I used to own a Mini-14 rifle a long time ago. Despite all of the criticism this rifle has received from the AR fans, I found that this little carbine is a good gun that can be effective for self defense. My Mini was of the Ranch rifle version and it was very accurate. I've heard horror stories about how Mini-14 carbines can's hold a group inside a paper plate from 100 yards. I have discovered, however, that I could keep 20 shots within a 7" circle from 100 yards using the iron sight. It is not good for a varminter, but for self defense purposes, 20 shots within a 7" circle from 100 yards is very good to me.
I would suggest, however, that you stay away from the Ranch Rifle version. The reason for that is because the rear sights on these rifles are not durable at all. I dropped my Ranch Rifle on my hard wood floor once, and the rifle's rear sight shattered to pieces. Ruger really needs to improve the metallurgy on their Ranch Rifle's rear sight. Another peef that I have with the Ranch Rifle is that when you mount the scope on the rifle, you won't be able to use the iron sight anymore. With the regular/standard version, you can get the scope mount that will still allow you to use the iron sight even with the scope installed on the rifle.
Just my humble opinion
Johannes