind you. Sending you on a hunt for spent brass. Other than that, I LOVE my mini-14. I would say my mini shoots better than my dads older version (that I can remember).

[@philipormond1862]

My dad used to carry him in the shop back in the 70s. The ranch remodel was the most popular. I had an opportunity to shoot two different ones. In a lot of ways I thought they were to AR-15 platform. Extremely accurate right out of the box.

[@BullittGT40]

I have an 80s model mini-14 in stainless steel with the 16in barrel, the ranch model if I recall correctly and as long as as run .223 Remington through it had fair accuracy and no hang ups at all be it if I run 40rnd magazine or a 5rnd or any in between. So Hell yeah I love my Mini-14 as I stated in the poll.

[@stanviers8792]

It's the crowd favorite at any range day, I have an old one, it shoots tight, eats what ever & doesn't choke, unlike every ar15 I've ever used.& I think I've cleaned it twice over the coarse of two decades. As an active duty 19k I would HAVE RATHER HAD A GB SIDE FOLDER OVER AN A2carbine. I'm going to get another one .

[@bishopm4401]

I didn’t know there was a poll or I’d have said it there. But I grew up in California and that’s what I had to look forward to buying when I was old enough. I moved out of that state before I could buy one and into a state where I can buy and build all the ARs I want. Now the mini just looks cool. Also anyone complaining they don’t take AR mags is dumb. The stock design and where the mags are placed would make pushing an AR style mag release super awkward

[@DuhYaThink]

Yup, love mine. 584 series with a red dot,sling,trigger job, a light and mount,barrel stabilizer,Choate synthetic stock, action fits really good. Much tighter than the wood and she’s a keeper.👍🏻🍿

[@dentoldani3460]

I had 2 regular Mini-14s, first early 90s, second early 2000s. Both were used with (2) 30rd Ruger steel mags. Neither ever malfunctioned and shot beautiful. Life transitions took me out of the firearms 'loop' almost 30 years until 2021. Got a brand new production Mini-14 Tactical (584 serial) June this year. Found new Ruger 30rd steels on gunbroker. NOT cheap. Over 200rds so far, no sweat! Ordered a Samson A-TM black stock, childhood dream from The A-Team!

[@DisHammerhand]

I have one that I am still breaking in. I am a granny and it's a learning curve for me. I love shooting it, especially with 5.56 which it seems to prefer. Running it is easy; it's the cleaning and that bolt you have to pretzel in and out of there that gives me fits. The sheer expense of ammo has kept me from finishing the break-in. I also live in Commifornia so it gets around all the stupid regulations.

[@jeffbrooks8288]

I love the Mini 14 and have customized mine to look like an AR15. I also gave Mini 14’s with Hogue stocks to my sons. Of course we also have AR15’s and AR10’s in various configurations, but for the pure bliss of shooting fun, you can’t beat the Mini 14. The sound of the action ejecting the spent round and chambering the next round is so guttural and mechanical that it’s the top of my list for fun rifles to shoot. Now, having said that, taking one into battle would not be my first choice.

[@CTCAC2000]

Don't own it anymore, but it was the first firearm I bought. I loved it. Never should have got rid of it.

[@kearnstools1331]

That’s a great point I wish they put out an A-Team version too

[@stephenwhited1833]

Very important. It will perform quite well in whatever situation you find yourself in. It also doesnt look scary to the non gun crowd which is a very important consideration.

[@Ratkill9000]

Ruger did make maybe still makes the Mini 14 in .300 BLK. Came out with it I think in 2014 or 2015. The 6.8 SPC was very short lived.

[@shainshartershwate7421]

They seem to be out of stock everywhere, and even Ruger's sight says limited availability. I got one in 2020 at a pawn, new. They had two and the other one sold pretty quick. Great gun, built like a tank and likes cheap ammo. Maybe it'll be worth something or rare soon, who knows

[@mikebolton3816]

I LOVE the mini 30. And it shares mags with my Ruger American Rifle. Also in 7.62x39.

[@AshGreen359]

I prefer it over the AR but the AR is just a lot less expensive and you can piece one together yourself over time.

[@cynthia6389]

I like mine. Never any problems in 10 years. Fast handling work gun. Mine is dead reliable. I hear the talk, but at the range I hit all the steel targets every time. I didn't get it to punch paper. But I do hear it's $ 1000 now and that's crazy. I got mine new at the gun show for $670

[@pilot3016]

I have a older mini, so I installed a Accu-strut, which couldn't do any harm. Love it. Doesn't look menacing, (Ca. Here), is reliable, and easy to tear down. The "Snobs" can talk all the s*** they want.

[@waynesmith699]

I've owned a Mini-14 since the mid-80s. Like it very much. Found it to be accurate and reliable. I even carried it in my patrol car. I still own it along with my ARs. Glad I bought it when it was cheaper.

[@sw1412]

I love it. Yes I own AR's but I prefer the M1 action over the buffer tube.

[@carlterranella8531]

I never expected to have my comment read by you, but wow. I am in awe. And you got the name spot on for pronunciation.

[@tomlockwood6599]

The mini 14 is an awesome little rifle. My preference is the ranch rifle version.

[@richardtallent8175]

Don't forget, to those who remember the Ruger XGI(?). In 7.62 nato/ .308. Not produced much. Got overshadowed by mini 30, from what I remember? Thank you for the good video.

[@michaelhodges8312]

Yes, definitely! I have the Tactical version with a Leupold VX2 2-7x and Choate upper hand guard. Would not own one without that aftermarket upper hand guard. Better barrel cooling and exposes the op rod like the M-1A.

[@mikeogden5256]

Yes

[@johngraesser4911]

I owned one of the early ones, back when they only cost $250. It was horrible. At 100 yards it was good to have dinner plate sized groups. My smle shot groups half that size. It was one of two guns I ever sold. When ar's became cheaper than mini's, I started buying ar's.

[@bfgivmfith]

My first rifle was a Ranch Mini-14 that I bought in the 90's. I just bought the folding stock 2024 version that all you You Tubers attribute to the A-team. I watched that show, but never put together at the time this particular rifle. I just think it is awesome! :) I have several guns now, and I am all about the Mini-14! I love underrated guns that gun nuts don't appreciatte. Let's keep it that way.

[@DaveDanger-v9g]

We have had one of thoes along with a bunch of ammo in sealed containers, in an air duct up at the cabin for many years. Its as nice now as it was many many years ago. It is just inexpensive protection .

[@harles255]

I have three minis. The target model with the laminated stock in .223, a ranch model in 6.8spc, and a Mini-30 in 7.62x39. I also picked up a .44 mag Deerfield that uses a mini style action at a gun show. I love shooting all of them, though my wife has claimed the target model for herself!

[@TylerSmith-ce8mk]

Love the mini. I like that it can be run like a standard rifle, that it can be carried like a traditional rifle on a sling because theres not a grip in the way, and with the lack of a pistol grip you can slide it in smaller places like under a seat or in a sock or bury it in a tube.