I have a Mini-14 GB surplussed from the Mississippi State Troopers. It is a thin-barrel version and is an accurate rifle. I wouldn't take it squirrel hunting, but it is as accurate as my Russian or Chinese SKS's. I take it out to the farm and never feel under-gunned. It isn't set up for a scope mount like standard Mini's, but don't want a scope on it anyway.
I voted the 14 because you can get better magazines for the 14 in my experience and because I do like the SKS in 30. I'm in good shape when it comes to semi autos and have owned AR's in my life (Bushmaster, Stag, and RR). Everyone claims the AR is superior, and I won't argue with that. I have nothing really wrong with going full tactical on the farm, but for me, the clean lines and simple features of the Mini are better. Shooting rabid racoons or dogs, the Mini does the job just fine. I suppose I could wander about with my NDM-86 with optics and bayonet mounted or step up the power with my M14a, but the Mini is what I end up taking every time I go out.
Others here don't like it, and the AR has become king of all things, but for me, the Mini works for what I want it to do.