I am a metallurgist. Your question about casting vs forging is a good one. Typically forging is stronger than casting. Ruger uses investment casting which is a superior casting method. Ruger is also very good at it, and I have seen the process personally and that's all I can say about that. Aerospace uses investment casting for a lot of things. Yes forging in general is better than casting but the Ruger investment cast is better than a bad forging, and believe me there are a lot of bad forgings. The question shouldn't be which is better, it should be is it good enough for the application. Compromises are made every day in manufacturing. In this case I would have no issue relying on an investment casting from Ruger. No I do not work for them, and Yes castings can fail, but so can forgings and billets.
All else being equal, a forging is stronger than a casting, but if its designed as a casting, forging it adds unnecessary cost. A good engineer will make it as strong as it needs to be with the materials and processes being used. By all accounts, Bill Ruger was a good engineer, and his legacy continues at the company bearing his name.
I have a Mini-14 Ranch Rifle made in 1986. I polished the trigger and shimmed the gas block to tame it down and I'm getting 2 MOA accuracy. In 2019 the extractor cracked. I called Ruger and they sent me the kit to replace the extractor and other bolt parts free of charge. They even offered to do the work at the factory, but I chose to do it myself. You can't beat that for service. As far as dependability, the only failure I've ever experienced (aside from the cracked extractor) was when firing ammo that had not been properly crimped. Getting a bullet jammed in the barrel is some scary schnizzle. I will never buy gun show reloads again. Thanks for the videos.
Interesting - I had the same issue with my Mini-14, cracked extractor. Ruger sent me a new extractor claw, pin, and spring free of charge. They have excellent customer service
I think at this point in the game, if it's a semiautomatic rifle that goes bang more often than not and is 3 MOA or better, it is completely adequate for anything you might possibly use it for.
Other than doming groundhogs on the ranch, which is what the mini is billed for. 3 MOA is trash precision. Literally the difference between a clean kill or not for most of my applications.
I'm from Canada and thoroughly enjoy you videos and reviews. I have always wanted to own a Mini 14, since watching our local Tactical Team use them. A couple of years ago, I sold off many of long guns with the intention of stocking my locker with a handful of really good weapons. Mini was on the list. Then the Canadian government decided the Mini was an assault weapon and banned it before I could purchase one.😢 it will forever be one of my dream long guns.
You live in a beautiful country. But either vote out your restrictive, totalitarian government, or move to a freer country (although the threat exists for them too).
Right... The "cool factor" has nothing to do with the fact that the AR platform singly represents more than 11% of all the firearms in circulation in the US. Just what is it with those AR's ??? They're so uncool !?!?!?!🤷♂🤷♂🤷♂
I absolutely love the attention the Garand-Style rifles are getting. From the recent M1A video and now this, I hope this pushes the market to give it some more support.
Ooh, the wheelbarrow approach is best for the fact that you suck as a shooter! Picking the easiest platform doesn't make you good in any way. Let us now all play video games on easy because it makes us look good 👍
@@the_watcher_abcThat's kind of the point though. More market attention ideally means a push for better quality. Also, if you're talking about an M1A, that's usually a problem with mounting sights to them. They're actually fairly accurate rifles, most can hold around a 2 or lower MOA, with the worst tending to be closer to 3-4 MOA. The thing is they're not very good for mounting optics, at least with the original furniture. Their original furniture, much like the M14, is notorious for causing accuracy issues, which is part of why the military replaced the furniture for it. Plus many scope mounts people buy for it are complete garbage, usually poor quality aluminum mounts that just aren't really up to taking the recoil of .308 With good furniture, and a good mount, just like any gun, they're actually pretty accurate guns.
There are two major problems with the mini. The first one is accuracy, this can be greatly improved by gas port bushings and a barrel brace. The second is the magazines. If Ruger would get their thumb out of their ass and charge a reasonable price for magazines.
I’ve got a SS made in 1984. 100% reliable and 2 MOA. I’ve got a 2020 Ranch that I’d describe the exact same way. I use 55 Grain ammo in both. Glad to see the Mini 14 get some respect!
My hunting buddy was a range master at a California state prison. He told me that he had several mini 14s in the armory that the officers qualified with that had over two hundred thousand documented rounds through them. I've had mine for over 20 years, and I can't remember ever having any problems with it.
@@sunlight-sky151 I have no doubt that that many rounds had gone through those rifles. . . I also have no doubt that those rifles underwent regular maintenance, including the changing out of failing parts, like barrels, and that Mini-14 accuracy in general wouldn't be considered a 'problem' for officer qualification.
Bought one new for $179 in 1977. Owned a few ARs since that proved a bit more accurate & reliable but the mini still stands out as one of the funnest rifles.
Biggest problem with the mini is the magazines. Other than that, definitely a good rifle. As far as a cast receiver, ruger has been doing it since 1963, 64. They definitely know their stuff.
Biggest problem with the mini 14 is the barrel flexes due to the harmonics of gun. Ak does the same thing. Its an antiquated design. And the early ones DID have machined receivers(AC556) They buck around in full auto pretty bad too. I had an early AC556 years ago, you can improve them, but it isn't cheap.
@@TheDiameter if you say so. I don't think you catch what im telling you. The barrel flexes. Your confusing what im saying with a different phenomenon.
@@kennethbranson4711bingo, I noticed all the best shooting ones had an adjustable gas block installed and were down tuned to help tame the harmonics. It will always be inherently less accurate than modern designs, but that seems to go a long way in taming those harmonics.
@@TheDiameterit matters when I may be shooting a rabbit at 100-200 meters on my ranch. Or squirrels at 100 meters. I also had first round fliers more than 20 cm off zero every hand loaded round. The only fix was to waste a round firing into the dirt so thr rifle could auto-load. Even then it rarely held zero more than a week.
Ok seems to be working so basically it is a lot of money for something I cannot find in stock in Virginia. Typically a suppressor that is dedicated for caliber will have better sound/signature capability less flash signature and have a smaller outside diameter. I don't think I would be unhappy at all with this suppressor, I just want to know what I am getting and try it possibly before I drop a lot of money on it. If there was a 30 version of it, maybe it would give me a warm and fuzzy feeling about it and honestly everything I own is 300 Win Mag or less. I will say I think it's the most Sick looking suppressor on the market. I just don't like the unknown if that makes sense?
Late to the party - Illinois recent passed an “assault weapons” ban. I’m not “allowed” to own an “AR-15 style” rifle but I’m somehow “allowed” by our Great Khan Pritzker to own a Mini - 14.
We totally agree with you about the Mini-14. My wife has shot a three-quarter inch group with this gun at 100 yards using Frontier ammo with 55 grain otm bullets.
I'm so glad you made this video, my father was a Vietnam vet, 11B , he loved his M14, I'm a former 11B also. Loved my M16 A2 and later the M4, my father purchased M1A1, and later the mini 14, I absolutely love these rifles, never had a issue, even went out and bought a M1 carbine. Great video,!
I have owned the mini 14 and the mini 30. If I lived in a free state I would still own one. These rifles are very reliable, accurate, and a lot of fun to shoot. They are also legal in non free states.
@@Thurston.Howell.the.3rd I also have a mini-30, but I also also have a 18in .308 Aero M5 w/ AR Maglock on it. I enjoy both, haha. If you're not familiar with Reno May you should check him out for CA related 2nd A news.
@Thurston.Howell.the.3rd as a fellow commiefornian, you can buy pretty much anything. You just can't "have it on your rifle.", and you can't "drill the rivets out of standard cap mags pinned at 10 rounds."
I’ve owned quite a few dating back to the late 1980’s. Owned Ranch versions early ones. Then when the Tactical came out I bought one in 5.56 and shot it a lot. As I was raised shooting M1, M1 carbines and M1A’s I’m much better with it than any of the AR’s I own. I traded all my older Mini’s for the newer versions in 7.62x39 and 300 blackout. So now the stable in I own three AR’s and 5 mini’s. Along with a M1 carbine and a couple of springfield M1A Socom. But then again I was raised on a farm and once you know how to use tools buy the best ones you can afford and maintain them. That’s why most of my pistols are not polymer but metal also. But I’m a older guy who still likes 70’s and 80’s rock and country and drives a 20 year old truck. Oh and my truck gun is a Marlin 1894C in 357 mag. 🤠🇺🇸👍
Raised in the country as well and prefer all metal pistols too!! I have 2 m1 carbines , 2 minis ( 556, 300 BO) and one AR 15 in 300 BO. Love the action on these minis ! They are just simple and easy to use . 😊
Awesome video as always thanks! I had a mini 14 in the first decade of the 21st century and only problems I had was with aftermarket mags. If I used Ruger mags no issues.
Happy to see some love given to the Mini. I absolutely love mine, never had a single issue with it. Every time I’ve pulled the trigger it has worked flawlessly.
The Mini 14 is still the primary duty rifle California Department of Corrections and is currently in hundreds of control booths and towers at prisons across the state. For its intended purpose, its very effective. Nothing sharpens the senses of inmates fighting faster that that action slamming shut. Might as well be a pin dropping in a silent room.
The documentary about the Green Beret team that is in the Los Angeles underground first exposed me to the Mini 14. I may own one someday. The Ruger Mini 14 is slightly more ban proof & may look less "aggressive" than AR15s to some new shooters at my 2A4E Diversity Shoot events.
I got a 30 around 18 months ago and have loved it since! I did use an aftermarket Ruger/Weigand Pic Rail so I could mount a Red Dot+Magnifier combo. Which I also love! Great video!
I just picked mine up yesterday, a 5816. Had one a couple decades ago just got a hankering for another. I only paid twice as much as I did the first go around.
The mini has several good design features. • Simple controls. _(even moreso than the AK)_ • Rock & Lock mags advocated for by several prominent individuals for a general service rifle. _(Larry Vickers, Ian McCollum, etc)_ • Low sight over bore axis - Point of Aim = Point of Impact - Smaller shooter Silhouette. • Traditional stock has advantages for retention techniques. _(and classic bayonet/fighting techniques)_ • Lightweight • Reliable & proven action.
@maxsoregon I have never had my AR have a failure to feed. Not once with over 5,000 rounds fired so far and taken through many mud and sand tests. Keeping a rifle clean and oiled properly works wonders.
@@Vmaxfodderyou should be catching anything bent that badly during inspection and mag loading. You shouldn’t be trying to feed bent rounds to begin with.
I’ve been wanting a mini-14 for a few months now, so this makes me feel better about that decision. It’s just one of those wallflower guns that’s been around forever but only recently caught my eye. I like the caliber, but I’ve never cared for the AR-15 look and feel. A nice wood stock and stainless steel rifle is what I’m attracted to. I’d definitely get that Sampson upper hand guard with pic rail. The plastic guard it comes with just seems cheap.
Yea I don't like the ergonomics of an AR but I also grew up shooting AKs and SKS for 30 years shooting them. The Mini-14 being a piston gin and not DI is what stands out the most to me.
I am a m16a2 clone lover(my most used firearm) and it's a vibe for me, and the 20" rifle length gas and buffer tube make it feel like the perfect instrument at the range to me That being said, I fully appreciate that wood and stainless steel look of the mini-14, but having used it, it's not for *me* I'm 100% sure it's definitely right for others though, it really is a wallflower that people need to try as a "range partner" and see if it all jives well with them, didn't with me, but I hope it does for you, because it really has this look to it of like "I'm awesome, I don't care if you like me" Your comment really makes me wanna borrow or rent one and try again and see if I'm just basic late cold war vibe loving, or can enjoy that m14/classic rifle with wood style it has
@@Enjoyer.762 does that make someone a fudd to not like the look? He's not taking it into battle, and he's fine with others owning an AR A real fudd would say "no one should own an AR" not "I never really cared for it" Cus I never really cared for the VZ 58, but would never discourage someone from getting it
@@JaykPuten VZ58 is ugly as sin but its a functional and reliable rifle with the fun fact it's a milled reciever. Buuuuut I also have a soft spot for ugly guns. I have a PS90 and a beretta CX4 so 🤷
My Mini-14 is a 187 series rifle I bought new. The Ranch rifle version with Ruger rings. I mounted a 3-9x Redfield Widefield scope. Used it on woodchucks for years with no problems, as cold bore shots are dead on. A couple years ago I installed a barrel stabilizer which helped greatly when shooting steel at the range. My only complaint, and others at the range, is it throws brass 30-40 feet to the right.
I’m not sure how much it would help the mini’s market share to be honest. It seems like it might just prompt even more “well at that point just get an ar” comparisons to me.
I love it, but I also love the AR, AK, lever, bolt, pump, revolver, single shot, blackpowder, hell just gun I like them, sorry for the long iteration but yes guns good!
I prefer the Mini 30 myself, but the Mini 14 is equally a great, reliable and rugged gun. I Made two upgrades to my Mini 30. Accuracy Systems firing pin is a must! Once I put their Extended firing pin in the carrier bolt, well its EATS EVERYTHING. The Extended firing pin is about .02 to .03 longer. It ignites steel cased ammo! It EATS EVERYTHING! $70 dollar upgrade made this gun an absolute workhorse! The next upgrade I made was a lighter Sear Spring by MCarbo for $12.95. Then I polished the hammer sear and trigger sear. The trigger is smooth and crisp now. My trigger averages about 4 pounds now. It has some take up though.
Old school here...I just prefer the carbine feel of the mini 14 to the AR. The flat top, pistol grip, sight two inches above the barrel doesn't do it for me at all. Put a M14 or a mini 14 to your shoulder and it just fits like it's supposed to...comfortable, quick, and right in front of your dominate eye. Just easier to shoot, less busy. Kind of like a trap gun vs a heavy combat shotgun. Lighter, quicker, easier to aim.
I've always loved the looks of the Mini-14; it really is like an M1 Carbine in a more available caliber. I'm glad that Ruger is still making them, and I intend to pick one up sometime. Thanks for the great video, and Clint's excellent words of wisdom are always welcome!
I have a stainless wood stock mini 14 and i love it. for me its mostly the hertitage of it being based off the m14. i just love how they have the same action and everything. Plus it makes a sweet sound when you rack the bolt 😊
I love my mini. Mine is an older version passed down from my dad that came with a flash hider and bayonet lug. Mine's been tremendously reliable and now wears an A-TM stock. As for parts breakages, I actually did have to replace a part for the manual bolt hold open. Back then those pieces had what was essentially a wire as part of the assembly. The replacement I got was a newer Ruger part that was a solid piece of metal instead of the wire, so they seem to have noticed and addressed that issue. Besides that, she's over 40 years old and still running like a sewing machine.
I purchased mine in a state where a Mini-14 was NOT considered a tactical rifle, so not state permit was needed to purchase. It was my first semi auto rifle…and I still hold to it as a favorite firearm.
This continues to be my favorite video on RUclips. I've always been a fan of the Mini-14. I've carried M-16s and M-4s for 25+ years in the Army and I just prefer the open bolt clean action the Mini-14 provides to the messy M-16/M-4/AR platforms that dump carbon in the action. Some modifications I recommend that I did are installing the Samson Hannibal rail if you intend to use a red dot, installing the Tech Sights adjustable rear sight and tool for iron sight shooting, installing the Accuracy Systems adjustable gas block, and installing a Mo-Reaper muzzle brake/sight assembly. There are other modifications such as custom stock swaps that are super cool. You can completely change the look and feel of this rifle because it is compacted down to the action and barrel.
I have the newer black version with a sampson walnut folding stock, accustrut barrel brace, all metal dust cover, and mcarbo trigger kit. It shoots lights out and groups (almost) as good as my 20" custom DMR build. Everyone who shoots it drools over the thing, plus its probably the coolest looking gun with a sig romeo mounted on the pic rail. Two thumbs up from me. 20round ruger mags are a MUST.
When I tell people what my Tactical (Model 5888) can do, they call me a liar (on the Internet, I mean : ) I've done a .875" 3-shot group, w/two in one figure-8 hole, with its favorite ammo so far, which is Hornady Superformance Match 5.56 75 gr. BTHP. And that was literally the first shots fired after a complete tear-down and cleaning, including R&R scope. Average of 6 shots w/a subsequent 3-shot group of bulk .223 was only 1/4" off dead-center, and one of the .223 hits was within the .875" group. I'm using an old, heavy Cobray "megaphone" on the muzzle (wish I'd weighed it before "permanently" mounting), since it invariably tightened the groups with ALL ammo, while lowering the POI. And yes, the factory trigger was probably the worst I've ever felt (gritty), so I massaged it just a little which helped a lot (not even finalized yet), and added a lighter secondary sear spring and trigger shoe : )
@@kentuckybowl-o-sticks 5 to 10 shot groups are a more accurate sample size of what a rifle is capable of. Not sure how you didn't have keyholing using 77gr ammo given the fact that the Mini 14 uses a 1:9 twist barrel. A 1:7 or 1:8 twist rate is required to stabilize 5.56 over 64gr.
I had a mini 14 for 7 years in the 1990s and loved it, it was 100% reliable and took a lot of abuse but there's so many customising parts for the AR15 that you can bring it to exactly how you want it that makes the mini 14 very old school.
I always liked the looks of the Mini-14. I thought about buying one for a few years, until attending a patrol rifle class about 20 years ago. One of the attendees had a Mini-14, the rest of us used AR-15s. The guy with the Mini had nothing but trouble with his aftermarket magazines, and even had an out of battery discharge that blew out the guts of the magazine and showered me (I was right next to the guy) with hot brass fragments and gave me a dandy blister on the neck from a particularly large piece that was sizzling hot. I blamed the magazines for the most part, but with old Bill Ruger not wanting folks to have magazines over 10 rounds, most folks used aftermarket mags. I may get one someday for the hell of it. But if I do, I sure as hell am going to get factory mags only.
Got a Ruger MPR 18 used to be 600-800 dollars with really good modified trigger and full Picatinny rail and Mlok mounts on the stock aluminum float guard
Have two mini 14 s and carried one in my patrol car until Ruger made the 556 NATO ar 15 , now i carry that in the patrol car. My boy and I hunt with the mini s for small game and javelina and have had success using them . The mini 14 is a great gun for hunting or self defense.
I remember when people with big pin Colt AR HBARs dunked on the Mini-14 poors that shot Bernaul cat-piss scented 556 because the guns were so inaccurate that you wouldn't be able to tell the accuracy difference between it and Norma. Nowadays if you leave a store with a Colt, people wonder how many times you were dropped on your head as an infant.
Which to be fair, Mini owners have a terrible habit of saying they're better then AR's. I was a Mini-14 owner for awhile, and I'm hoping to get another one. But the Mini crowd can get carried away and annoying sometimes.
I was planning to buy a mini 14, but now I'm thinking I'm smart for doing so. Definitely appreciate this level of professionalism in a video for material goods.
I own 2, 180 series and a 580 series. During a rifle class the 580 series extractor blew out under a 1000 round class. Ruger took care of it had parts in 2 days. Customer service was great. Love the platform
Always liked the mini14, never actually fired one but I grew up watching The A-team and it’s a huge part of that series lol. What can I say, I love it when a plan comes together! Anything with irons from the factory gets a huge pile of bonus point from me.
Also, the pre 2003 models being inaccurate makes a lot of sense why all the bullets shot on that show never landed on a single person. Grew up on that show but watching it now is like watching a Disney+ Star Wars series about 4 Storm Troopers that went rogue…
James I am an INTP and I have a gallon of astroglide. Had one anyhow; I think your mum nicked it on her way out last week, said something about an idea about a fire hydrant.
I love my mini 14. Having a helluva time with mounting an optic and being happy with it. Just got the GG&G mount and it did not fit out of the box. Had to remove one of the alignment/recoil pins to make it fit.
Thank you for making this video, James. It’s very hard finding an out-of-the-box SA rifle that is NY compliant. And reviews on them are few and far between. Offers a lot of insight to Ruger’s quality and handling. Big help for us NYers behind 2A enemy lines.
Very good video! I've had my second-hand, 1987 vintage 185- since the mid/late 90's. It was a rescue - clad in a ghetto-fab, chincy plastic side folding stock. First, got her into a Ruger factory wood stock and a couple years later, a Ruger factory side folder stock I snapped up at a gunshow for $80. Minute of dinner plate accuracy @100 yrds, but I'm fine with this - having grown up watching the A-team. 😁 With a custom BFG sling, a small pile of 20 and 30 round Ruger mags along with a couple cases of .223 that most of my ARs turn their nose up at - and I'm set. ( Easy on doggin' 5.45 - just 'cuz some of us stocked up on them spam cans when it was dirt-cheap, no need to hate, bruh! 😁 It's put down its share of haji across Afghanistan and other scenic locations for many decades now. )
The profile of these rifles is better for tucking under a truck seat than the AR/AK platforms. I wish I would have bought one when they came out. I love absorbing Clint's wisdom. Thank You, Sir.
I have a 181 skinny barrel model I bought 40 years ago. Never had a jam. When I got on the range shortly after buying it for $179, I was getting 10-inch groups at 100 yards once it got hot. Later I added a ten-dollar steel flash suppressor on it that is a bit heavy. That reduced my 100-yard groups to 5-6 inches. No M4, but it's all I need for a fun and home defense carbine. If I were getting a new rifle today, I would go with a cheaper M4, like S and W Sport 2, but the improvement I would get today buying a new gun is not worth the cost.
I have wanted a mini-14 for many years, but living behind enemy lines (in CA) the firearms go for MORE than MSRP. Not a single pistol, rigle or shotgun I purchased in the past 20 years was for less than MSRP and lately most are going for $100 over.
@@BezmenovDisciple It's going for $1580 in NorCal as of June, 2023. That's about $100 over MSRP. It's all relative to where you live and your FFL. The biggest problem is the 10 day waiting period. I'm not going to drive 3+ hours away from the Bay Area to buy from a small FFL in a small town to save $100, then have to spend that money on gas going back and forth 4 times.
@@Uberragen21 Bruh, you're in California, everyone there just 80% a rifle or 3D prints the receiver and builds their guns from parts kits for like less than $400. Not even that hard to make it compliant if you believe in following unconstitutional regulations.
The Mini-14 will remain relevant for as long as states insist on banning more modern designs as "too scary." That said, the Mini isn't a bad rifle. It's handy, it snaps to the shoulder, it's easy to carry, and it gets the job done. I'm glad Ruger finally addressed the accuracy issues, because that was long overdue. It's never going to out compete the AR-15, but nothing else chambered in 5.56 will either. The Mini-14 is its own rifle. If you have a use for it, there's nothing wrong with adding it to your safe.
First of all..... "GREAT VIDEO!" I'm a retired member of "law enforcement." The Ruger Mini - 14 is a firearm that I've used and have had a lot of training with. I always enjoyed my interactions with it. Now (just recently), I've been discussing the newer version of it with my 33 year old son, who, like me, is a gun enthusiast. The conversation is simply about purchasing one to add to my collection. And, of course, to enjoy at the range. Your video is "saturated" with pertinent information regarding this weapon..... "Loved it!"...... thank you.
Got a 583-series stainless Ranch. Added a Samson Hannibal rail (the single best upgrade you can do to a Mini,) a green dot reflex, and an Accu-Strut. It fires softly, accurately, reliably, and it's fun as hell. Built like a tank, too. Makes a great plinker/small game hunter/scout rifle. Minis also have excellent triggers right out of the box. Is it as modular and customizable as an AR? No. Is it a good rifle regardless? Yes. Most people who trash the Mini simply do so off repeating internet "truths" or because it's not an AR.
@@timberlandone4054 I think the thing that gets me is the complete denial of preference. Preferring a solid wooden stock, a rifle without a pistol grip, or a fully stainless Garand-style side-charging action are most definitely things - but many will just shrug them off as if they don't matter because "AR better" and obviously you're only allowed to like the thing that does the job passably well for the least amount of money. I guess if all we are allowed to care about is efficiency per dollar that means we're all doomed to drive used Corollas and eat nothing but canned tuna fish on wheat. For what it's worth, I also own 4 ARs. They're all good rifles too. I still like the Mini.
Can you compare the Hannibal to Ultimak? I have an Ultimak but don't know if it's worth shelling out more cash. I imagine the Hannibal gets just as scorching hot.
@@NancyAllensToiletSeat I can't, never handled one with an Ultimak. They look really similar, minus the holes in the side and the optic cuts in the Hannibal.
This is an awesome video. I was surprised to learn how well the rifle has performed at Thunder Ranch. It’s cool to think of this rifle like a song performed by a singer other than the original performer who actually performed it better than the original performer. Great video!
@@johnmoore8067Any decent modern AR at watered-down modern AR prices! Mini was the big daddy to the AR before the general public even knew what ARs were outside of Vietnam. Mini was the 2A to the government AR and now people want to act like ARs were Minis when they weren't even on the market for civilian sale. 2A is way more Mini than ANY government AR will ever be
Im a Mini fan. I have a 188 S/N Ranch Rifle. I put a harmonic stabilizer on it. Have a Monstrum 3x9 optic. Im 1.5 to 2 inch groups at 100 all day long. It shoots great, very little recoil. And .223 is cheap enough....
Side note, you can but an awesome heavy 20” barrel for the Mini and an adjustable gas block so you don’t have to launch your brass into the next county. The adjustable gas block also also prevents that ejection dent.
Great video. Thumb up on the Mini 14. Even though I had an Uncle Sam issued Colt CAR 15 back in the day, the personal tactical rifle that I purchased under the LE buying program was a Mini GB Model.
love my mini-30. will never get rid of it. foregoes the need for an ar-15 and an ak47. only problem with it is that its perhaps a little on the heavy side. other then that, its amazing. rugged, quality made, will last 100 years.
Put a Hogue stock on it. You pick up a little more length of pull and for what ever reason it feels much lighter. You be the judge. It will improve the grip 100%. I have the mini 30. Iron sight and a 10 dollar sling from Tech Sights. Plain and simple.
@@jp92382 If you do an image search for the mini 14 you may find one with the O.D. stock. Mine is 5803 with blued barrel. It does look nice. Nice clean lines with no mods.
I love the mini 14. They have an A-Team style mini at one of my locals, that I’ve been eyeballing for a while. They want $1400 for it, and I am justifying buying it 😅 It would cost more to buy one, as well as a folding stock, and to have the work done. That rifle would definitely get some attention at the range too lol
If it's an original run from back in the 80s hop on it they are only going up in value. Hope you said screw it and picked her up cause you wouldn't be disappointed.
Great video. Rather than an alternative to the AR or other platforms, I view the Mini-14 as a capable addition to the tool chest. I've owned and shot Mini's for 2 decades and have always appreciated them as handy and capable long guns. I think the accuracy deficit of the Mini compared to an AR-15 is more of an oft-repeated talking point than a serious practical disadvantage. No doubt the AR is intrinsically likely to shoot smaller groups under controlled conditions, but either can engage "minute of pie plate" targets effectively at extended ranges detectable to the naked eye. And although entirely illogical, the Mini doesn't trigger panic attacks by antis the way EBR's do. The unaltered Mini is barren of evil features, making it an easier sell in certain ban states. There is not much in the way of useful accessories such as with the AR, and reliability with anything other than pricey factory magazines may be an issue, but there are still a lot of fans out there, including me.
I’ve always wanted one. Cool looking firearm. I’m a fan of having as many firearms as possible with round compatibility…just wish mags were compatible w/ the ar
Mine starts582 Ranch shoots 222 556 new ejected issues sent back n/c fixed,put red dot on took cap off water bottle, bottle still standing get recreational sporting fun ,I leave magazine in all the time makes little easier, would be nice conversion kit for quick mag change
I love the Mini series. They scratch the M1a itch in a smaller and lighter package. The Ranch Rifle concept is solid, and for a “woods gun”, the slimmer profile (and no pistol grip) makes sense (won’t get hung up on vegetation while slung over the shoulder). I had a Mini 30 for a while back in the day but finding good magazines with a capacity over 10 rounds was a crap shoot at best. If the Mini 14 could take STANAG or PMags, theyd sell a metric fuckton more rifles (especially in more restrictive locations).
I have always been under the impression that mini 30 came first. Also I remember watching the A-Team and ever since I had wanted a mini 14. Took me years to get one. So when I saw one in my favorite gun store and it was in 300blk. I scooped it up. I have sensed put it in the stock like on the A-Team had there's.
You bamboozled us, James!!! That wasn't cornstarch you used in that Mini-14 test. It was GOLD BOND Medicated Body Powder! Maybe something you had lying around to powder your under bag before you take Grinder selfies. Still love the channel, regardless. You Mo!
The mini 14 was one of the first firearms I ever shot when I was a kid. My grandfathers. I remember hiting a bullseye from about 25-30 yards on one of my very first shots, so it cant be that bad! 😆 Wish I inherited it though.. Not sure what happened to all of his firearms after he passed. I think my uncle has most of them, who I dont see much.
Great video, great rifle. I'm on my second Mini; the first I foolishly traded away. Never want to be without one. It easily digests ammo that makes my ARs choke. Roger on the magazine issue. Long live the Mini!
I can personally attest to the magazine issue. The only time my mini had any malfunction was with a third party magazine. All the rest of my mags are Ruger brand, and function flawlessly. That's the only major downside I can think of. It's not a perfect rifle, but I love it for what it is. It may not be a tack driver, but as long as it's "minute of bad guy" it's good enough for any practical application.
I had a mini-14 when I was a kid and thought it was a piece of trash, jammed every couple rounds. A decade later I discovered that we only had AR mags for it, and decided to buy a couple authentic ruger mags. After that the gun never had a problem again
They are now way over priced and not as good or accurate as a budget AR. The AR platform is just so modular and better. Tons of spare parts and options and so damn easy to strip and clean. Mr Stoner hit a home run with his design
I put a scout rail on my mini with a fixed 2.5 9 inch eye relief forward mounted Leupold. Keeps the breach clear and much better operation. It’s a rapid fire laser. The extractor cracked after 1000s of rounds and that was a problem. Replaced that and it runs like new.
I wonder if we'll ever get a variant with a STANAG compatible magwell. Can't help but think that if they could pull that off well, they'd sell significantly more Minis.
Obsolete, maybe. But I can't deny that the Mini-14 has this charm to it. Sure, AR-15 pattern rifles are more popular, but the Mini-14's profile just looks great IMHO.
Good one James. I picked up my SS Ranch after disappointment with a Springfield Saint AR. Degassed it a bit with ports from Accuracy Systems, and recently sent the trigger group to A.S. for their Service Grade mod. $100 and a week later it came back with a crisp 4-pound trigger in place of the 6-pound creepy one it left with. Next up will be an adjustable gas block that will allow fine tuning and the option to used it as a straight-pull so I don’t have to scratch in the dirt for my brass. Absolutely dead-reliable and I can walk around my local WMA with a 5-round flush mag without any dog-walkers calling out SWAT. Runs wet or dry, and as Clint said, I feel I can leave it lay for a week, a year, or a decade, then pick it up and bang away. Thanks for all the good content.
So let me get this straight: You were disappointed in your Saint (which is fair, they're not the greatest) so you spent more money on a Mini which is more expensive already, then paid shipping and services to upgrade the trigger AND the gas system?
![Why Won't the Ruger Mini-14 Just Die? [Part 1]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EzyGl_w-IXg/mqdefault.jpg)
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
I am a metallurgist. Your question about casting vs forging is a good one. Typically forging is stronger than casting. Ruger uses investment casting which is a superior casting method. Ruger is also very good at it, and I have seen the process personally and that's all I can say about that. Aerospace uses investment casting for a lot of things. Yes forging in general is better than casting but the Ruger investment cast is better than a bad forging, and believe me there are a lot of bad forgings. The question shouldn't be which is better, it should be is it good enough for the application. Compromises are made every day in manufacturing. In this case I would have no issue relying on an investment casting from Ruger. No I do not work for them, and Yes castings can fail, but so can forgings and billets.
All else being equal, a forging is stronger than a casting, but if its designed as a casting, forging it adds unnecessary cost. A good engineer will make it as strong as it needs to be with the materials and processes being used. By all accounts, Bill Ruger was a good engineer, and his legacy continues at the company bearing his name.
@@chrissmalley83 agreed 👍
You're so cool man, thanks for the good info.
Let's not forget that Ruger was first and foremost, an investment casting company, and still are today 👍
It was good enough, making the part heavier to compensate isn't anymore.
When i was a kid i saw 3 guys with mini 14s shoot from a black and red van at a jeep, the jeep exploded and flipped end over end.
And one of them stuck his head out the window and yelled "I pity the fool!"
And the guys in the Jeep all got out and ran away, right?
Yeah, yeah, I remember that! Man that was a great movie! I can’t remember the name though…..😮😅😅😅
Just kidding buddy 😁
I love it when a plan comes together…
This is true. I saw it myself.
I have a Mini-14 Ranch Rifle made in 1986. I polished the trigger and shimmed the gas block to tame it down and I'm getting 2 MOA accuracy. In 2019 the extractor cracked. I called Ruger and they sent me the kit to replace the extractor and other bolt parts free of charge. They even offered to do the work at the factory, but I chose to do it myself. You can't beat that for service. As far as dependability, the only failure I've ever experienced (aside from the cracked extractor) was when firing ammo that had not been properly crimped. Getting a bullet jammed in the barrel is some scary schnizzle. I will never buy gun show reloads again. Thanks for the videos.
Do you have 2 friends. And a van?
Thanks for sharing
That sucks cuz i hit up marlin i say, if i ever need parts for this old gun can you help? They say no
Interesting - I had the same issue with my Mini-14, cracked extractor. Ruger sent me a new extractor claw, pin, and spring free of charge. They have excellent customer service
I think at this point in the game, if it's a semiautomatic rifle that goes bang more often than not and is 3 MOA or better, it is completely adequate for anything you might possibly use it for.
Well said. And a lot of people would be extremely less stressed out if they'd read your comment a couple times.
Yep!
People forget 3 MOA meets military requirements, at least on the M16A2.
@@tufelhunden5795 I haven't forgotten at all. I just also haven't forgotten that studies incate a 20,000+ rounds-to-kill ratio for our military...
Other than doming groundhogs on the ranch, which is what the mini is billed for. 3 MOA is trash precision. Literally the difference between a clean kill or not for most of my applications.
I'm from Canada and thoroughly enjoy you videos and reviews. I have always wanted to own a Mini 14, since watching our local Tactical Team use them. A couple of years ago, I sold off many of long guns with the intention of stocking my locker with a handful of really good weapons. Mini was on the list.
Then the Canadian government decided the Mini was an assault weapon and banned it before I could purchase one.😢 it will forever be one of my dream long guns.
Gotta come to the US
You live in a beautiful country. But either vote out your restrictive, totalitarian government, or move to a freer country (although the threat exists for them too).
FJT again!
Vote out Castro
U can top load the mini right l guys? Ik not a big deal but I think it’s a cool af feature
You don't get a mini14 because it's better than an AR, you get it because it's cooler than an AR, and that's what really matters.
Indeed. The AR platform is GREAT for a lot of things but it sure ain't pretty compared to a lot of others.
Hell yes!!
Right... The "cool factor" has nothing to do with the fact that the AR platform singly represents more than 11% of all the firearms in circulation in the US. Just what is it with those AR's ??? They're so uncool !?!?!?!🤷♂🤷♂🤷♂
@williamwood9942 plentiful does not equal cool. There are more Honda civics on the road than corvettes, does that mean corvettes aren't cool?
@@williamwood9942 I love my AR. It's my go to rifle for "oh shit" situations. But the Mini 14 is so much cooler and way more fun to shoot dude lol
I absolutely love the attention the Garand-Style rifles are getting. From the recent M1A video and now this, I hope this pushes the market to give it some more support.
Ooh, the wheelbarrow approach is best for the fact that you suck as a shooter! Picking the easiest platform doesn't make you good in any way. Let us now all play video games on easy because it makes us look good 👍
@@the_watcher_abcThat's kind of the point though. More market attention ideally means a push for better quality.
Also, if you're talking about an M1A, that's usually a problem with mounting sights to them. They're actually fairly accurate rifles, most can hold around a 2 or lower MOA, with the worst tending to be closer to 3-4 MOA. The thing is they're not very good for mounting optics, at least with the original furniture. Their original furniture, much like the M14, is notorious for causing accuracy issues, which is part of why the military replaced the furniture for it. Plus many scope mounts people buy for it are complete garbage, usually poor quality aluminum mounts that just aren't really up to taking the recoil of .308
With good furniture, and a good mount, just like any gun, they're actually pretty accurate guns.
Would more attention to these types of weapons Bring down the cost? I want a M1a/m14 so bad
I wish Ruger would lose the patent like they did with the 10/22, then we'd see some innovation and a reduction in cost due to competition.
There are two major problems with the mini. The first one is accuracy, this can be greatly improved by gas port bushings and a barrel brace. The second is the magazines. If Ruger would get their thumb out of their ass and charge a reasonable price for magazines.
I’ve got a SS made in 1984. 100% reliable and 2 MOA. I’ve got a 2020 Ranch that I’d describe the exact same way. I use 55 Grain ammo in both.
Glad to see the Mini 14 get some respect!
Did you have to modify the older mini 14 to get 2 moa?
My hunting buddy was a range master at a California state prison. He told me that he had several mini 14s in the armory that the officers qualified with that had over two hundred thousand documented rounds through them. I've had mine for over 20 years, and I can't remember ever having any problems with it.
200,000 rounds my ass, the rifle would end up a smooth bore at that point.
@@sunlight-sky151 I have no doubt that that many rounds had gone through those rifles. . . I also have no doubt that those rifles underwent regular maintenance, including the changing out of failing parts, like barrels, and that Mini-14 accuracy in general wouldn't be considered a 'problem' for officer qualification.
you nailed it, just more fudd lore. @@sunlight-sky151
@sunlight-sky151 which is probably accurate enough for shooting into the exercise yard
Most DOC'S seem to keep Mini 14's in their armories.
Bought one new for $179 in 1977. Owned a few ARs since that proved a bit more accurate & reliable but the mini still stands out as one of the funnest rifles.
I almost went for the mini, but ended up getting an SKS because it was half the price and ammo was cheaper.
Yeah, those $89 SKS's were a bargain.
Biggest problem with the mini is the magazines. Other than that, definitely a good rifle. As far as a cast receiver, ruger has been doing it since 1963, 64. They definitely know their stuff.
Biggest problem with the mini 14 is the barrel flexes due to the harmonics of gun. Ak does the same thing. Its an antiquated design. And the early ones DID have machined receivers(AC556) They buck around in full auto pretty bad too. I had an early AC556 years ago, you can improve them, but it isn't cheap.
@@kennethbranson4711lol the fact that you think that matters in a 2-3moa gun using an intermediate cartridge is laughable
@@TheDiameter if you say so. I don't think you catch what im telling you. The barrel flexes. Your confusing what im saying with a different phenomenon.
@@kennethbranson4711bingo, I noticed all the best shooting ones had an adjustable gas block installed and were down tuned to help tame the harmonics.
It will always be inherently less accurate than modern designs, but that seems to go a long way in taming those harmonics.
@@TheDiameterit matters when I may be shooting a rabbit at 100-200 meters on my ranch. Or squirrels at 100 meters.
I also had first round fliers more than 20 cm off zero every hand loaded round. The only fix was to waste a round firing into the dirt so thr rifle could auto-load.
Even then it rarely held zero more than a week.
Came for the Mini 14 stayed for the Rugged Alaskan. That suppressor is in my sights.
Thanks for the like James.Hopfully you can tell Kellie at Rugged to make it in a 30 cal specific model.
@@uh60ce1 30 cal? For what reasons? We are just wondering
So You Tube has not let me reply to this twice ....here goes number 3
Ok seems to be working so basically it is a lot of money for something I cannot find in stock in Virginia. Typically a suppressor that is dedicated for caliber will have better sound/signature capability less flash signature and have a smaller outside diameter. I don't think I would be unhappy at all with this suppressor, I just want to know what I am getting and try it possibly before I drop a lot of money on it. If there was a 30 version of it, maybe it would give me a warm and fuzzy feeling about it and honestly everything I own is 300 Win Mag or less. I will say I think it's the most Sick looking suppressor on the market. I just don't like the unknown if that makes sense?
This needs a trademark ™️
Late to the party - Illinois recent passed an “assault weapons” ban. I’m not “allowed” to own an “AR-15 style” rifle but I’m somehow “allowed” by our Great Khan Pritzker to own a Mini - 14.
Very thankful that I’m only in Illinois for my master’s. Getting tf out as soon as it’s over and never coming back.
Well yeah it's not scary and plastic
So what happens if you already owned one? Also, what happens if you move there from another state and own one?
@@danefuentes3877 an AR? They were grandfathered in but you have to register them with the state government lmao.
@@coreybenson3122 Oh, wow. And I thought we had it bad in California. Thanks for your response though.
This kind of review is especially great for people in restricted states, like MA, CA, or NY, where rifle options are limited.
The mini 14 is the best option for states that don't allow the AR platform imo.
@@adamcarter4947so what is?
@@adamcarter4947or the new cmmg BR4 if you can afford it!!!
I live in Illinois and can't (legally) buy any semi-automatic rifle that can accept detachable magazines.
@@Kitsuragi556 get an SKS with internal 10rd magazine and get good with the strippers.
Love my mini-14 with Samson folding stock. A-TEAM baby!! Best 223 recoil rifle for its weight.
Mini 14 was my first rifle and so much fun to shoot. Really cool to see an in depth look at it.
We totally agree with you about the Mini-14. My wife has shot a three-quarter inch group with this gun at 100 yards using Frontier ammo with 55 grain otm bullets.
I'm so glad you made this video, my father was a Vietnam vet, 11B , he loved his M14, I'm a former 11B also. Loved my M16 A2 and later the M4, my father purchased M1A1, and later the mini 14, I absolutely love these rifles, never had a issue, even went out and bought a M1 carbine. Great video,!
I just like how it looks. It's the perfect mix of classic and tactical for a ranch rifle.
Too loud!
It's a gun... Of course its loud.
I have owned the mini 14 and the mini 30. If I lived in a free state I would still own one. These rifles are very reliable, accurate, and a lot of fun to shoot. They are also legal in non free states.
As a Commiefornian, I enjoy my 30 way more than my friends enjoy their wing gripped ARs. Please don't tell our Governor
@@Thurston.Howell.the.3rd I also have a mini-30, but I also also have a 18in .308 Aero M5 w/ AR Maglock on it. I enjoy both, haha. If you're not familiar with Reno May you should check him out for CA related 2nd A news.
@Thurston.Howell.the.3rd as a fellow commiefornian, you can buy pretty much anything. You just can't "have it on your rifle.", and you can't "drill the rivets out of standard cap mags pinned at 10 rounds."
@@Thurston.Howell.the.3rd meanwhile, I'm over here with an SCR. There are twos of us, I swear!
Not legal in the lefty police state of Illinois, unfortunately.
I’ve owned quite a few dating back to the late 1980’s. Owned Ranch versions early ones. Then when the Tactical came out I bought one in 5.56 and shot it a lot. As I was raised shooting M1, M1 carbines and M1A’s I’m much better with it than any of the AR’s I own. I traded all my older Mini’s for the newer versions in 7.62x39 and 300 blackout. So now the stable in I own three AR’s and 5 mini’s. Along with a M1 carbine and a couple of springfield M1A Socom. But then again I was raised on a farm and once you know how to use tools buy the best ones you can afford and maintain them. That’s why most of my pistols are not polymer but metal also. But I’m a older guy who still likes 70’s and 80’s rock and country and drives a 20 year old truck. Oh and my truck gun is a Marlin 1894C in 357 mag. 🤠🇺🇸👍
Raised in the country as well and prefer all metal pistols too!! I have 2 m1 carbines , 2 minis ( 556, 300 BO) and one AR 15 in 300 BO. Love the action on these minis ! They are just simple and easy to use . 😊
I live in Massachusetts.. this is my AR 15.
Awesome video as always thanks! I had a mini 14 in the first decade of the 21st century and only problems I had was with aftermarket mags. If I used Ruger mags no issues.
I have thought for decades that Magpul NEEDS to start selling Mini-14 magazines. C’mon, Magpul!
Thermold makes the best polymer Mini-14 magazine. Everyone seems to forget they exist, but they are half the price and run great
Agreed
The promag metal mini 14 mags seem to work well. I honestly don't like polymer mags in a mini 14.
I have both the Ruger mags and the ProMags and use them interchangeably with never a feeding issue. High quality mags won't let you down.
What's that ya say? The Rugged Alaska 360? Why that sounds like a mighty fine suppressor, young fella.
Happy to see some love given to the Mini. I absolutely love mine, never had a single issue with it. Every time I’ve pulled the trigger it has worked flawlessly.
The Mini 14 is still the primary duty rifle California Department of Corrections and is currently in hundreds of control booths and towers at prisons across the state. For its intended purpose, its very effective. Nothing sharpens the senses of inmates fighting faster that that action slamming shut. Might as well be a pin dropping in a silent room.
Good info. Thanks.
Copy that brother. GET DOWN!
To be fair, working the action on Any weapon will put that into you
The documentary about the Green Beret team that is in the Los Angeles underground first exposed me to the Mini 14. I may own one someday. The Ruger Mini 14 is slightly more ban proof & may look less "aggressive" than AR15s to some new shooters at my 2A4E Diversity Shoot events.
How do we find that documentary? Sounds interesting and wasn’t able to find it with a quick search online.
Hope you’re joking about “2A for everyone” 😂 arming the opps smdh
2A is for everyone, not just people you agree with.
@@rivergoff8022A is only for Americans, Libtards, BLM and Antifa are not Americans.
@@locksneedfartn other Americans are the opposition??
I got a 30 around 18 months ago and have loved it since! I did use an aftermarket Ruger/Weigand Pic Rail so I could mount a Red Dot+Magnifier combo. Which I also love! Great video!
I just picked mine up yesterday, a 5816. Had one a couple decades ago just got a hankering for another. I only paid twice as much as I did the first go around.
The mini has several good design features.
• Simple controls.
_(even moreso than the AK)_
• Rock & Lock mags advocated for by several prominent individuals for a general service rifle.
_(Larry Vickers, Ian McCollum, etc)_
• Low sight over bore axis
- Point of Aim = Point of Impact
- Smaller shooter Silhouette.
• Traditional stock has advantages for retention techniques.
_(and classic bayonet/fighting techniques)_
• Lightweight
• Reliable & proven action.
Too loud on my ears
@@maxsoregonok
@maxsoregon I have never had my AR have a failure to feed. Not once with over 5,000 rounds fired so far and taken through many mud and sand tests. Keeping a rifle clean and oiled properly works wonders.
@@oxh4rb1ng3rxo5 wait till you get a slightly bent round ! You'll find an epic jam ! And I don't mean jelly jam ! 😅🤣
@@Vmaxfodderyou should be catching anything bent that badly during inspection and mag loading. You shouldn’t be trying to feed bent rounds to begin with.
Thanks!
I have an old 184 serial number mini 14 and it surprisingly likes the poly tapco mags that had the metal around the top.
I’ve been wanting a mini-14 for a few months now, so this makes me feel better about that decision. It’s just one of those wallflower guns that’s been around forever but only recently caught my eye. I like the caliber, but I’ve never cared for the AR-15 look and feel. A nice wood stock and stainless steel rifle is what I’m attracted to. I’d definitely get that Sampson upper hand guard with pic rail. The plastic guard it comes with just seems cheap.
Yea I don't like the ergonomics of an AR but I also grew up shooting AKs and SKS for 30 years shooting them. The Mini-14 being a piston gin and not DI is what stands out the most to me.
I am a m16a2 clone lover(my most used firearm) and it's a vibe for me, and the 20" rifle length gas and buffer tube make it feel like the perfect instrument at the range to me
That being said, I fully appreciate that wood and stainless steel look of the mini-14, but having used it, it's not for *me* I'm 100% sure it's definitely right for others though, it really is a wallflower that people need to try as a "range partner" and see if it all jives well with them, didn't with me, but I hope it does for you, because it really has this look to it of like "I'm awesome, I don't care if you like me"
Your comment really makes me wanna borrow or rent one and try again and see if I'm just basic late cold war vibe loving, or can enjoy that m14/classic rifle with wood style it has
"I like the caliber, but I’ve never cared for the AR-15 look and feel."
@@Enjoyer.762 does that make someone a fudd to not like the look?
He's not taking it into battle, and he's fine with others owning an AR
A real fudd would say "no one should own an AR" not "I never really cared for it"
Cus I never really cared for the VZ 58, but would never discourage someone from getting it
@@JaykPuten VZ58 is ugly as sin but its a functional and reliable rifle with the fun fact it's a milled reciever. Buuuuut I also have a soft spot for ugly guns. I have a PS90 and a beretta CX4 so 🤷
My wife after a minute of watching James: “He’d be hot if he wasn’t a weirdo.”
That’s what I say about my wife’s boyfriend
@@horsebones727Just happened to stumble by this comment and gd 😂
Bought mine in 1986, put a SHilen target barrel on it in 89. Still shoots as well as any AR I've owned.
My Mini-14 is a 187 series rifle I bought new. The Ranch rifle version with Ruger rings. I mounted a 3-9x Redfield Widefield scope. Used it on woodchucks for years with no problems, as cold bore shots are dead on. A couple years ago I installed a barrel stabilizer which helped greatly when shooting steel at the range. My only complaint, and others at the range, is it throws brass 30-40 feet to the right.
Yes it does, never seen a gun throw brass like a mini will
May have missed it... Is James running THE RUGGED ALASKAN on that build? Wasn't sure. Entirely.
I’m shocked they didn’t just adapt the design to accept AR mags.
Money money money
Ikr, the most obvious thing to do to sell a boat load of these boomer sticks & Ruger won't do it. I wouldn't be against getting 1 if they did that.
I’m not sure how much it would help the mini’s market share to be honest. It seems like it might just prompt even more “well at that point just get an ar” comparisons to me.
You can, but not without mods, and it jams like a MFer
The metal Pro mags are just as good as Ruger mags. Last price point I saw was $40 at Cabela's Bass pro shop
I love it, but I also love the AR, AK, lever, bolt, pump, revolver, single shot, blackpowder, hell just gun I like them, sorry for the long iteration but yes guns good!
I prefer the Mini 30 myself, but the Mini 14 is equally a great, reliable and rugged gun. I Made two upgrades to my Mini 30. Accuracy Systems firing pin is a must! Once I put their Extended firing pin in the carrier bolt, well its EATS EVERYTHING. The Extended firing pin is about .02 to .03 longer. It ignites steel cased ammo! It EATS EVERYTHING! $70 dollar upgrade made this gun an absolute workhorse!
The next upgrade I made was a lighter Sear Spring by MCarbo for $12.95. Then I polished the hammer sear and trigger sear. The trigger is smooth and crisp now. My trigger averages about 4 pounds now. It has some take up though.
Old school here...I just prefer the carbine feel of the mini 14 to the AR. The flat top, pistol grip, sight two inches above the barrel doesn't do it for me at all. Put a M14 or a mini 14 to your shoulder and it just fits like it's supposed to...comfortable, quick, and right in front of your dominate eye. Just easier to shoot, less busy. Kind of like a trap gun vs a heavy combat shotgun. Lighter, quicker, easier to aim.
Same here. The A. R. Is awkward
More power to you, but that is pretty subjective.
@@georgewhitworth9742 No shit 😂 that's why they said "prefer"
I've always loved the looks of the Mini-14; it really is like an M1 Carbine in a more available caliber. I'm glad that Ruger is still making them, and I intend to pick one up sometime. Thanks for the great video, and Clint's excellent words of wisdom are always welcome!
I never thought of it as just an advanced m1 carbine, but I kind of like the way that sounds.
I have a stainless wood stock mini 14 and i love it. for me its mostly the hertitage of it being based off the m14. i just love how they have the same action and everything. Plus it makes a sweet sound when you rack the bolt
😊
I love my mini. Mine is an older version passed down from my dad that came with a flash hider and bayonet lug. Mine's been tremendously reliable and now wears an A-TM stock. As for parts breakages, I actually did have to replace a part for the manual bolt hold open. Back then those pieces had what was essentially a wire as part of the assembly. The replacement I got was a newer Ruger part that was a solid piece of metal instead of the wire, so they seem to have noticed and addressed that issue. Besides that, she's over 40 years old and still running like a sewing machine.
Haven't seen any wire on a Mini 30 as it was a machined horseshoe piece that held the bolt when the dinky plunger was engaged
@luislongoria6621 Yeah I suspect it was an older design that Ruger quickly realized was an issue and fixed
I purchased mine in a state where a Mini-14 was NOT considered a tactical rifle, so not state permit was needed to purchase. It was my first semi auto rifle…and I still hold to it as a favorite firearm.
This continues to be my favorite video on RUclips. I've always been a fan of the Mini-14. I've carried M-16s and M-4s for 25+ years in the Army and I just prefer the open bolt clean action the Mini-14 provides to the messy M-16/M-4/AR platforms that dump carbon in the action. Some modifications I recommend that I did are installing the Samson Hannibal rail if you intend to use a red dot, installing the Tech Sights adjustable rear sight and tool for iron sight shooting, installing the Accuracy Systems adjustable gas block, and installing a Mo-Reaper muzzle brake/sight assembly. There are other modifications such as custom stock swaps that are super cool. You can completely change the look and feel of this rifle because it is compacted down to the action and barrel.
I have the newer black version with a sampson walnut folding stock, accustrut barrel brace, all metal dust cover, and mcarbo trigger kit. It shoots lights out and groups (almost) as good as my 20" custom DMR build. Everyone who shoots it drools over the thing, plus its probably the coolest looking gun with a sig romeo mounted on the pic rail. Two thumbs up from me. 20round ruger mags are a MUST.
Accustrut does make a significant difference!
When I tell people what my Tactical (Model 5888) can do, they call me a liar (on the Internet, I mean : )
I've done a .875" 3-shot group, w/two in one figure-8 hole, with its favorite ammo so far, which is Hornady Superformance Match 5.56 75 gr. BTHP. And that was literally the first shots fired after a complete tear-down and cleaning, including R&R scope. Average of 6 shots w/a subsequent 3-shot group of bulk .223 was only 1/4" off dead-center, and one of the .223 hits was within the .875" group.
I'm using an old, heavy Cobray "megaphone" on the muzzle (wish I'd weighed it before "permanently" mounting), since it invariably tightened the groups with ALL ammo, while lowering the POI. And yes, the factory trigger was probably the worst I've ever felt (gritty), so I massaged it just a little which helped a lot (not even finalized yet), and added a lighter secondary sear spring and trigger shoe : )
So glad I saw this I forgot to ever buy the accustrut! I always meant to oh sheit lol
A rifle that requires an accustrut is inherently inaccurate.
@@kentuckybowl-o-sticks 5 to 10 shot groups are a more accurate sample size of what a rifle is capable of. Not sure how you didn't have keyholing using 77gr ammo given the fact that the Mini 14 uses a 1:9 twist barrel. A 1:7 or 1:8 twist rate is required to stabilize 5.56 over 64gr.
I had a mini 14 for 7 years in the 1990s and loved it, it was 100% reliable and took a lot of abuse but there's so many customising parts for the AR15 that you can bring it to exactly how you want it that makes the mini 14 very old school.
I always liked the looks of the Mini-14. I thought about buying one for a few years, until attending a patrol rifle class about 20 years ago. One of the attendees had a Mini-14, the rest of us used AR-15s. The guy with the Mini had nothing but trouble with his aftermarket magazines, and even had an out of battery discharge that blew out the guts of the magazine and showered me (I was right next to the guy) with hot brass fragments and gave me a dandy blister on the neck from a particularly large piece that was sizzling hot. I blamed the magazines for the most part, but with old Bill Ruger not wanting folks to have magazines over 10 rounds, most folks used aftermarket mags. I may get one someday for the hell of it. But if I do, I sure as hell am going to get factory mags only.
The Mini 14 is hot garbage
Got a Ruger MPR 18 used to be 600-800 dollars with really good modified trigger and full Picatinny rail and Mlok mounts on the stock aluminum float guard
Have two mini 14 s and carried one in my patrol car until Ruger made the 556 NATO ar 15 , now i carry that in the patrol car. My boy and I hunt with the mini s for small game and javelina and have had success using them . The mini 14 is a great gun for hunting or self defense.
The Mini 14 is the ultimate troll lords rifle. Upon mention of the Mini 14, you will INEVITABLY hear someone say "But muh AR"
@@Riorozen At this point even decent ar’s are cheaper.
And they’d be right. Paying more for an inferior rifle makes you feel like the smart troll. Good for ya.
I remember when people with big pin Colt AR HBARs dunked on the Mini-14 poors that shot Bernaul cat-piss scented 556 because the guns were so inaccurate that you wouldn't be able to tell the accuracy difference between it and Norma.
Nowadays if you leave a store with a Colt, people wonder how many times you were dropped on your head as an infant.
Which to be fair, Mini owners have a terrible habit of saying they're better then AR's.
I was a Mini-14 owner for awhile, and I'm hoping to get another one. But the Mini crowd can get carried away and annoying sometimes.
@@georgewhitworth9742Just like the AR crowd...
I had a Mini 14 Tactical that was very much a reasonable alternative to an AR. Liked it but a guy wanted it and traded me an M1A Scout, so it went.
You got the better gun in that trade
That’s a hell of a trade!! I wish!
Also gave him a beat up Springfield GI 1911. So no, I didn't rob him.
For some reason I want a rugged Alaskan 360, I am shopping for my MP5 clone
I was planning to buy a mini 14, but now I'm thinking I'm smart for doing so. Definitely appreciate this level of professionalism in a video for material goods.
I own 2, 180 series and a 580 series. During a rifle class the 580 series extractor blew out under a 1000 round class. Ruger took care of it had parts in 2 days. Customer service was great. Love the platform
I own 6 AR15's but I still want a Mini 14. I have wanted one for years but never bought one. I am going to have to get one.
I am a HUGE fan of the Garand action and the 4 rifle that encompass it. Personally, the M1 carbine is my favorite.
Hoooray for the m1 carbine ! My fav as well. Get some underwood bullets going 2150 fps and they really seem to upgrade the caliber some!
Always liked the mini14, never actually fired one but I grew up watching The A-team and it’s a huge part of that series lol. What can I say, I love it when a plan comes together! Anything with irons from the factory gets a huge pile of bonus point from me.
Also, the pre 2003 models being inaccurate makes a lot of sense why all the bullets shot on that show never landed on a single person. Grew up on that show but watching it now is like watching a Disney+ Star Wars series about 4 Storm Troopers that went rogue…
It hurts my ears ....very loud
James I am an INTP and I have a gallon of astroglide. Had one anyhow; I think your mum nicked it on her way out last week, said something about an idea about a fire hydrant.
Love both platforms - the AR and Mini are 2 of the best designs I've ever owned
I love my mini 14. Having a helluva time with mounting an optic and being happy with it. Just got the GG&G mount and it did not fit out of the box. Had to remove one of the alignment/recoil pins to make it fit.
Get the Hannibal rail and a red dot.
Thank you for making this video, James. It’s very hard finding an out-of-the-box SA rifle that is NY compliant. And reviews on them are few and far between. Offers a lot of insight to Ruger’s quality and handling. Big help for us NYers behind 2A enemy lines.
Stop voting for anti 2A politicians
I show what an SA M1A can do on my channel. They are typically great rifles.
Very good video!
I've had my second-hand, 1987 vintage 185- since the mid/late 90's.
It was a rescue - clad in a ghetto-fab, chincy plastic side folding stock. First, got her into a Ruger factory wood stock and a couple years later, a Ruger factory side folder stock I snapped up at a gunshow for $80.
Minute of dinner plate accuracy @100 yrds, but I'm fine with this - having grown up watching the A-team. 😁
With a custom BFG sling, a small pile of 20 and 30 round Ruger mags along with a couple cases of .223 that most of my ARs turn their nose up at - and I'm set.
( Easy on doggin' 5.45 - just 'cuz some of us stocked up on them spam cans when it was dirt-cheap, no need to hate, bruh! 😁 It's put down its share of haji across Afghanistan and other scenic locations for many decades now. )
One of my absolute favorite rifles. My dad had a 180 series way back when. Great rifle!!
The profile of these rifles is better for tucking under a truck seat than the AR/AK platforms. I wish I would have bought one when they came out.
I love absorbing Clint's wisdom. Thank You, Sir.
I have a 181 skinny barrel model I bought 40 years ago. Never had a jam. When I got on the range shortly after buying it for $179, I was getting 10-inch groups at 100 yards once it got hot. Later I added a ten-dollar steel flash suppressor on it that is a bit heavy. That reduced my 100-yard groups to 5-6 inches. No M4, but it's all I need for a fun and home defense carbine.
If I were getting a new rifle today, I would go with a cheaper M4, like S and W Sport 2, but the improvement I would get today buying a new gun is not worth the cost.
There’s a strut that you can add to the barrel of the mini 14 older versions (181) that will improve your groupings.
I have wanted a mini-14 for many years, but living behind enemy lines (in CA) the firearms go for MORE than MSRP. Not a single pistol, rigle or shotgun I purchased in the past 20 years was for less than MSRP and lately most are going for $100 over.
Got my Mini in CA last summer for MSRP. Maybe even a little under.
@@BezmenovDisciple It's going for $1580 in NorCal as of June, 2023. That's about $100 over MSRP. It's all relative to where you live and your FFL.
The biggest problem is the 10 day waiting period. I'm not going to drive 3+ hours away from the Bay Area to buy from a small FFL in a small town to save $100, then have to spend that money on gas going back and forth 4 times.
@@Uberragen21 That’s fair.
@@Uberragen21 Picked up a wood stock mini 30 at Turners for around 900 bucks a year and a half ago.1580 is steep.
@@Uberragen21 Bruh, you're in California, everyone there just 80% a rifle or 3D prints the receiver and builds their guns from parts kits for like less than $400. Not even that hard to make it compliant if you believe in following unconstitutional regulations.
The Mini-14 will remain relevant for as long as states insist on banning more modern designs as "too scary." That said, the Mini isn't a bad rifle. It's handy, it snaps to the shoulder, it's easy to carry, and it gets the job done. I'm glad Ruger finally addressed the accuracy issues, because that was long overdue. It's never going to out compete the AR-15, but nothing else chambered in 5.56 will either. The Mini-14 is its own rifle. If you have a use for it, there's nothing wrong with adding it to your safe.
The fact that you have a FoxHound patch on your wall makes you such a badass.
First of all..... "GREAT VIDEO!"
I'm a retired member of "law enforcement." The Ruger Mini - 14 is a firearm that I've used and have had a lot of training with. I always enjoyed my interactions with it. Now (just recently), I've been discussing the newer version of it with my 33 year old son, who, like me, is a gun enthusiast. The conversation is simply about purchasing one to add to my collection. And, of course, to enjoy at the range. Your video is "saturated" with pertinent information regarding this weapon..... "Loved it!"...... thank you.
Got a 583-series stainless Ranch.
Added a Samson Hannibal rail (the single best upgrade you can do to a Mini,) a green dot reflex, and an Accu-Strut. It fires softly, accurately, reliably, and it's fun as hell. Built like a tank, too. Makes a great plinker/small game hunter/scout rifle.
Minis also have excellent triggers right out of the box.
Is it as modular and customizable as an AR? No. Is it a good rifle regardless? Yes. Most people who trash the Mini simply do so off repeating internet "truths" or because it's not an AR.
@@timberlandone4054 I think the thing that gets me is the complete denial of preference.
Preferring a solid wooden stock, a rifle without a pistol grip, or a fully stainless Garand-style side-charging action are most definitely things - but many will just shrug them off as if they don't matter because "AR better" and obviously you're only allowed to like the thing that does the job passably well for the least amount of money.
I guess if all we are allowed to care about is efficiency per dollar that means we're all doomed to drive used Corollas and eat nothing but canned tuna fish on wheat.
For what it's worth, I also own 4 ARs. They're all good rifles too. I still like the Mini.
Can you compare the Hannibal to Ultimak? I have an Ultimak but don't know if it's worth shelling out more cash. I imagine the Hannibal gets just as scorching hot.
@@NancyAllensToiletSeat I can't, never handled one with an Ultimak. They look really similar, minus the holes in the side and the optic cuts in the Hannibal.
Add a Hellfire (R) trigger and have even more fun. The Hellfire was really designed for that gun!
@@jedpeeler4199 Eh, not my style. To each their own, but I'll pass on that gimmick. No need or want for it.
"The brotherhood of steel vs the cyber mormons"
We need James to publish his Wattpad writing
This is an awesome video. I was surprised to learn how well the rifle has performed at Thunder Ranch. It’s cool to think of this rifle like a song performed by a singer other than the original performer who actually performed it better than the original performer. Great video!
The Jimi Hendrix with "Along the Watchtower" or Johnny Cash with "Hurt" effect.
What? It does absolutely nothing better than any decent AR will for less $.
@@johnmoore8067Any decent modern AR at watered-down modern AR prices! Mini was the big daddy to the AR before the general public even knew what ARs were outside of Vietnam. Mini was the 2A to the government AR and now people want to act like ARs were Minis when they weren't even on the market for civilian sale. 2A is way more Mini than ANY government AR will ever be
@@johnmoore8067the newer minis are built like a tank
@@luislongoria6621 Bill Ruger hated 2A. STFU.
Im a Mini fan. I have a 188 S/N Ranch Rifle. I put a harmonic stabilizer on it. Have a Monstrum 3x9 optic. Im 1.5 to 2 inch groups at 100 all day long. It shoots great, very little recoil. And .223 is cheap enough....
Your the first person I have seen mention harmonic stabilizers in the youtube comments. Which one are you using?
Side note, you can but an awesome heavy 20” barrel for the Mini and an adjustable gas block so you don’t have to launch your brass into the next county. The adjustable gas block also also prevents that ejection dent.
Great video. Thumb up on the Mini 14. Even though I had an Uncle Sam issued Colt CAR 15 back in the day, the personal tactical rifle that I purchased under the LE buying program was a Mini GB Model.
love my mini-30. will never get rid of it. foregoes the need for an ar-15 and an ak47. only problem with it is that its perhaps a little on the heavy side. other then that, its amazing. rugged, quality made, will last 100 years.
Put a Hogue stock on it. You pick up a little more length of pull and for what ever reason it feels much lighter. You be the judge. It will improve the grip 100%. I have the mini 30. Iron sight and a 10 dollar sling from Tech Sights. Plain and simple.
@@williamryan9195 hogue stock? hmm never heard of it. i will check it out. thanks
@@jp92382 I got the O.D. Green color.They come in a few different colors.
@@williamryan9195 OD Green would be cool. very different.
@@jp92382 If you do an image search for the mini 14 you may find one with the O.D. stock. Mine is 5803 with blued barrel. It does look nice. Nice clean lines with no mods.
I love the mini 14.
They have an A-Team style mini at one of my locals, that I’ve been eyeballing for a while.
They want $1400 for it, and I am justifying buying it 😅
It would cost more to buy one, as well as a folding stock, and to have the work done.
That rifle would definitely get some attention at the range too lol
You're overthinking it.
Just buy it.
If it's an original run from back in the 80s hop on it they are only going up in value. Hope you said screw it and picked her up cause you wouldn't be disappointed.
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, man I love my Mini 14!!!
Thanks , I've been looking for a while . You cut thru the crap and love ole Clint ! M. B.
Great video. Rather than an alternative to the AR or other platforms, I view the Mini-14 as a capable addition to the tool chest. I've owned and shot Mini's for 2 decades and have always appreciated them as handy and capable long guns. I think the accuracy deficit of the Mini compared to an AR-15 is more of an oft-repeated talking point than a serious practical disadvantage. No doubt the AR is intrinsically likely to shoot smaller groups under controlled conditions, but either can engage "minute of pie plate" targets effectively at extended ranges detectable to the naked eye. And although entirely illogical, the Mini doesn't trigger panic attacks by antis the way EBR's do. The unaltered Mini is barren of evil features, making it an easier sell in certain ban states. There is not much in the way of useful accessories such as with the AR, and reliability with anything other than pricey factory magazines may be an issue, but there are still a lot of fans out there, including me.
Yep... I look at it as a 5.56 AK. But my Tactical (Model 5888) is now exceeding expectations : )
Yeah when New York passed the safe act mini 14 sales went through the roof.
Firearm design selection based on sheeple fears is never a good choice.
@@Kyle-sr6jm There is some sort of thinly veiled insult in that comment, so please elaborate.
@@kentuckybowl-o-sticks 5.56 NATO AKs are more accurate and reliable than a Mini.
Cmon James, we all know the mini 14 is one of the rifles ever made
I’ve always wanted one. Cool looking firearm. I’m a fan of having as many firearms as possible with round compatibility…just wish mags were compatible w/ the ar
I would've left it at "I'm a fan of having as many firearms as possible"
I've never seen an interview with Clint before, but I'm calling it now. That guy's a stud.
Mine starts582 Ranch shoots 222 556 new ejected issues sent back n/c fixed,put red dot on took cap off water bottle, bottle still standing get recreational sporting fun ,I leave magazine in all the time makes little easier, would be nice conversion kit for quick mag change
I love the Mini series. They scratch the M1a itch in a smaller and lighter package.
The Ranch Rifle concept is solid, and for a “woods gun”, the slimmer profile (and no pistol grip) makes sense (won’t get hung up on vegetation while slung over the shoulder).
I had a Mini 30 for a while back in the day but finding good magazines with a capacity over 10 rounds was a crap shoot at best.
If the Mini 14 could take STANAG or PMags, theyd sell a metric fuckton more rifles (especially in more restrictive locations).
I like mine . About 8 years old now, not one malfunction ever. 680 bucks new at the gun show. Fast handling, a real work gun. Not for posers.
if they were still around that price i’d probably have one
He says about a gun typically people buy to get their A Team posing in...
I have always been under the impression that mini 30 came first. Also I remember watching the A-Team and ever since I had wanted a mini 14. Took me years to get one. So when I saw one in my favorite gun store and it was in 300blk. I scooped it up. I have sensed put it in the stock like on the A-Team had there's.
Definitely not. The first Mini-14 was actually .222 and then .223.
This was a perfect sum up of the Mini-14. Also your description of the AR DI system was hilarious 😂
You bamboozled us, James!!! That wasn't cornstarch you used in that Mini-14 test. It was GOLD BOND Medicated Body Powder! Maybe something you had lying around to powder your under bag before you take Grinder selfies. Still love the channel, regardless. You Mo!
The mini 14 was one of the first firearms I ever shot when I was a kid. My grandfathers. I remember hiting a bullseye from about 25-30 yards on one of my very first shots, so it cant be that bad! 😆 Wish I inherited it though.. Not sure what happened to all of his firearms after he passed. I think my uncle has most of them, who I dont see much.
A whole 30 yards lol.
@@Enjoyer.762 I was like 10-11 years old man lol..
Time to start hanging out with your uncle again.
Great video, great rifle. I'm on my second Mini; the first I foolishly traded away. Never want to be without one. It easily digests ammo that makes my ARs choke. Roger on the magazine issue. Long live the Mini!
Gives you a chance/excuse to buy a new one!
What kind of low quality AR's you running?
I can personally attest to the magazine issue. The only time my mini had any malfunction was with a third party magazine. All the rest of my mags are Ruger brand, and function flawlessly. That's the only major downside I can think of. It's not a perfect rifle, but I love it for what it is. It may not be a tack driver, but as long as it's "minute of bad guy" it's good enough for any practical application.
I had a mini-14 when I was a kid and thought it was a piece of trash, jammed every couple rounds. A decade later I discovered that we only had AR mags for it, and decided to buy a couple authentic ruger mags. After that the gun never had a problem again
I hate people who trash the Mini because it's not a .5 MOA rifle out of the box. That's not what it's meant for.
@@xAeschylusx You can't fit AR mags in the Mini 14. You're fake news.
@@stevem4783 No they trash it because it's a shitty 4 to 6 moa rifle that's less accurate than a well made AK.
@@Enjoyer.762 Just more proof for everyone you have no idea what the hell you're talking about. Thank you.
They are now way over priced and not as good or accurate as a budget AR. The AR platform is just so modular and better. Tons of spare parts and options and so damn easy to strip and clean. Mr Stoner hit a home run with his design
I put a scout rail on my mini with a fixed 2.5 9 inch eye relief forward mounted Leupold. Keeps the breach clear and much better operation. It’s a rapid fire laser. The extractor cracked after 1000s of rounds and that was a problem. Replaced that and it runs like new.
I wonder if we'll ever get a variant with a STANAG compatible magwell. Can't help but think that if they could pull that off well, they'd sell significantly more Minis.
Obsolete, maybe. But I can't deny that the Mini-14 has this charm to it. Sure, AR-15 pattern rifles are more popular, but the Mini-14's profile just looks great IMHO.
It's hard for a retro design gun to be obsolete, it wasn't up to date to start with
Good one James. I picked up my SS Ranch after disappointment with a Springfield Saint AR. Degassed it a bit with ports from Accuracy Systems, and recently sent the trigger group to A.S. for their Service Grade mod. $100 and a week later it came back with a crisp 4-pound trigger in place of the 6-pound creepy one it left with. Next up will be an adjustable gas block that will allow fine tuning and the option to used it as a straight-pull so I don’t have to scratch in the dirt for my brass. Absolutely dead-reliable and I can walk around my local WMA with a 5-round flush mag without any dog-walkers calling out SWAT. Runs wet or dry, and as Clint said, I feel I can leave it lay for a week, a year, or a decade, then pick it up and bang away. Thanks for all the good content.
"Absolutely dead-reliable and I can walk around my local WMA with a 5-round flush mag without any dog-walkers calling out SWAT."
So let me get this straight: You were disappointed in your Saint (which is fair, they're not the greatest) so you spent more money on a Mini which is more expensive already, then paid shipping and services to upgrade the trigger AND the gas system?