That implies it’s a primer problem. Why would 7.62x39 U.S. ammo work and Russian not work. I don’t believe it has anything to do with steel v brass cases.Since the 762x32 feeds so well in everything I one, and fires, I would suspect the mini 30 is the problem. Maybe the hammer spring isn’t up to par?
From what I’ve read, the problem is the slightly recessed hard primers, and the solution is an aftermarket slightly longer firing pin.
Some Mini-30’s work fine with Russian steel, but the majority seem to need the longer pin.
This was discussed on www.Perfectunion.com which has a top rated Mini-14/30 forum.
Isn’t that the same thing the guy in the video was doing?Ruger factory spec for the Mini30 is 32 thousandths pin protruation. Ak and sks are 55 thousandths. The standard steel cased ammo primers sit deeper. There are aftermarket pins for the Mini series (14 and 30 use the same pin) however many people have encountered soft ones that bend or mushroom with more than 45 thousandths protrusion. Carefully turn down the front shoulder and stone the rear hook of a factory pin to 45 to 50 thousandths will result in near 100% reliablity.
Sorry didn't watch the video before adding my comment. I have done this repair myself and it does work. Just ran the video and yes, that is exactly right.Isn’t that the same thing the guy in the video was doing?
That implies it’s a primer problem. Why would 7.62x39 U.S. ammo work and Russian not work. I don’t believe it has anything to do with steel v brass cases.
I did find this:
Why isn’t Ruger adding longer firing pins to their 30s?
The most common problem is a machining burr in the bolt face around the firing pin hole. It limits pin protrusion in regard to the primer. Grab a small drill bit, turn it a few times around the firing pin hole and the problem is solved.Does Ruger’s Mini-30’s problem with Russian steel case ammo [...]
get an aftermarket firing pin. If it's way too long you can always shorten it incrementally until everything works as intended.
Never been an issue with the Mini-14. This is only an issue with the Mini-30 and is specific to the 762x39 cartridge. About the only challenge I've heard or seen with steel 223 in a Mini-14 is with extractors and ripping case rims.My mini14 functioned flawlessly with steel cased ammo. Idk. Maybe I got lucky.