180 Series Mini 14

[sebtool]

I have a 180 series mini 14, and I'd like to mount a scope on it - the eyes aren't quite as sharp as they used to be! All the scope mounts I've seen were for a 181 and up series. It would be nice to have a side mount so the iron sights are still useable, but we'll see what I run into. I don't want to get carried away modifying the rifle much,as it has quite a bit of sentimental value for me.
1 thing I've considered, is making a scout type LER mount. I'm a 'formerly' self employed machinist (gotta love this economy) still got the tools and toys, stock, etc., just not much in the way of funds.... Has anyone done anything like this? Or have any links to info on this type of mount? I'm thinking of a 'barrel block/clamp' type mount out of aluminum. But it would probably mean finding a different stock and handguard to experiment with, as I don't want to modify the originals. Any other ideas????
IF I do come up with something along these lines I'd probably be willing to produce a few, if the design and cost was reasonable. I can't see charging a freakin' fortune,(might have something to do with the 'formerly' part!) but if there's anyone interested, we'll see what we can do.
Any help or info is appreciated!!!
Thx

 

[JWF III]

The scout mount does work. I have one from Accuracy Systems, Inc. (check their wabsight out for a lot of Mini accessories.) I believe I got my mount for $65, but that was quite a few years ago. But a machinist with the proper tools, I'm sure could make one cheaper.

I do have a mount for my 180 series that screwed to the reciever. It didn't matter what kind of Lock-Tite I used, it would be loose within a couple of mags. The scout mount worked well on it. But I've since put it on a 186 series that's been dressed up a bit.

Wyman

www.ruger-mini-14-firearms.com/mini_14_30_accessories.php

About 3/4's of the way down the page. They also have a handgaurd with a full rail. It's just above the scout mount. I have no experience with that product.

 

[sebtool]

Good info from both - thanks! I do like the scout scope mount ASI has - might have to look into that 1.

1 question - are the screws holding the side mount just a regular flat head (probably stainless steel, anyway) stove bolt? That's what they appear to be in 'TheHatedOnes' pics.(BTW - I never met you, but I hate you already-just kidding- that's 1 NICE Mini!) I'd have thought that they would have used a flat head cap screw(hex, not slotted) with a plastic retaining anti vibration patch or rod on the threads. That might be something to try, if you liked the mount otherwise. Unless it's an oddball thread(and we all know that gunsmiths never use them!) you can get them from McMaster Carr pretty easy. The patch, or in some cases, an inserted rod(which I like better) actually forms a mechanical lock, which seems to hold up better over time, at least on machinery.

Thanks for the input. ASI has got some good stuff on their site. Might have to sell a kid or 2....

 

[wayne in boca]

A series 180 that I gave my son has an S&K scope mount that replaced the rear sight,always held zero.

 

[joehorner]

180 scope mount

There is a guy on Perfect Union Forum that has a screen name of Mecca. He has a 181 scope mount that bolts in to the rear sight. I bought one from him to use on my neighbors 180 series. We did a little filing on 3 sides to get it to fit. Once we fit it to his mini we sent it back to Marty (thats his real name) to take measurements then put it into production for a 180 series mini. He is going to reanodize the mount we filed down then send it back to us. It is a pretty ingenius mounting system. You ought to check it out. Below is the link.

http://www.perfectunion.com/vb/showthread.php?t=70412

You should sign up to this forum. It is loaded with many good ideas on the Mini 14 Joe

 

[sebtool]

Good info Joe. That's an interesting looking mount -thanks!!

 

[husker]

I like that rail to joe. Since were talking mini 180s. I have a 180 ? Can you buy a better, more accurate barrel? For the 180. My barrel dont deserve a scope. but i have one for it. & i cant keep the rings that came with it tight either. its all new a year ago. Locktite dosent work. But does take longer to get loose.

 

[JWF III]

Can you buy a better, more accurate barrel? For the 180. My barrel dont deserve a scope.

Check that Accuraacy Systems link I posted above. They've been doing amazing things with Minis.

Wyman

 

[kc8ici]

This is the URL for scope mounts for the 180 series mini 14
http://www.gunaccessories.com/militaryscopemounts/Ruger/index.asp

 

[Txhillbilly]

Leupold used to make a one piece base for the 180 series. I had one installed on mine years ago,I don't know if they still offer it.You might check with them.

 

[sebtool]

Hey Tex,
That's a pretty decent mount. did you have to drill and tap the receiver to mount it? Ha it been stable?
Thx

 

[sebtool]

Joe,
I was checking out the perfectunion thread you listed. Did you ever get things resolved? I'm actually a self emplyed machinist, and was thinking about making my own, but would like to retain the rear sight for obvious reasons.
You have his address - have you tried mailing a letter?
Thx

 

[Txhillbilly]

Sebtool,Yes the Leupold mount requires drilling and tapping the receiver. It is a very stable mount. I have put several thousand rounds out of this gun over the years,and went through a couple different scopes on this mount. It uses standard Leupold rings.