I don't want to start any flame wars. Just curious to thoughts here. I say this is a better comparison than MINI vs AR. Price wise around me A used mini can be had for $375.00 a lot of dealers want $350.00 for a new SAR3. Accuracy is about the same between these 2. So whats the opinion here. PMI,s - $30.00. WEIGERS $15.00-20.00. Wich one do ya choose and why?
MINI 14 vs. SAR 3
- Thread starter Flak 2
- Start date
OTOH...bought a SAR-3. Had a minor problem with the fit of the trigger. Fixed it in 10 minutes. Kept it. I am very happy with it.
Isn't choice a great thing?
Speaking logically, though, one factor that may affect your decision is availability of spare parts. I have not been able to find a spare bolt assembly for my SAR-3. That's about the only part that can't be easily modified from some other AK design.
So if you are concerned about parts availability, the Mini might be a better choice.
'Course, the likelihood of needing a new bolt on an AK is pretty low...
Isn't choice a great thing?
Speaking logically, though, one factor that may affect your decision is availability of spare parts. I have not been able to find a spare bolt assembly for my SAR-3. That's about the only part that can't be easily modified from some other AK design.
So if you are concerned about parts availability, the Mini might be a better choice.
'Course, the likelihood of needing a new bolt on an AK is pretty low...
Faced that exact choice about a month ago. Went with the Mini 'cause --
1 - already had an M-14 clone, so a virtually identical manual of arms was a great help. Under stress, I know both rifles work basically the same way.
2 - Mini handled better *to me*. Some folks get along better with pistol-gripped "assault weapon" patterns.. I find the stock Mini feels better to me.
3 - Call me shallow, but I liked having a much nicer fit and finish on the Mini.
Of course, mags are more spendy, I suppose.
In the end, comes down to holding both and seeing which feels better in your hands. I don't think you'll be dissappointed function-wise either way.
-K
1 - already had an M-14 clone, so a virtually identical manual of arms was a great help. Under stress, I know both rifles work basically the same way.
2 - Mini handled better *to me*. Some folks get along better with pistol-gripped "assault weapon" patterns.. I find the stock Mini feels better to me.
3 - Call me shallow, but I liked having a much nicer fit and finish on the Mini.
Of course, mags are more spendy, I suppose.
In the end, comes down to holding both and seeing which feels better in your hands. I don't think you'll be dissappointed function-wise either way.
-K
George Hill
Staff Alumnus
I'ld take the AK variant in a heart beat. Not even a question.
I have a Mini-14, and a SAR-1 (7.62x39). I really like them both! I have had the Mini since around '84 or '85 and never had a problem with it. It shoots all types of ammo and I never had a feeding problems with mags. The M1 Garand is my favorite rifle and thats what "drew" me to the Mini-14 in the first place. The fit and finish is much nicer on the Ruger.
On the other hand..... I am really fond of AK's, they are rugged and dependable. It is really up to you in the end. You should make a list of likes and dislikes about each gun and see how they measure up.
On the other hand..... I am really fond of AK's, they are rugged and dependable. It is really up to you in the end. You should make a list of likes and dislikes about each gun and see how they measure up.
blackamos had the idea, gettem both! Ordered 2 SAR3.s and a blued mini. Aim has SAR3,s $249.00@ if ya buy 2 or more. FFL said his cost on a blue MINI is $379.00. Buy the way AIM said they had plenty of 2,s + 3,s. I had dropped off some SKS,s about a month ago for him to sell and am happy to say he got $225.00@ for them. So I,m just turnin the money over. These two rifles seemed to be the best in the way of cheaper 223 cal. rifles. I don't think Armalites 180 will be out anytime soon. Thanks for the replies guys.