Differences in mini-14 series?

[1KPerDay]

185, 186... what if any are the differences?

and in the different series of ranch rifles? I know the 'new' models of recent manufacture are significantly different from before... any differences among the old ones?

 

[glockman19]

Newer mini's, (ones produced after Ruger re-tooled the production line), have heavier barrels and tighter tolerances. they shoot more accurately than the older ones. Newer mini-14's begin with serial #580 and mini-30's with #581.

 

[1KPerDay]

That's it?

 

[lee n. field]

Some differences with the original 180 series vs. newer ones, as well. Sorry, don't recall the details.

 

[AZ Jeff]

There are THREE different "vintages" of the Mini-14 series:

"180" series--so named for the serial number prefix. Uses early style sling swivels, early style external bolt hold-open system, and a roller on the bolt cam track lug
"181" series--again named for serial number prefixes starting with 181 and on. Uses later style sling swivels, and internal bolt hold-open system, and eliminated the roller on the bolt lug.
"Improved" series--introduced in 2007 (?), and features a new style front sight with protective ears, and most of the same features as the 181 series..

Inside the 181 series, there are FIVE different product versions:
1. "Mini-14"--chambered in 5.56x45, semi-auto only, "bump-type" ejector, used adjustable rear sight that could be moved with a punch or bullet point.
2. "Mini-30"--same as Mini-14, but chambered in 7.62x39
3. "Ranch Rifle"--same as Mini-14, but featured integral scope mounts/rings. Also used Williams flip-up iron sight in rear in place of standard rear sight. Uses fixed type ejector, and buffer on recoil spring guide. Chambered for 5.56x45.
4. "GB" series---same as Mini-14, but with front sight/bayonet lug located midway back on barrel. Also featured flash suppressor screwed to front of barrel.
5. "AC-556" series--same as Mini-14, but SELECTIVE FIRE. Came in short barreled version as well as full length versions

 

[deth502]

well, this look like a good a place as any yo ask my question....

i have a gb rifle and was wondering how the fh was attached. ive tried turning it by hand, but didnt want to use tools in case i was doing it wrong.

so it threads off?? rh threads???

so this would be a "181 series" right??

when were these made??

 

[AZ Jeff]

GB series were made from the early 1980's on, and are all "181 series" (although your SN might start with a 3 digit number higher that 181).

I "THINK" the flash hider is threaded on, but Lord knows how tight it may have been attached. Unless you have REAL good reason to want it removed, I would leave it be, as you may need a barrel vise to clamp it adequately to remove it.