Mini 30 questions

[olywa]

I have an opportunity to pick up a new model Ruger Mini 30 for a song but I have some reservations because I can't seem to get consistent information about this rifle. Specifically:

-Can anyone tell me definitively what the bore diameter is on the new models?

-Will a straight objective scope mounted on Ruger Low rings be subject to constant dinging by ejected cases?

-Does the new model have the same problems as the older model insofar as the accuracy going in the toilet when the barrel heats up?

Not interested in alternative platforms for the 7.62x39 here, I just want to know whether anyone with some experience with the latest model Mini 30 can answer the questions above so I can make an informed decision as to whether or not I should consider this deal. Thanks in advance for any input on this.

 

[RecoilRob]

Well, they have a .308 bore.

Can't help you with the ejection question as the only one I have fired used the irons.

The 'accuracy going into the toilet' is such a subjective term. They aren't really stellar to begin with and getting one hot probably doesn't help them at all. But, the one I shot hit pie plates regularly @ 100yds offhand all afternoon....which is about as good as I'd expect them to do.

 

[tinroad37e]

I have a newer model mini-30 that will shoot 2 inches at 100 yards using quality ammo. I have never had a single problem with mine after thousands of rounds. They're extremely reliable. Mine had the wood stock on it, which was too short for me. I replaced it with a hogue stock and love it.

 

[tinroad37e]

I have a newer model mini-30 that will shoot 2 inches at 100 yards using quality ammo. I have never had a single problem with mine after thousands of rounds. They're extremely reliable. Mine had the wood stock on it, which was too short for me. I replaced it with a hogue stock and love it.

 

[tinroad37e]

I have a newer model mini-30 that will shoot 2 inches at 100 yards using quality ammo. I have never had a single problem with mine after thousands of rounds. They're extremely reliable. Mine had the wood stock on it, which was too short for me. I replaced it with a hogue stock and love it. I am currently saving money to purchase the new mini in 6.8 SPC.

 

[Snapping Twig]

FWIW, the new series Mini 30 has a .310 bore, NOT a .308.

As to cases hitting the scope - won't happen. The ranch rifles use a different extractor system and the cases go straight out sideways, no scope dinging.

Accuracy is improved. Still not a MOA rifle, but damn good none the less.

I have an old style blued version (189 series of 1989) and mine DOES have a .308 bore, but that's OK, I reload for it and after I properly torqued the gas block, mine is @ 3" at 100 yards.

Rifling is 1 in 10.

 

[RecoilRob]

Well HUH!! After doing some Internet searching...it does seem that Ruger has changed the barrel to .310. Most say it happened around 10 years ago (shows how up to date I am!) so I stand corrected on my previous post.