Mini 30 / Mini 30 Tactical Interchange.

[Heddrix]

I am currently in the market for a brand new Ruger Mini 30 with synthetic stock and matte stainless steel finish. I would actually prefer to purchase the new tactical version which is an all black model. However I currently live in CA where flash suppressors (tactical mini 30 stock) are not allowed.

My question is (when I move to MI which is a much freer state concerning gun control) , will I be able to order and exchange the barrel and action of my mini 30 for the tactical versions? Will I be able to modify the firearm to hold a larger clip and or shorter tactical barrel and action?
Also, does someone have a recommendation for an under-barrel stabilization rod? Or is the newer model improved to the point where one is not necessary? I want this gun to keep roughly 1" to 2" patterns at 100 yards. (Have read all accuracy debate).

Please let me know if there is a thread that applies specifically to the interchangeability already.

 

[40nascar]

The new 581 mini thirty is a good gun, other than looks I don't see the practicality to switch things out if you move. You can call ruger to see if they will do the barrel conversion, but I think it will cost you at least 1/2 the price of a new rifle to do that! another thing to consider: Michigan is an area of the country with alot of percipitation and humidity, a good place for a stainless steel rifle!

 

[NG VI]

Instead of completely swapping the barrel and action (the entire rifle minus the stock in other words) why don't you try having the rifle refinished with some kind of blackening? I think some companies will even Melonite and then blacken a gun, that's usually used for pistols but I don't see why it couldn't be done for the larger steel parts of a Mini-30, like the barrel and receiver.

And if you wanted to add a muzzle brake (prolly not too helpful on a 7.62x39) or a flash supressor later you could send the barrel out to be threaded or find a local shop that can do it for you.

 

[MiniZ]

I would venture a guess that it would be cost prohibitive to change out the barrel and/or action. Before you move to a free state, sell your CA compliant version and buy the Tatical when you get out. Or, keep it and simply have the barrel threaded for a flash suppressor.

 

[Heddrix]

Thank you all for your helpful suggestions and advice.

The comment about MI being very humid is a very good point! It also makes me feel better about the "metal flash scare" that can occur when hunting with a shiny weapon.

Also if I truly want to change the aesthetic of the gun later on, a blackening procedure is certainly a viable option.

If I find this weapon to be as functional and versatile as I hope, I will probably be investing in one more which will then be the tactical version. Personally I prefer to stick to one firearm for all around use. Consistency leads to better accuracy and overall ease of use. Perhaps someday in the future I will invest in a M1A Scout as my long range rifle. Does anyone have any thoughts on the M1A Scout as compared to the Mini 30? (Range issues and cost aside.)

I will also say that I am very happy to be moving to a free state in which firearms are viewed as tools and nothing more. Also excited to make a fresh batch of jerky and venison stew.

 

[NG VI]

Well I've never personally handled either one, but the M1A will be a lot louder and will give you a decent bit more feedback, depending on how mild the .308 you are shooting is.

Heavier too.

 

[Marlin 45 carbine]

the Mini30 is a good 'bush' or eastern woods carbine that will bring home the bacon. you may want to check on 150gr bullet loads though. the 123gr sp is a bit light for large deer over say around 100yds IMO.
I load my own 150gr Speer sp fb for my M30.

sure the M1a is gonna have another 100 or so yds practical effective range over the X39 gun.

no mods are neccesarry to use hi-cap mags in the M30. I'll advise to use either 10rd, 15rd (come in s/s) or the biggest 20rd. lots of problems with the 30rd it seems.

'Perfect Union' forum (mods is this allowed if not delete OK) has a dedicated Mini page you should check on/join.