Do I buy a Mini-14 Target and Scope ???

[snuffy789]

I am considering the Ruger Mini-14 Target with synthetic stock and trying to decide on which scope to buy and install. I am sure that I will shoot it at the range for fun but mainly plan to hunt coyotes with it in South Texas. We do not get too many "second shots" in the brush county but it should be fun having that second shot handy when it is needed.

Most shots will be inside 200 yards although I killed 2 this year at 300 and 325yards with my Ruger 270.

Is the target allot more accurate than the standard and the way to go?

I have 2 Leupold VX-3, 4.5x14x40 with the CDS and love them.

However, I am wondering if I am really going to have time to shoot a coyote with a range finder, adjust the knob, and finally shoot.

Questions: (1) what size scope would you recommend? 4x12, 4.5x14, etc.
(2) Should I spend the money on a VX-3 with CDS or just buy a quality scope with a BDC type reticle and learn to use it?

I have read so much confusing opinions about BDS type reticles and how to use them. Do they really work?

All suggestions are appreciated!!!

 

[dprice3844444]

nc star 3x9x42 bdc included from amazon.com 200 yards basically point blank range no holdover

 

[pikid89]

the power range is unimportant unless you plan on going out past 400 yards

your best bet, especially on a Mini-14 is to get a higher quality scope with a smaller front objective...the mini has a drop in it stock designed for using the iron sights...so with a smaller front lens, you can mount the scope as low as possible

don't let people tell you that a bigger front lens means better sight view...a 62mm lens on a simmons or tasco can't touch the optical clarity of something like a leica or a swarovski 23mm front lens

size is less important than quality glass and toughness, which is another thing a mini 14 scope should have

As far a BDC's are concerned, unless you are getting a lens and reticle custom ground that accounts for your barrel length, bullet weight, and powder type, a mass production BDC is at best an Average of bullets and velocities (like an ACOG BDC...$$$) and at worst, a WAG (wild a$$ guess), which I guarantee is what you will find in a NC Star BDC scope

theres is no reason to drop 2 weeks paycheck on a scope, but there are plenty of reason not to buy a junk scope that the mini14 will beat apart...when it comes to optics..."buy once, cry once"...get a quality scope along the lines of a Bushnell Elite 3200, Leupold Rifleman/VX-I/II, any new production Redfield

If your okay with a fixed power, find a recently discontinued Bushnell Elite 3200 10x mil-dot scope and learn how to use the mils to adjust for range...they can be found for under $150

 

[snuffy789]

Thanks !

 

[snuffy789]

So a quality 3x9x40 or maybe 4x12x40 is plenty big and forget about the BDC. A quality rifle sighted in a 200 yards will certainly kill a coyote at 300 yards with a little practice at the range. I agree with the good glass comment as I only only Zeiss and Leupold currently.
Thanks!

 

[jimmyraythomason]

For hunting I use Leupold VX-1 and VX-2s,Nikon Buckmaster and Prostaffs also Weaver Buck Commander. I prefer a power range from 3x to 12x with no smaller than 32mm objective lens and no larger than a 44mm oj lens. I found that a 32mm obj was a near perfect fit for my Mini-14 and Mini-30s.

 

[snuffy789]

Thanks!

 

[briantf]

>>>
I found that a 32mm obj was a near perfect fit for my Mini-14 and Mini-30s.
>>>

I agree.

Regards,
Brian in CA

 

[TwoEyedJack]

My experience with a couple of examples of the mini 14 have not been particularly good. They are certainly reliable and I love the rotating bold action. I have had 4 AR15s and each of them has been far more accurate than any Mini14 I have experienced. These are obviously not statically significant samples, however I believe that this squares with what most shooters experience. If I wanted an accurate Mini14, I would buy one and immediately send it to a gunsmith for a quality replacement barrel, bedding, and trigger job.

As far as scopes go, I got one of the new Redfield 3-9X40 Revolution. Built in America and lifetime warranty. Works very well on my .270.

 

[snuffy789]

Thanks - the Mini Target with Hogue stock has a 22" heavy barrel, better trigger and it supposed to shoot 1" MOA at 100 yards. I know the "black guns" are more accurate but I just have not warmed up to them yet. I am still thinking of $800 for Ruger Target versus $1000 for the Rock River. You help is appreciated.

 

[BrocLuno]

Have fun with your Ruger. I'd get a Nikon 223 BDC if it were me

 

[LoonWulf]

Im using a nikon .223 1-4x20 on my 581 standard mini with low leupold rings. The Hogue stock has a bit of drop at the heel. A scope that uses factory ruger rings will pull your head up a bit, but not so much as to be a real problem. I would like to get one of those target minis i think they look cool