Which Lightweight Carbine?

[possum]

i would say the mini 14 because i love them and have always wanted one and plan to get one in the future. they are just so much fun, to plink with. i shoot my buddies more than i shoot my ar! if you look hard you might can find a good deal, i found one around here in great condition for $350 plus tax and one at cabela's in kansas city for $325, and i would have bought it but there were little traces of rust, and though it could be removed without a problem, i couldn't bring myself to do it!

 

[No_Brakes23]

If you are dead set on .223, then get the Kel-Tec, since it takes AR mags.

If you want 7.62x39, the Saiga wins hands down. It is a very accurate "AK" and if you decide you don't want a sporterized rifle, you can get a Tromix or Krebs conversion.

The Kel-Tec is handier because you can fold it, and it is lightweight, the Saiga has a metal receiver, so it is even more durable.

I see no reason for the Ruger Mini/Ranch, as the other two rifles have more going for them.

 

[Kaylee]

Oh those you listed, I'd go for the Kel-tec. Lighter, handier, and it takes M16 magazines.

The Saiga will be a little heavier, and will need modifications to take AK maagazines. I'd go for a 7.62x39 just because the (AK) magazines and ammuntion are cheap and plentiful.

I've had two Minis... they have about the best "feel" of all of those options, but just... the innards don't live up to what they could be I think. I don't believe they're worth the money, at least not new.


Now finally.. personally I think an AR carbine would be better than any of those, and if you get a parts kit and buy a stripped lower from a dealer, you can get a darn good rifle with minimal work, and still stay in the price range of the Mini.

 

[22/22mag]

Saiga 762x39 or Mini 14/30 solid rifles and good high cap mags are available for the Saiga and Mini-14, the Mini-30 are harder to find.

 

[10-Ring]

OF the bunch you mention, I like the KelTec SU16