What are the differences in the Mini-14 models?

S

SpyGuy

New member
I am considering purchasing a Ruger Mini-14. I prefer stainless with a synthetic stock. But I would like to know the difference between the K-Mini-14/5P and the K-Mini-14/5RP?

Ruger's Web site (which is remarkably lacking in information) shows identical specs for both models except the K-Mini-14/5P lists a rear adjustable sight and the K-Mini-14/5RP lists a folding rear sight. Is that the only difference (besides the price)? Also, I assume that the folding rear sight is also adjustable, yes?

Are there any other factors I should consider before making a Mini-14 purchase decision?

Thanks!
 
One other question...

Obviously, the "5" in the model number Mini-14/5 refers to the newly-emasculated 5-round magazine.

(Why Ruger chose to do this when the law allows 10-rnd mags is beyond me. If the gun grabbers are going to sue, they won't care how proactively politically-correct your company has been. Just look at what happened to S&W. But I digress...)

My question is, do the new Mini-14/5 models still accept the larger capacity magazines?

Thanks again!

Btw, for those who wonder why I would give my patronage to Ruger in light of their apparent capitulation on the gun-control front, it's because I live in oppressive California and there are basically no other options for a newly-manufactured, military-style rifle.
 
The "R" signifies the "Ranch" config, which has the integral scope bases and a (cheesy, flimsy) flip-up rear aperture (it's really intended as a backup to the scope). Yes, it's adjustable, but that's cheesy too - the aperture leaf is screwed onto the flip-up part with a couple of tiny screws, and you adjust it by loosening them and sliding it around. The non-"R" has no scope bases, and a more substantial sight built into the receiver. You really have to commit to using either a scope or sights, and let that be your guide.

You could always save your spare change a little longer and get an M1A, or for about the same price as a Mini plus a little leg work, you can have the genuine article, an M1 from the CMP. I've got a non-"R" Mini and an M1, and there's no comparison - the M1 is a serious piece of hardware.

As for the magazines, I don't know if >10 will fit (they fit mine, but I got it in 1988). I can't see why they wouldn't. An outfit called PMI (Precision Magazines? Precision Metalworks?) makes Ruger's factory mags, and they're on the web, and they make >10 (I should say they have >10). If you know someone out of state, you can make arrangements to get some (did I say that?!). :eek:
 
In addition to what has already been said, the Ranch version also flings brass more horizontally so you don't whack the scope with every shot.

The rear sight on the Ranch is really cheesy compared to the nice rugged standard version.

'K' means "stainless" in the Ruger lexicon.

AC556 is the automatic version that is similar to the GB version.
 
Additionally to what the others have posted, Williams makes a replacement rear sight that is much more substantial than the factory sight. Also some owners have adapted a M1 carbine rear sight to the mini. The real thing to consider is if you ever want to use a scope. If so then get the 'ranch' model as it has integral scope mounts and come with the ruger rings. The non-ranch is better suited if you plan not to use a scope. You can mount a scope on a non-ranch model but the mounts available are kind of like the rear folding sight on the ranch model.... mickey mouse. PMI and ruger factory mags in high cap are still available but not in the PRK.
 
Thanks for all the info, that really clears things up. Too bad Ruger doesn't see fit to include more info about their products on their Web site.

I think I'll go with the Ranch model as I'd like the option to mount a scope.

Bullseye, you mentioned that Williams makes a replacement rear sight. Can this be used on the Ranch model or is it only for the standard Mini-14?
 
Yes the Williams sight will fit the Ranch model. I just installed one on mine last week but have not tried it yet. Got it from Brownells. The new Minis will accept Hi Cap Mags. Love my Mini 14!
 
I just picked up a Ranch model, with the intention of putting a red-dot on it. Now I think I may wait a bit on the dot and spend the dif on ammo.. eep.

However, I have noticed that you can just flip the rear sight down and use the little rises in the handguard around that metal button as crude open sights. Yeah, it's a really rough sight picture, but I figure it'll give pretty decent results inside 20-50 yards. (past that and I'd want the full-size M14 anyway). I figure it'll perform about on the level of AK sights, since the radius is about the same.

I'll try it out this morning and get back to you. It certainly aquires a lot faster than using the aperature!

-K

Edited after range trip...
Folded down rear sight.. obviously not as accurate, tends to result in hits a little low (+/- 6" at 50 yards). For room distance, would work great nonethless, I think. Just line the top of the front sight post with the Goblin's throat area and have at it.

In other wonderful news.. my one no-name 30 rounder (probably PMI, not sure) works great! way-rapid fire, HP rounds, not a hiccup... I'm a happy camper now...
 
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