Mini 14 Success

[mokin]

I finally got around to buying a used Mini-14 a couple years back. Not long before things got stupid. A good choice. I've thought about working on the trigger but every time I take it out, I realize it doesn't seem so bad. I figure I'll probably do it sometime when I don't have another project lined up.

 

[Milkmaster]

I fixed my trigger, added an adjustable gas block and a better sights Such a nice rifle to shoot. It's my iron sights rifle when I don't want or need to use optics.


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[Milkmaster]

I tried the Samson folding stock, but soon sold it afterwards. Just didn't do anything for me except make the whole rifle less handy.

 

[JDGray]

@JDGray How is the blast on those rifles. They look sweet! That top one looks real handy.

Same rifle, different stocks I cut it at 13”, same as the AC556F, blast not bad at all.

 

[mrcabinet]

I've considered the adjustable gas block several times but, in the end, have stuck with the smallest bushing from the set. What is that flash hider? It looks nicer than the John Masen that I've had on mine from almost day one.

 

[Milkmaster]

It's called a Mo-reaper if I remember right. I bought it for the sight picture. Helps my old eyes.

 

[rbernie]

I just want a traditional Mini14 stock with the proper grip / drop for offhand shooting with irons and a LOP that's suitable for adult humans. I can live with everything else.

 

[mshootnit]

I suppose if the AK or AR didn't exist I would get a mini. But a guy can only have so much metal hanging around.
some good pics and info here

 

[mshootnit]

I like the way the mini looks. Like a shrunk down M14, which I also like. Never saw the point in owning one though. As much as I like gunsmith projects, they just cost too darned much. I am not an AR15 fan, but you can get a nice one that has a great trigger, shoots well, and costs less than a mini. That kind of takes away the point of having a mini unless it's a "must have" for you.

This thread showed me that with some money, time, and a little effort, you can fix a mini to be pretty good. There is still the accuracy issue, but I hear the new ones are better than the original ones in that regard. So, if I EVER run across a used one for a decent price, I just might pick it up. I won't hold my breath of course......

I think one in 6.8 would be cool. I already have a bison e.r shaw AR in 6.8 tho that a mini could never touch for accuracy, but a 6.8 mini would still be cool

 

[mshootnit]

I have a 583 series Mini-14, and I enjoy everything about it except for the trigger. I did change to a smaller gas bushing, and evened up and set exact torque specs on the gas block, things Ruger should have done.

I've watched the Gun Doc video, pretty sure I can follow it, just have to get the nerve up to do it. lol

Sad, the trigger is the worst of any gun I've owned, and that included a BLR, an SKS, and an M-1 Carbine. For the prices Ruger charges, that trigger is an insult.

OP: Glad you were able to tame yours!

Well especially since there were like 6 million Garand rifles produced much faster and cheaper with perfect triggers.

 

[HowieG]

I think one in 6.8 would be cool. I already have a bison e.r shaw AR in 6.8 tho that a mini could never touch for accuracy, but a 6.8 mini would still be cool

Or a 7.62x39. Or a Black Out. Frankly, I would like to own a M1A, but the same thing applies, way too expensive for a gun that probably won't shoot without work.

 

[mrcabinet]

Since I got the trigger where I like it now, I've been thinking about gussying up the stock. I've come close to stripping and refinishing it darker several times but the reality that it's a birch stock, so it will never be as nice as I'd want it to be.

Friday night I scored a Boyd's Heritage walnut stock at 1/2 off. Should be here Tuesday ......

 

[rbernie]

Friday night I scored a Boyd's Heritage walnut stock at 1/2 off.

Lemme know if the comb is too high for the iron sights, please. I've been looking at those, but wasn't willing to roll the dice in case the comb/butt was not iron sight / offhand friendly.

 

[mrcabinet]

I run a scope on mine, but I should be able to get an eye down the irons for you.

 

[Ignition Override]

You guys who get 'tight' groups with your Mini 14s at 50 yards or further:

Iron sights or with some scope?

A friend today had a nib M1A-1 (civilian M-14) and at 40 yards, using iron sights, I Could Not get anything except a vertical 'stripe group' of about 6". This was on a benchrest with the support hand firmly grasping the end of the buttstock.
Really embarrassing.

 

[mshootnit]

Or a 7.62x39. Or a Black Out. Frankly, I would like to own a M1A, but the same thing applies, way too expensive for a gun that probably won't shoot without work.

I have the M1A. It needs no work to be a good shooter.

 

[HowieG]

I have the M1A. It needs no work to be a good shooter.

Lucky you. National Match?

 

[mshootnit]

Not this one. I have had three. The NM would hold 1.5" at 200 yds with a scope.
The other two will hold groups better than you can with an aperture sight.
A lot bigger than the mini.

 

[mrcabinet]

Just a quick follow up. Here's my Mini with the Boyd's Heritage walnut stock. Haven't shot it with this stock yet but boy does it fit nice.

 

[jyo]

Actually, my 580 series stainless Mini 14 came thou with a surprising decent trigger! Good shooter too!