The Ruger Mini-14 is a semi-automatic rifle that has been in production since 1973. It is a popular firearm among hunters, law enforcement agencies, and civilian gun enthusiasts. In this article, we will discuss the history, features, and specifications of the Ruger Mini-14.

History

The Ruger Mini-14 was designed by L. James Sullivan and William B. Ruger in the late 1960s. The rifle was based on the M14 military rifle, but it was scaled down to accept the .223 Remington cartridge. The first Ruger Mini-14 rifles were produced in 1973 and were marketed as a lightweight, compact rifle for hunting and ranch use.

In the late 1970s, the Ruger Mini-14 gained popularity among law enforcement agencies as a patrol rifle. The rifle's reliability, durability, and ease of use made it an attractive option for police departments across the United States. Today, the Ruger Mini-14 is still used by some law enforcement agencies, although it has been largely replaced by newer rifles such as the AR-15.

Features

The Ruger Mini-14 is a gas-operated, semi-automatic rifle that uses a rotating bolt to chamber rounds. The rifle is available in both wood and synthetic stocks, and it has a variety of barrel lengths ranging from 16 to 22 inches. The rifle has a fixed front sight and a rear iron sight that is adjustable for windage and elevation.

The Ruger Mini-14 is available in several different configurations, including the standard model, the ranch model, and the tactical model. The standard model has a blued steel receiver and a wood or synthetic stock, while the ranch model has a stainless steel receiver and a synthetic stock. The tactical model has a shorter barrel, a flash suppressor, and a collapsible stock.

Specifications

The Ruger Mini-14 has a maximum effective range of approximately 300 meters, although the accuracy of the rifle can vary depending on the barrel length and the type of ammunition used. The rifle has a magazine capacity of 5, 10, or 20 rounds, depending on the state in which it is sold. The rifle weighs between 6 and 7 pounds, depending on the configuration.

The Ruger Mini-14 is chambered in .223 Remington, which is a popular cartridge for hunting small game and varmints. The rifle can also be chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, which is a military cartridge that is similar to the .223 Remington. The rifle has a muzzle velocity of approximately 3,000 feet per second, depending on the barrel length and the type of ammunition used.

Conclusion

The Ruger Mini-14 is a versatile and reliable rifle that has been in production for nearly 50 years. It is a popular firearm among hunters, law enforcement agencies, and civilian gun enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for a lightweight, compact rifle for hunting or a reliable patrol rifle for law enforcement, the Ruger Mini-14 is a great choice.

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