New Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Rifle -- UPDATE

[Rafter-S]

The weather was finally cooperative for me to get outside to test the new stainless Mini-14 Ranch Rifle (with 3x Leupold scope). I fired 6 different types of .223 ammos, and one 5.56 off a bench at 100 yards. Compared to my experiences with older Mini-14’s I was pleased, in that the groups were dramatically smaller. But still the best it would do was 3-3/4”, and that was with UMC/Remington .223 FMJ.

I guess I will keep the gun...though I sure would have been happier if it had produced 1” groups. But like others have said, Mini-14’s are not noted for superb accuracy.

Rafter-S

 

[ohiobuckeye]

Hang on to it...That's a real "tack driver" in the world of mini 14s....

 

[m1gunner]

Was it consistent as the barrel got hot, or did the group open up or string shots?

 

[Rafter-S]

Was it consistent as the barrel got hot, or did the group open up or string shots?

I never allowed the barrel to get hot. There was little rhyme or reason to the grouping. Of 5 rounds, 3 might be within 1-1/2" with the other 2 slung low...or to the side. It was unpredictable.

My old Mini's were "pattern shooters." This new one is also a pattern shooter...with just smaller patterns.

I live out in the country and one of my primary purposes is to carry it in my truck when checking the place. It is not unusual to deal with coyotes at 150+ yards so I guess it will be good enough. The Mini will probably shoot better than I can hold steady anyway...so it now will depend on how lucky I am...and how unlucky the coyotes are.

Rafter-S

 

[therevjay]

Are all the Mini14's like that, or only the .223's? I know some are chambered for 7.62x39 are they any more accurate? Or less?

 

[m1gunner]

On my mini (an older 14) mag loading affected the group. Last round in the mag was always a flyer. First round was a flyer, depending on how I operated the bolt when loading.

After 4 or 5 shots, it shot patterns, again with last round from the mag being a flyer from the pattern.

For farm yotes, yours sounds like it will work.

 

[Lee in Quartzsite]

But still the best it would do was 3-3/4”...Rafter-S

I bought a new Mini-14 Tactical about 6 months ago on a whim and I can get Silver Dollar sized groups at 100 yards with no problem....using the stock iron sights and reloaded ammo.

Seem like the Military are having problems with their M4's reminiscent of the M-16 in Vietnam.

Weapons Failed Troops in Afghan Fight

 

[Rafter-S]

I am tempted to sell it and try one of these.

Online Store — DPMS: AR-15 Rifles, Parts and Accessories.

They are light weight, though not as compact as the Mini-14. From what I understand, the accuracy is much better.

Rafter-S

 

[pred]

I hear that if you change out the gas oriface to a slightl smaller one it will tighten the groups.
Just too much gas getting back to the workings is what I understand.
Peter

 

[n4zov]

Check out this site for accurizing info:

Ruger Mini-14 Talk - PerfectUnion BBS

Installing a simply muzzle break did wonders for the accuracy of my Mini 30.