I've about convinced myself I want a semi auto carbine.

[Caliper_Mi]

Besides, I can get both the Mini 14 and the Mini 30 for about the same price as an AR.

If you can get a Mini that low, I'd be all over it. Here the used Mini 14/30's go for $500-600 which is darn close to a basic (new) AR.

 

[LexRex]

I will throw in another vote for the newer model Mini 14's. I bought one in February and I'm very happy with reliability and accuracy out of the box. I've been shooting the hotter M193 along with some Fed Am eagles and over 1000 rounds with no stoppage or problems. They can be had for around $600-$650 in my area and can be had with the "tactical" stocks, etc.

 

[Ignition Override]

The only slight drawback of my ('03) Mini 30 is that now and then you have a 'ftf' (only the first strike) with newer Russian ammo.

These were designed to use with highly over-priced US ammo, having softer primers.

As for accuracy, the targets are all solid (no paper) at 80-100', and I have no need to analyze the hot barrel.
The bricks and jugs blow up.

 

[Al LaVodka]

I suppose I'd buy a NEW Mini-14 over a used ANYTHING, especially an M-1 carbine. Not over a basic AR, but that's a personal preference. Remember also that Ruger factory High-Cap mags are relatively expensive...
Al

 

[DAdams]

Check out the prices on CDNN, they had some great deals on Mini 14s recently. The market is glutted with them right now and prices have come down substantially over the last 18 months.

My LGS had new ones with the plastic stocks both in the AR look with rails up the wazoo and standard config.

Mags are a bit pricey but 6 is probably adequate anyway and it comes with two these days?







New version (NRA Ed) with a Hogue stock. Mag in the rifle, one on the stock for grab and go.