I live in a Red State and I am a Retired Marine and I live my 580+ series Mini -14 and I really don't understand the hate , I think primarily folks don't understand rifling twist rates and bullet selection predicated on that. Or maybe it's the whole MOA hype. According to the experts today The garand wouldn't pass muster. Again I love mine. It's become my primary.
Janes quartely in 2001 published that the Garand on the modern battlefield is useless. Until you put a scope one it. As for the mini; how many times has it blown up on its user? How many times has the mini14 bolt break in half while in use ? Most people only think about looking cool. Leave behind a cool looking corpse.
Clint Smith offered his opinions on the Mini 14 on TFB channel on YT. 1) In forty years of teaching urban carbine, no Mini 14 ever crapped out on the user. 2) It’s a .223 update to the M1 Carbine. I agree with both. The Ruger update to the Garand gas action flawless and the rifle is a workhorse.
I saw that video as well, but you also have to take into account that he also said for every hundred rifles coming through the class, ONE would be a Ruger mini 14. So there’s not many rifles going through that would really make the failure rate of zero, be a totally accurate account of the rifles reliability. If you had 99 ARs go through and one fails, and that ONE mini doesn’t, do you really think that’s an accurate depiction of the mini being more reliable than the AR? The answer is no. I own a few minis, i love them to death, they’re great rifles. But i wouldn’t try an argue that’s it’s more reliable than an AR, when one out of every hundred is the ratio
@@Usmc0341Today, sure. He probably sees about the same ratio for everything that isn't an AR. But I bet he saw plenty of mini 14s going through the course in the first half of that 40 years.
My Mini-14 was terrible. Ruger couldn't fix it even though it had a 30% FTF and even spat the bolt out the receiver. They eventually replaced it this summer and the new one has FTF only a few times out of aprox. 150 rounds.
how weak do you think it is?? any rifle can fail for some reason or another. you make it sound like the gas tube is made of plastic. but ill have my AR and my M1A
@@viper2165yeah bro it’s just good to have both if you can! I think it’s a good gun for a teenager or a woman. I wanted to get it for my ex. It seemed very suitable for her small but feisty frame HaHaHa
I have one with a scope and one without. For a scope I get it low powered at 2.5x fixed. I had an older Mini years ago that wouldn't shoot worth a darn, but the two I have now are the 580 series and with the newer barrels they are great shooters.
How is this a bad thing? There is nothing wrong with the mini14. Use what you have and are happy with it. I have my own preferences, but am not about to dictate to anyone else. Be safe, protect your family.
I am in idaho too . I dont have a scope on my ruger , but makes a great varmint rifle . I also use it to fill the freezer . It does very well out to a little over 200 yards with open sights .
I tried scopes and red dot sights on my mini-14, but I found myself just going back to the irons. I replaced the factory rear iron sight with a tech sight and it is plenty accurate.
I was a rookie patrolman in a small city when the department started issuing patrol rifles, All the guys senior to me good new AR 15s, but when they ran out of them, me and 5 other newbee's were given Mini 14s, within months several of the old timers wanted to trade the ARs with me for my Mini 14, never jammed on the range, I loved that old rifle, and so did our Chief !!!
Just picked up a short mini14 in the comrade state. I was amazed I was able to do so but it's been "de-featured" (ironically its black on black too) so I'm stoked. My dad had one from the 80s, I was not able to recover it from his black widow, so I finally got my own (I did find his mags). Can't wait to do some tasteful mods. Don't want to go all tactical Timmy, just some essentials. It's funny, my dad had a few he claimed he would grab if "shtf". I had a nice chuckle at that title. Thanks.
I’m in Spokane and I’m looking at one. Currently active duty and a resident of the state of the great of Louisiana. Since I’m in WA state I have to abide by the draconian laws here. The mini 14 is looking like a very solid option.
Yup. That's pretty much the point I was trying to tell some guys. Having something is better than nothing but I do like my mini and it's a good rifle to have around anyway. And glad to hear from you bro.
Personally i love the mini 14. My dads rifle of choice and what i would use before i bought an ar. BUT if i was spending my own money i cant justify it over an sks for 3x less. Only advantages i see for the mini over an sks is possible weight savings depending on the rifle configuration, ammo weight, and a easier more reliable optic mounting(and attachments depending in which model mini)
Love the mini 14. Got mine back in the 90s. Have hunted with it and have taken several animals with it. Also, have an AR, BUT I prefer the 14 over the AR. THE 14, I think, is a much better rifle. Really LOVE ❤️ MY MINI 14
You bet, its just an option that will work for some guys. I love my mini too, its been fun to have for sure. Stay in touch and glad for the comments. Cheers
Check out the barrel strut from strum ruger. It is one piece The strut is integrated into the gas block so there's no set screws. My groups are down to 1" MOA at 100 yds. Ask for Karl
Crud I was gonna mention in the video too (but I try to keep it short and just off the cuff) but another option is accuracy systems, I think in CO. They have a barrel stabilizer I wanna get, its just one more thing on my list of things to get haha.
@@winter_warfare Well I really enjoyed this video. The next thing I'm getting for my mini 14 is a ATI stock. I've been doing CQB With mine and and the full stock is a little cumbersome. Whenever I go through the center fed door when I get ready to do the snap out it catches my armpit lol. I'm actually building some makeshift walls today out of some free lumber I got from work.
@@223dmr7 Thank you very much. Ya its not gonna be perfect for CQB obviously but the message to guys is something is better than nothing. Time is running short, guys know. And your shoot house sounds great bro. Not sure your setup but you can stack and fill old tires too. If you are on Instagram let me know. Make sure to stay in touch. Cheers!
Mine shoots 3 inch groups at 175 yards with 58 year old eyes. I use it to protect my dogs from coyotes. Easier to carry, point and shoot than any of my AR rifles.
Most of this post is nonsense! Mini-14s usually don’t shoot 3 in groups at 100 yards! And easier to carry than an AR??? Explain? The mini is heavier & less ergonomic.
@@bluebeastsrt Happy to prove it, anytime. A Tech Sight and a skilled marksman make it happen. I weighed my Daniel Defense AR pistol. It weighs to the ounce, exactly what my poly stock mini weighs. It's easier to carry because you don't have it hanging below your knee when using the carry handle and don't have the barrel sticking in the dirt. I don't want my barrel down. Thats where my very expensive dogs are. Try carrying your AR on a dirt bike. It doesn't spook the granola crunchers on the Natl Forest like your sacred badass killing machine does. It's MUCH more quiet than ANY of my AR rifles. The Tech Sight doesn't scatter to the four winds when you point it into the sun. Finally, I'm not a tough guy and don't need to try to prove that I am. I'm just as happy, and just as deadly at coyote range with my 115 year old Savage 1899. You guys go on with your bad selves. Regardless of what I carry, I shoot it a LOT more than you do. Every morning, in fact.
@@ranchodeluxe1 Just wow. Blown away by your post. I live in the socialist city of New Yorkistan. We cant have an AR, so the closest we can get is a Mini 14. Ive owned my 584 Series Mini 14 for about 1 year. Since I dont have the money to buy lots of guns, I use it to compete in the heavy benchrest matches. Of course it wont win any, and cant compete with a bolt action Remington build, but I often wondered how close I can get my groups if I practiced long enough. Again, I wont win any matches with this, especially since the older guys at the range are true marksmen, but your post gives me hope that with enough practice, I can put some respectable numbers on the board. Yes, lots of factors come into play including ammo, but thanks so much for your comment. Much respect.
I think I’m gonna get a 584 series 14 I have a mini 30 with adjustable gas barrel strut with a primary arms 1-6 ffp raptor 7.62 300blk lpvo it does phenomenal for me as a camp carbine bored of ars already have an aug this looks like a lot of fun in a caliber that’s currently domestically produced
Hello from San Diego California. Really like that your modifications are within the Average Joe's budget. Don't worry I won't refugee up to Idaho. My father is in Arizona and my mom is in Arkansas. I will get a place in between. Poor poor Texas.
The state I live in the PNW passed the ban on black rifles. I’m good on my AR’s and mags but decided to purchase 2 of these recently. Oddly you can buy these. I guess it just shows how much the Pols don’t know. I still had quite a few 20 round mags from my last Mini 14 I owned years ago. It was the older model with the pencil barrel. Super reliable, not so accurate. These are much better.
Love my mini 30 tactical, got a Sig 4 x 12 optics , using a sling off a SKS that works great. Got a Springfield Armory M 14 and Garand, thus i am a rolling bolt guy like Hickory 45. Hate AR platform as the jam problem .
@@alandavis9644 You're wound a little tight, the world is going to hell right now so I understand. I simply laughed at calling Hickok, Hickory. I don't hate the AR platform, but I have the Mini 14 tactical with a 1.5-4x20 Leupold and it's one of my favorites out of everything I have.
Im thinking of buying one for a truck gun,since I don’t want to put a expensive AR in the truck,and I can’t buy AR anymore in Washington,I think this is next best option,what do you think?
Are AR fully restricted now in WA? You can see if mag lok is allowed on AR. But if not either way, my oponion I really like my mini 14. I might run it if SHTF depending maybe in the woods. It's a good general rifle and would work in your truck.
You can get ar15 for $400. Just put sights on it and keep it in a blanket with 20 round magazine to be handy. Mini 14 I had was way over gassed. I didn't know how to fix it so I sold it. Ripped the rim off of the case every third round.
Owner of a 14. I use Vortex rings v Ruger rings. What’s your experience with maintaining a solid connection using the Picatinny rail to the gun. Forget the Loctite Blue. When the chamber heats to 700+ degrees it melts all Loctite adhesives. What do you use, some of the high temp ceramics to 2000+ degrees? Thanks.
Pretty good video. I own a 584 series. I agree it can be a decent SHTF rifle, but not with a cheap 100 dollar Trinity force scope. For plinking, yeah that scope will get the job done. If it’s gonna be a defense weapon, when shit goes bad, you need a quality optic.
I am keeping mine with the wooden stock, SS barrel and 5 shot clips around it. If I look like a solider the weapon looks like a hated AR. Besides a nice wooden stock in the teeth hurts more, and I look like a hunter. Gray is less noticed.
You have a good thought process,but synthetic is almost more common now,a decade or two ago that wasn't the case.i don't see that being as big of a advantage anymore also taking into account that many (especially the younger generations, couldn't tell the difference at range,i.e a gun is a gun and they're not going to act differently if it's a hunting rifle or a scar 17 with a laser unit.
@@tedsemonis7905 you are most definitely right,but having grown up shooting iffy stocks I don't know if I could trust my life to gorilla wood glue,also wood swells and cracks if it doesn't have a finish to protect it.but wood has a great feel and might balance a front heavy rifle.i don't think it's much of a matter either way, but I used to hear the "non scary rifle" idea before and while at one time a sheriff or such might understand the difference,many today are so gun illiterate that they would group a single shot break action as if it was class 3.they both are equally deadly, that's a firearms job.but I believe the common public understanding that different firearms have different inferred uses is beyond the scope of most people at this point.
@@rangereview4590 The glue joints are often stronger that the original wood go to Mark Novak channel. In shft what else can you do, run downtown and get parts.
@@tedsemonis7905 true, especially if they are doweled as well,and that may be a easier repair.but regardless of what system you use you can prepare for a situation where you can't get parts easily,a spare stock already trimmed up and ready would solve any stock problem,as well as a adhesive for repairing synthetic stocks if that's what your rifle has,as well as brass pins and hardwood dowels or even spare AR furniture.having spare parts available is just good insurance no matter the setup
the issue comes from parts availability and repairs you can keep the features of ayy arrs in gommunist states like cali4nia using a maglock magazine release that only allows mags to drop when the upper is cracked open 1mm "in a state of disassembly" and then change it back to a standard mag release when needed
Why? They should be assault weapons. Why let them define what they should/shouldn’t be. Technically they aren’t because they aren’t full auto, but if they were they would be. Also it sounds awesome.
Guess you were not around in the 80’s when firearm magazines and companies advertised the AUG, Uzi, HK91, Chinese AK’s, Galil, Valmets, Daewoos, etc. as “assault weapons”. Yes I know the anti gun mafia uses that term now.
Mini 14s are my spirit animal. But EVERYONE is talking about them lately and that’s only going to put them in the spotlight. They won’t get our guns anyways so who really cares? Love the mini 14 though ❤️ And damn that land is gorgeous!
Thanks JP really appreciate the thoughts on your Mini 14. And you are right, lots of guys are talking about it, I didnt really realize how much until I made this video a few days ago. But I love my Mini 14 too. Hopefully it was only a small help for some guys who need a path forward. Yes I love this scenery here too. Thank you for the follow. Make sure to stay in touch brother.
@@winter_warfare Oh you can see that I just subscribed? Absolutely brother 💪🏻🇺🇸 Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad that people are hearing more about this firearm. Your video is definitely informative and I always crave mini 14 content. I just don’t wanna see these tyrants trying to ban these beauties as well. Like I said though...they won’t get them anyways! The scenery is amazing. That’s the type of land I’d have to go shoot everywhere on it 🤣 enjoy my firearms while getting the opportunity to be in such a beautiful environment. Hell yeah 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
That's because shooters got tired of holding plastic in their hands. I have ARs and they are more accurate but it is just like owning a Glock. They are great guns to own but will never satisfy the need to hold a firearm in your hands like a 1911 45 auto. That handgun will always be the best made ever in history. It just isn't the same.
@@winter_warfare So I checked again and it's the "Shop" page that does not come up at all. Home, About page are Ok. Please advise...Do I need to log in to see shop page? Also, I tried messaging you on the website, but no response to that message. Did you receive that message?
@@paulzimmerman3895 Hey Paul our site is up. I'm wondering if you refresh your browser. Or maybe you have slower internet connection. Guys are on our site all the time buying. But if for some reason it's still not working for you I can help you get anything you like. Also you do not need a login so that should not be an issue. And I'm really sorry it is giving you issues.
@@winter_warfare Thank you for your tenaciousness. That's what it takes in business. I still am not able to view the "Shop page" I do have older Apple. But I've really never had this issue with other web sites. I'll keep trying. Because I really would like to do some business with you. Can you provide your email address so we can discuss further?
I have an original Mini 14 with all wood furniture. It's a 180- starting serial number. I talked to Ruger & they said there's nothing I can do or add anything to the rifle until the 181 & 182 serial numbers. I'd like to put at least a red dot on it or anything else that works. Do you know what the answer is, ... can u help me ? Rifle is in absolute pristine condition & the all wood stock is gorgeous,..but that old peep sight at my age is getting a little tough.
Hey. buddy you can get rails from Ruger & gun stores. I have a Ruger Ranch wood stock made in 2000 & I put a new rail on it back in summer. You don't have to drill no holes. I just got the new Ruger mini 14 tactical & it came with a rail if I wanted to put it on & it will work on my Ranch if I wanted it to. I hope that will help you!
Well bro haha its all on topic. I just don't think I have finalized my EDC yet and don't wanna spend the $$ right now for a holster until I do. Its on the radar though. Also just talking out loud, if SHTF I may not take a side piece into the woods. City yes, but woods It would just depend. IDK we'll see what the mission is haha.
Id say its the fighter makes the rifle work and not the other way around. A guy training with a Mosin Nagant is going to be more effective then the 500lbs dude who buys a 1200$ AR but never trains. With that being stated there is nothing wrong with a Mini-14 as long as you can use it properly. Mags, however may be an issue because IME good ones are not easy to come by. Bermuda just got rid of their Mini14-B version. I think it was the last country on earth to still use the Mini as a main weapon. I dont think many Police forces use them anymore either. But IMO they are a sound weapon. I almost got one but the price of quality mags changed my mind so I got my M4 in its stead..
I own 2 of the 580 series and have never had any FTF/FTE with either one in 10 years and have run thousands of rounds thru these guns off my back deck at 2,3,5 hundred yds. I live on a farm on a dead end road so I shoot a lot. When it is dry I can walk rounds in with the dust pattern at 500 yds and beyond. Big dirt clods are the best target.
I am not a gunsmith. The thing with the AR is I can fix a trigger, replace the BCG, replace the barrel, and do all other sorts of repairs. Can you even buy spare parts for a mini-14?
As a long time Mini owner (Mini-30 bought in the 70s and Mini-14 bought about 7 yrs. ago), I can honestly say, I have never needed to replace any parts.
@@reb1050 Never said Mini-14s were bad guns... Ruger makes quality firearms and I have 2 Ruger guns now. But the video title mentions SHTF. I would just prefer a gun I can work on myself if there were no gunsmiths around after SHTF. My AR has never needed anything replaced either although I changed the barrel to get a longer gas system for less recoil and replaced the stock trigger with a nicer one.
@@rudder727 Being a realist, I feel that when the SHTF, although I will put up a hell of a fight, I probably would be over powered by shear numbers. I realize that, whether it be the govt. or a band of well armed citizens intent on taking what little I may have, I wont have a need for something that will be trouble free for many years. After all, I am in my 70's and don't have many years left anyway. My main need would be to put food on the table, and that can be done with a .22 and my 10/22 is quite capable of doing that with less noise, no recoil, and quite dependable and accurate.
@@rudder727 I love this spare parts bullshit excuse. Ask yourself something. Do you even own enough ammo to wear out a AR15 or Mini 14, let alone the freaking barrel. I mean really, if you are wearing out bolts and barrels that quick, then you might want to re-think your platform.
I have a bunch of different rifles but I'm gonna stick with an M16 variant because the Fibbies and traitors will be using that and I can only carry so much ammo
A cool rifle in it's own right for sure but since already mentioned SHTF scenario, you'd be out there being able to share magazines with .05% of friend or foe, that in itself should be a disqualifier as SHTF go to, let alone if it it needed parts later. I'm not saying not to own one or to sell it, just from the SHTF lens since it was already mentioned. Food for thought is all.
Was that a jam? Or did he legit just only shot off 3 rounds? Seems sus. What type of caliber round were you using? 5.56 or .223? Cuz I have heard about jams like that when using 5.56 on this thing
I live in New Jersey. One of the most unfriendly 2A states. An AR is still the best option for a self defense gun. Magazines are much easier to find. And much cheaper. I have a mini-14 and the firing pin broke. That’s a common issue. The ARs are usually more accurate than the mini. Not by a lot but noticeable better.
In anti gun jurisdictions like new jersey having a home defense long gun that looks like a "regular" rifle will give you an edge with a jury as it does not look like a "machine gun." It should not matter but t can why cause a possible problem.
i think they both have a place in someones collection. An AR with a red dot or lpvo for home defense/shtf. Then a mini 14 as a truck rifle so you can travel with it and put a scope on it you can see farther and be used more in a hunting fashon. It is also more lowkey but still has similar capabilities.
Its gonna just be up to your preference and what you like or need. The mags work just as AR style so you do not need anything special. I run mini 14 mags in my esstac pouches on my plate carrier for example. My chest rig right now is just a condor but I really need to upgrade and hope to do this soon. But also > ua-cam.com/video/CEUt9cS3eL0/v-deo.htmlsi=jaXebami85sdPJ-8
You probably tried but have you checked any forums to find your jamming issue. One possibility is the mini 14 is known to have too much gas pressure, the high recoil from this can bounce the rounds as they chamber and some guys have or it is common fix to install a smaller gas port bushing.
Yes for sure at the point who cares, I was just thinking what guys in some areas could get now or in some cases something for less tactical guys....The more the better.......And thank you
I ditched my Mini 14 because I had 10 magazines 20 , 30 and 40 rounds and zero none of them functioned properly i went back with a Ruger .556 MPR ABSOLUTELY THE BEST CHOICE FOR ME.
From what I have read (only read) the OEM mags are really what works in the Mini. I only run Ruger mags and I have not had any issues so perhaps its after market mags I'm not sure. But regardless the good news, sounds like you found something now you like.
@@johnganshow5536 From a steady rest a person can hit adult size torso targets at 100 yards with a stock Mini 14. That's plenty accurate for the weekend warriors/wannabe special operatives. ✌🏽
We are the united states. There are no enemy lines... so to speak. Your manner of speech would eloquently and fondly play at dividing the nation against itself.
Mini 14 for SHTF? Stupid idea. Main reason why this is STUPID: Can’t get spare parts. For liability reasons, Ruger won’t sell spares. If you break a firing pin on a hard primer or something your pretty much fk’d. You now have a club because that’s all it’ll be good for. Even if you could get spare parts, the firing pin has to be file fit, not everyone could do this properly. The bolts have to be properly headspaced or the gun won’t function properly and could possibly blow up. Also, you obviously need special skills and tools to do this. If this is all you have at the time of SHTF event, so be it. It’ll probably be fine. However, it would be much smarter to just get an AR and buy plenty of cheap spare parts. Firing pins, springs, extractors, pins, detents, etc can all be installed easily and w/o special skills. I keep a spare fully assembled bolt inside the little compartment on my pistol grip. Technically an AR bolt should be headspaced also but 99% of the time they will work regardless and won’t blow up the rifle like a mini or a M1A if not headspaced. You can but the go/no go gauges and learn how to do it though. None of these scenarios are likely to happen but if we are talking about SHTF you absolutely need spares. The mini is a horrible idea in that regard.
Last Christmas I found a 5802 ruger mini 14 ranch rifle under the tree upon opening the box there was a plastic bag with a complete bolt assembly! Santa/Father had the factory fit a spare bolt assembly. No worries.
I live in a Red State and I am a Retired Marine and I live my 580+ series Mini -14 and I really don't understand the hate , I think primarily folks don't understand rifling twist rates and bullet selection predicated on that. Or maybe it's the whole MOA hype. According to the experts today The garand wouldn't pass muster. Again I love mine. It's become my primary.
Thank you for checking in and thank you to my fellow Vets out there and Semper Fi to you brother. Hope to see you around the channel again.
My dad says the same thing.
My mini is amazing. Super fun and super accurate. People just like to hate when it’s popular
Great firearm
Janes quartely in 2001 published that the Garand on the modern battlefield is useless. Until you put a scope one it.
As for the mini; how many times has it blown up on its user? How many times has the mini14 bolt break in half while in use ? Most people only think about looking cool. Leave behind a cool looking corpse.
Clint Smith offered his opinions on the Mini 14 on TFB channel on YT.
1) In forty years of teaching urban carbine, no Mini 14 ever crapped out on the user.
2) It’s a .223 update to the M1 Carbine.
I agree with both. The Ruger update to the Garand gas action flawless and the rifle is a workhorse.
I saw that video as well, but you also have to take into account that he also said for every hundred rifles coming through the class, ONE would be a Ruger mini 14. So there’s not many rifles going through that would really make the failure rate of zero, be a totally accurate account of the rifles reliability. If you had 99 ARs go through and one fails, and that ONE mini doesn’t, do you really think that’s an accurate depiction of the mini being more reliable than the AR? The answer is no. I own a few minis, i love them to death, they’re great rifles. But i wouldn’t try an argue that’s it’s more reliable than an AR, when one out of every hundred is the ratio
@@Usmc0341Today, sure. He probably sees about the same ratio for everything that isn't an AR. But I bet he saw plenty of mini 14s going through the course in the first half of that 40 years.
My Mini-14 was terrible. Ruger couldn't fix it even though it had a 30% FTF and even spat the bolt out the receiver. They eventually replaced it this summer and the new one has FTF only a few times out of aprox. 150 rounds.
Every AR guy underestimates how weak the gas tube is. ARs are weapons designed to be serviced and maintained.
Mini 14s AKs are workhorses
how weak do you think it is?? any rifle can fail for some reason or another. you make it sound like the gas tube is made of plastic. but ill have my AR and my M1A
@@viper2165yeah bro it’s just good to have both if you can! I think it’s a good gun for a teenager or a woman. I wanted to get it for my ex. It seemed very suitable for her small but feisty frame HaHaHa
I think the weak link in the M4 gas systems is the 3 little gas rings on the bolt carrier.
Yeahh but the mini barrel overheats after a few mags
@@TruthSeeker9038 stainless barrels do get hot but last forever
That is one nice rifle. I love my Mini-14. Love the look and feel of the rifle.
Yes you bet, love mine too
I have one with a scope and one without. For a scope I get it low powered at 2.5x fixed. I had an older Mini years ago that wouldn't shoot worth a darn, but the two I have now are the 580 series and with the newer barrels they are great shooters.
How is this a bad thing? There is nothing wrong with the mini14. Use what you have and are happy with it. I have my own preferences, but am not about to dictate to anyone else. Be safe, protect your family.
I am in idaho too . I dont have a scope on my ruger , but makes a great varmint rifle . I also use it to fill the freezer . It does very well out to a little over 200 yards with open sights .
Thanks for checking in neighbor, always great to hear from guys in the area. Stay in touch. Cheers
I tried scopes and red dot sights on my mini-14, but I found myself just going back to the irons. I replaced the factory rear iron sight with a tech sight and it is plenty accurate.
I was a rookie patrolman in a small city when the department started issuing patrol rifles, All the guys senior to me good new AR 15s, but when they ran out of them, me and 5 other newbee's were given Mini 14s, within months several of the old timers wanted to trade the ARs with me for my Mini 14, never jammed on the range, I loved that old rifle, and so did our Chief !!!
I had one back in the 80's. Other than crappy accuracy, I liked it. Never jammed.
The new ones have improved accuracy
Just picked up a short mini14 in the comrade state. I was amazed I was able to do so but it's been "de-featured" (ironically its black on black too) so I'm stoked. My dad had one from the 80s, I was not able to recover it from his black widow, so I finally got my own (I did find his mags). Can't wait to do some tasteful mods. Don't want to go all tactical Timmy, just some essentials. It's funny, my dad had a few he claimed he would grab if "shtf". I had a nice chuckle at that title. Thanks.
Thanks for checking in and sorry to hear you couldn't get your dads mini 14. Keep moving forward brother and stay in touch.
I’m in Spokane and I’m looking at one. Currently active duty and a resident of the state of the great of Louisiana. Since I’m in WA state I have to abide by the draconian laws here. The mini 14 is looking like a very solid option.
Yup. That's pretty much the point I was trying to tell some guys. Having something is better than nothing but I do like my mini and it's a good rifle to have around anyway. And glad to hear from you bro.
Personally i love the mini 14. My dads rifle of choice and what i would use before i bought an ar. BUT if i was spending my own money i cant justify it over an sks for 3x less. Only advantages i see for the mini over an sks is possible weight savings depending on the rifle configuration, ammo weight, and a easier more reliable optic mounting(and attachments depending in which model mini)
I have a mini 30 stainless with synthetic stock and a leupld w.5 fixed power scope and I regularly take deer and hogs out to 200 yards.
Thanks for an honest review! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Love the mini 14. Got mine back in the 90s. Have hunted with it and have taken several animals with it. Also, have an AR, BUT I prefer the 14 over the AR. THE 14, I think, is a much better rifle. Really LOVE ❤️ MY MINI 14
You bet, its just an option that will work for some guys. I love my mini too, its been fun to have for sure. Stay in touch and glad for the comments. Cheers
Check out the barrel strut from strum ruger. It is one piece The strut is integrated into the gas block so there's no set screws. My groups are down to 1" MOA at 100 yds. Ask for Karl
Crud I was gonna mention in the video too (but I try to keep it short and just off the cuff) but another option is accuracy systems, I think in CO. They have a barrel stabilizer I wanna get, its just one more thing on my list of things to get haha.
@@winter_warfare Well I really enjoyed this video. The next thing I'm getting for my mini 14 is a ATI stock. I've been doing CQB With mine and and the full stock is a little cumbersome. Whenever I go through the center fed door when I get ready to do the snap out it catches my armpit lol. I'm actually building some makeshift walls today out of some free lumber I got from work.
I wished I had an old house Out here on my land that I could turn into a shoot house. But I'm not going to build one lol
@@223dmr7 Thank you very much. Ya its not gonna be perfect for CQB obviously but the message to guys is something is better than nothing. Time is running short, guys know. And your shoot house sounds great bro. Not sure your setup but you can stack and fill old tires too. If you are on Instagram let me know. Make sure to stay in touch. Cheers!
@@winter_warfare I don't have IG . But I will stay in touch. Stay frosty brother
I think it's a straight up pretty rifle too
having been a guitar guy, really prefer that stock in wood to an AR
Yes for sure and I just love that big bolt its just a badass hunk of steel.
Nice shooting! Behind the front line here where black plastic is too scary, the 14 (or 30) is the obvious choice. Thanks!
Mine shoots 3 inch groups at 175 yards with 58 year old eyes. I use it to protect my dogs from coyotes. Easier to carry, point and shoot than any of my AR rifles.
Most of this post is nonsense! Mini-14s usually don’t shoot 3 in groups at 100 yards! And easier to carry than an AR??? Explain? The mini is heavier & less ergonomic.
@@bluebeastsrt Happy to prove it, anytime. A Tech Sight and a skilled marksman make it happen. I weighed my Daniel Defense AR pistol. It weighs to the ounce, exactly what my poly stock mini weighs. It's easier to carry because you don't have it hanging below your knee when using the carry handle and don't have the barrel sticking in the dirt. I don't want my barrel down. Thats where my very expensive dogs are. Try carrying your AR on a dirt bike. It doesn't spook the granola crunchers on the Natl Forest like your sacred badass killing machine does. It's MUCH more quiet than ANY of my AR rifles. The Tech Sight doesn't scatter to the four winds when you point it into the sun. Finally, I'm not a tough guy and don't need to try to prove that I am. I'm just as happy, and just as deadly at coyote range with my 115 year old Savage 1899. You guys go on with your bad selves. Regardless of what I carry, I shoot it a LOT more than you do. Every morning, in fact.
@@ranchodeluxe1 Just wow. Blown away by your post. I live in the socialist city of New Yorkistan. We cant have an AR, so the closest we can get is a Mini 14. Ive owned my 584 Series Mini 14 for about 1 year. Since I dont have the money to buy lots of guns, I use it to compete in the heavy benchrest matches. Of course it wont win any, and cant compete with a bolt action Remington build, but I often wondered how close I can get my groups if I practiced long enough. Again, I wont win any matches with this, especially since the older guys at the range are true marksmen, but your post gives me hope that with enough practice, I can put some respectable numbers on the board. Yes, lots of factors come into play including ammo, but thanks so much for your comment. Much respect.
I think I’m gonna get a 584 series 14 I have a mini 30 with adjustable gas barrel strut with a primary arms 1-6 ffp raptor 7.62 300blk lpvo it does phenomenal for me as a camp carbine bored of ars already have an aug this looks like a lot of fun in a caliber that’s currently domestically produced
Hello from San Diego California. Really like that your modifications are within the Average Joe's budget.
Don't worry I won't refugee up to Idaho. My father is in Arizona and my mom is in Arkansas. I will get a place in between. Poor poor Texas.
Thank you very much. Sounds like a good plan bro, when are you heading to TX
I love my Mini-14, great video
Thank you bro....Cheers
I just got some composite mags. I'm glad they have options other than steel mags now.
Did they feed ok?
Where from?
@@winter_warfare they pop out when mag is full sometimes. That's not a bonus. They cycled fine.
@@saulpaul7263 academy sports
The state I live in the PNW passed the ban on black rifles. I’m good on my AR’s and mags but decided to purchase 2 of these recently. Oddly you can buy these. I guess it just shows how much the Pols don’t know. I still had quite a few 20 round mags from my last Mini 14 I owned years ago. It was the older model with the pencil barrel. Super reliable, not so accurate. These are much better.
Anyone know if there's a company that makes a winter trigger for the mini 14, like the one that was for the M14?
Love my mini 30 tactical, got a Sig 4 x 12 optics , using a sling off a SKS that works great. Got a Springfield Armory M 14 and Garand, thus i am a rolling bolt guy like Hickory 45. Hate AR platform as the jam problem .
Hickory 45, lmao.
@@PikeBishop1 so we gotta another mummies basement troll adding comments.
@@alandavis9644 You're wound a little tight, the world is going to hell right now so I understand. I simply laughed at calling Hickok, Hickory. I don't hate the AR platform, but I have the Mini 14 tactical with a 1.5-4x20 Leupold and it's one of my favorites out of everything I have.
@@PikeBishop1 nice set up, sorry missed the mistake and went defensive for the old guy. Love his stuff.
@@alandavis9644 Yeah I love the old guy and his stuff too, have for 10 years or so. Cheers.
Im thinking of buying one for a truck gun,since I don’t want to put a expensive AR in the truck,and I can’t buy AR anymore in Washington,I think this is next best option,what do you think?
Are AR fully restricted now in WA? You can see if mag lok is allowed on AR. But if not either way, my oponion I really like my mini 14. I might run it if SHTF depending maybe in the woods. It's a good general rifle and would work in your truck.
You can get ar15 for $400. Just put sights on it and keep it in a blanket with 20 round magazine to be handy.
Mini 14 I had was way over gassed. I didn't know how to fix it so I sold it.
Ripped the rim off of the case every third round.
Owner of a 14. I use Vortex rings v Ruger rings. What’s your experience with maintaining a solid connection using the Picatinny rail to the gun. Forget the Loctite Blue. When the chamber heats to 700+ degrees it melts all Loctite adhesives. What do you use, some of the high temp ceramics to 2000+ degrees? Thanks.
Great rifle man. The AR is a plastic piece of crap anyway
Pretty good video. I own a 584 series. I agree it can be a decent SHTF rifle, but not with a cheap 100 dollar Trinity force scope. For plinking, yeah that scope will get the job done. If it’s gonna be a defense weapon, when shit goes bad, you need a quality optic.
If it has a scope, it is an offensive weapon.
@@erictrippe2778 that’s the dumbest shit I’ve ever heard
@@erictrippe2778 that’s the dumbest shit I’ve ever read
@@erictrippe2778that’s the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard
I am keeping mine with the wooden stock, SS barrel and 5 shot clips around it. If I look like a solider the weapon looks like a hated AR. Besides a nice wooden stock in the teeth hurts more, and I look like a hunter. Gray is less noticed.
You have a good thought process,but synthetic is almost more common now,a decade or two ago that wasn't the case.i don't see that being as big of a advantage anymore also taking into account that many (especially the younger generations, couldn't tell the difference at range,i.e a gun is a gun and they're not going to act differently if it's a hunting rifle or a scar 17 with a laser unit.
@@rangereview4590 Besides with a wooded stock being heavier is steadier. And you can glue wood.
@@tedsemonis7905 you are most definitely right,but having grown up shooting iffy stocks I don't know if I could trust my life to gorilla wood glue,also wood swells and cracks if it doesn't have a finish to protect it.but wood has a great feel and might balance a front heavy rifle.i don't think it's much of a matter either way, but I used to hear the "non scary rifle" idea before and while at one time a sheriff or such might understand the difference,many today are so gun illiterate that they would group a single shot break action as if it was class 3.they both are equally deadly, that's a firearms job.but I believe the common public understanding that different firearms have different inferred uses is beyond the scope of most people at this point.
@@rangereview4590 The glue joints are often stronger that the original wood go to
Mark Novak channel. In shft what else can you do, run downtown and get parts.
@@tedsemonis7905 true, especially if they are doweled as well,and that may be a easier repair.but regardless of what system you use you can prepare for a situation where you can't get parts easily,a spare stock already trimmed up and ready would solve any stock problem,as well as a adhesive for repairing synthetic stocks if that's what your rifle has,as well as brass pins and hardwood dowels or even spare AR furniture.having spare parts available is just good insurance no matter the setup
I have used my mini 14 and mini 30s in all weather and temperature.
the issue comes from parts availability and repairs
you can keep the features of ayy arrs in gommunist states like cali4nia using a maglock magazine release that only allows mags to drop when the upper is cracked open 1mm "in a state of disassembly"
and then change it back to a standard mag release when needed
Yes very good point. There are other legal options for sure.
Assault weapons also known as a gun grabber's term let's stop using it.
Why? They should be assault weapons. Why let them define what they should/shouldn’t be. Technically they aren’t because they aren’t full auto, but if they were they would be. Also it sounds awesome.
Soon as I heard the term assault weapons I’m out. Thanks.
Guess you were not around in the 80’s when firearm magazines and companies advertised the AUG, Uzi, HK91, Chinese AK’s, Galil, Valmets, Daewoos, etc. as “assault weapons”. Yes I know the anti gun mafia uses that term now.
Anything can be an "Assault" weapon, even your hands, all it takes is using them to Assault someone
@marktwain2053 fully understand same thing with a Saturday night special some of us can make a high point special if we need it to...
Mini 14s are my spirit animal.
But EVERYONE is talking about them lately and that’s only going to put them in the spotlight. They won’t get our guns anyways so who really cares? Love the mini 14 though ❤️
And damn that land is gorgeous!
Thanks JP really appreciate the thoughts on your Mini 14. And you are right, lots of guys are talking about it, I didnt really realize how much until I made this video a few days ago. But I love my Mini 14 too. Hopefully it was only a small help for some guys who need a path forward. Yes I love this scenery here too. Thank you for the follow. Make sure to stay in touch brother.
@@winter_warfare
Oh you can see that I just subscribed? Absolutely brother 💪🏻🇺🇸
Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad that people are hearing more about this firearm. Your video is definitely informative and I always crave mini 14 content. I just don’t wanna see these tyrants trying to ban these beauties as well. Like I said though...they won’t get them anyways!
The scenery is amazing. That’s the type of land I’d have to go shoot everywhere on it 🤣 enjoy my firearms while getting the opportunity to be in such a beautiful environment. Hell yeah 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Copy That....Hell Ya
My god, I paid $575.00 for my 581 series mini 14 after they came out with the new upgraded version. I can't believe they are $1200 now.
Its like gold......
can build 3 ar's for the price of 1 mini...hard pass
That's because shooters got tired of holding plastic in their hands. I have ARs and they are more accurate but it is just like owning a Glock. They are great guns to own but will never satisfy the need to hold a firearm in your hands like a 1911 45 auto. That handgun will always be the best made ever in history. It just isn't the same.
That was my saying in the army the standards don’t change you do.
You got it bro .......
I've been trying to look at gear on your website. Can't see anything. Can you give update? Thanks.
Yes our website is winterwarfare.com ......let me know if there is an issue
@@winter_warfare So I checked again and it's the "Shop" page that does not come up at all. Home, About page are Ok. Please advise...Do I need to log in to see shop page? Also, I tried messaging you on the website, but no response to that message. Did you receive that message?
@@paulzimmerman3895 Hey Paul our site is up. I'm wondering if you refresh your browser. Or maybe you have slower internet connection. Guys are on our site all the time buying. But if for some reason it's still not working for you I can help you get anything you like. Also you do not need a login so that should not be an issue. And I'm really sorry it is giving you issues.
Paul just wanted to check back
@@winter_warfare Thank you for your tenaciousness. That's what it takes in business. I still am not able to view the "Shop page" I do have older Apple. But I've really never had this issue with other web sites. I'll keep trying. Because I really would like to do some business with you. Can you provide your email address so we can discuss further?
I have an original Mini 14 with all wood furniture. It's a 180- starting serial number. I talked to Ruger & they said there's nothing I can do or add anything to the rifle until the 181 & 182 serial numbers. I'd like to put at least a red dot on it or anything else that works. Do you know what the answer is, ... can u help me ? Rifle is in absolute pristine condition & the all wood stock is gorgeous,..but that old peep sight at my age is getting a little tough.
Maybe double check with Accuracy Systems. They may have a rail you can get, you'll need to check.
Stock from ATI. Makes it modular so you can add what you like to it
The best rail out there to replace the upper front handguard is the ULTIMAC rail. Solid platform and will mount a red dot or long eye relief scope.
Hey. buddy you can get rails from Ruger & gun stores. I have a Ruger Ranch wood stock made in 2000 & I put a new rail on it back in summer. You don't have to drill no holes. I just got the new Ruger mini 14 tactical & it came with a rail if I wanted to put it on & it will work on my Ranch if I wanted it to. I hope that will help you!
I'm sorry buddy I didn't realize you sent your comment a year ago so I hope you have found a rail by now.
Got mine today!
Awesome buddy!!
I love my Mini 30 too!
I have the ranch rifle. Love it. Runs 223 and 556.
Yeah buddy
Does one ammo run better than the other?
Off topic. But I'd suggest getting a different holster set up. The safariland als/qls is superior. Not a fan of those floppy nylon style thigh rigs.
Well bro haha its all on topic. I just don't think I have finalized my EDC yet and don't wanna spend the $$ right now for a holster until I do. Its on the radar though. Also just talking out loud, if SHTF I may not take a side piece into the woods. City yes, but woods It would just depend. IDK we'll see what the mission is haha.
@@winter_warfare I'd always consider a secondary incase the primary fails.
@@BurkeBerserker U.S. Military infantry doesn't!
@Mrelindio42 okay? Most infantry troops don't carry pistols as is. I'm not seeing your point here man.
Id say its the fighter makes the rifle work and not the other way around. A guy training with a Mosin Nagant is going to be more effective then the 500lbs dude who buys a 1200$ AR but never trains. With that being stated there is nothing wrong with a Mini-14 as long as you can use it properly. Mags, however may be an issue because IME good ones are not easy to come by. Bermuda just got rid of their Mini14-B version. I think it was the last country on earth to still use the Mini as a main weapon. I dont think many Police forces use them anymore either. But IMO they are a sound weapon. I almost got one but the price of quality mags changed my mind so I got my M4 in its stead..
Yes very good point. Guys need to train vs. just get $ gear. And yes the 14 mags are expensive.
I own 2 of the 580 series and have never had any FTF/FTE with either one in 10 years and have run thousands of rounds thru these guns off my back deck at 2,3,5 hundred yds. I live on a farm on a dead end road so I shoot a lot. When it is dry I can walk rounds in with the dust pattern at 500 yds and beyond. Big dirt clods are the best target.
I am not a gunsmith. The thing with the AR is I can fix a trigger, replace the BCG, replace the barrel, and do all other sorts of repairs. Can you even buy spare parts for a mini-14?
As a long time Mini owner (Mini-30 bought in the 70s and Mini-14 bought about 7 yrs. ago), I can honestly say, I have never needed to replace any parts.
@@reb1050 Never said Mini-14s were bad guns... Ruger makes quality firearms and I have 2 Ruger guns now. But the video title mentions SHTF. I would just prefer a gun I can work on myself if there were no gunsmiths around after SHTF. My AR has never needed anything replaced either although I changed the barrel to get a longer gas system for less recoil and replaced the stock trigger with a nicer one.
You won't need any spare parts for the mini 14. Its that reliable just like the 30 carbine and the M1 Garand.
@@rudder727 Being a realist, I feel that when the SHTF, although I will put up a hell of a fight, I probably would be over powered by shear numbers. I realize that, whether it be the govt. or a band of well armed citizens intent on taking what little I may have, I wont have a need for something that will be trouble free for many years. After all, I am in my 70's and don't have many years left anyway. My main need would be to put food on the table, and that can be done with a .22 and my 10/22 is quite capable of doing that with less noise, no recoil, and quite dependable and accurate.
@@rudder727 I love this spare parts bullshit excuse. Ask yourself something. Do you even own enough ammo to wear out a AR15 or Mini 14, let alone the freaking barrel. I mean really, if you are wearing out bolts and barrels that quick, then you might want to re-think your platform.
I’ve been trying to get my hands but can’t find any in stock anywhere
If you can find one online just order it to your local FFL gun shop
Was this mounted using a pic rail?
Yes you are correct I a pic rail
nice, Kiss. no need for all the fancy top dollar gear, a good ole rifle will work if you put in the training
I have a bunch of different rifles but I'm gonna stick with an M16 variant because the Fibbies and traitors will be using that and I can only carry so much ammo
This rifle chambered in .223 and a 9mm pistol is all you will ever need in a shtf situation and you have to travel or pack out
A cool rifle in it's own right for sure but since already mentioned SHTF scenario, you'd be out there being able to share magazines with .05% of friend or foe, that in itself should be a disqualifier as SHTF go to, let alone if it it needed parts later. I'm not saying not to own one or to sell it, just from the SHTF lens since it was already mentioned. Food for thought is all.
Good thoughts bro. Definitely something to think about.
Was that a jam? Or did he legit just only shot off 3 rounds? Seems sus. What type of caliber round were you using? 5.56 or .223? Cuz I have heard about jams like that when using 5.56 on this thing
5.56 and .223 are pretty much the same thing
I live in New Jersey. One of the most unfriendly 2A states. An AR is still the best option for a self defense gun. Magazines are much easier to find. And much cheaper. I have a mini-14 and the firing pin broke. That’s a common issue. The ARs are usually more accurate than the mini. Not by a lot but noticeable better.
In anti gun jurisdictions like new jersey having a home defense long gun that looks like a "regular" rifle will give you an edge with a jury as it does not look like a "machine gun." It should not matter but t can why cause a possible problem.
It’s a shame most people do not realize there are more lethal guns out there that look so innocent versus the A.R. 15.
It is a regular rifle
Mini 14s are great, but ARs in 5.56 are more common, and parts and magazines are easier to come by and more affordable.
i think they both have a place in someones collection. An AR with a red dot or lpvo for home defense/shtf. Then a mini 14 as a truck rifle so you can travel with it and put a scope on it you can see farther and be used more in a hunting fashon. It is also more lowkey but still has similar capabilities.
Any recommendations for chest rig for the mini?
Its gonna just be up to your preference and what you like or need. The mags work just as AR style so you do not need anything special. I run mini 14 mags in my esstac pouches on my plate carrier for example. My chest rig right now is just a condor but I really need to upgrade and hope to do this soon. But also > ua-cam.com/video/CEUt9cS3eL0/v-deo.htmlsi=jaXebami85sdPJ-8
One problem with the mini is it throws fireballs like crazy so low signature is difficult at best
Get a flash suppressor.
I have used my mini 14 and mini 30s in all weather and temperatures and it has never failed....to jam repeatedly.
You probably tried but have you checked any forums to find your jamming issue. One possibility is the mini 14 is known to have too much gas pressure, the high recoil from this can bounce the rounds as they chamber and some guys have or it is common fix to install a smaller gas port bushing.
Maybe it's just you.
@@timvest8141 I wish it was
There are some very poor mags on the market for the mini. Use OEM, PMI and I have good luck with Tapco.
Crap mags cause a lot of failures.
Unhappy with reliability, so you have two Mini's?
I owned one of the first ones to come out it damage my brass, and you couldn’t hit a bull in the butt if you was riding it
The knock on these has always been poor accuracy. the rifles generally shoot 3 MOA which is enough for minute of bad guy under shtf conditions
I'm looking for a mini 14 modded similar to this one
I've got a Ruger Ranch with wooden stock. Great shape shot very little.
$$?@@Tommy-rr7ez
Mini 14 for when shit doesn't hit the fan
July 14, 1914
Ruger MINI 30 is the best.
why aren't you lying prone straight behind the rifle? won't that increase recoil and you're providing a larger target?
He's using proper technique.
Love my mini
Cant watch this,
Ah. Ah. Ahhh
not as accurate as my LMT ar15 but still plenty accurate enough, plus they are just fun rifles to shoot.
Definitely that LMT sounds nice....I had catch myself for a second to mention there are better riffles....Haha some guys know, some don't
@@winter_warfare still something about wood furniture on the minis that I love though.
@@michaelball760 Oh hell yeah the socom with wood......I just need more $ for toys.......haha
Worries about laws in a WROL scenario. Sweet vid, tho!
Yes for sure at the point who cares, I was just thinking what guys in some areas could get now or in some cases something for less tactical guys....The more the better.......And thank you
My own private Idaho
Let's politics let's talk about the Many fourteen . In my opinion It is the all around.
I keep a mini-30 by my nightstand.
You just really never know these days.......you never know
I’ve definitely had better… sold it years ago, bought another AR. Zero regrets.
War ever comes to our shores if im using an antique it sure as shit won't be an AR its an AUG
Had to look that up, looks cool, I've never shot one though
I ditched my Mini 14 because I had 10 magazines 20 , 30 and 40 rounds and zero none of them functioned properly i went back with a Ruger .556 MPR ABSOLUTELY THE BEST CHOICE FOR ME.
From what I have read (only read) the OEM mags are really what works in the Mini. I only run Ruger mags and I have not had any issues so perhaps its after market mags I'm not sure. But regardless the good news, sounds like you found something now you like.
Ruger Mini 14.... When you need "Minute of Barn Accuracy" from "Inside the Barn".
Mine shoots MOA....
@@johnganshow5536 Dude, I believe that as much as I believe in the TOOTH FAIRY.
You must suck at shooting. Torso target at 300 yds with a mini is no problem.
@@johnganshow5536 From a steady rest a person can hit adult size torso targets at 100 yards with a stock Mini 14. That's plenty accurate for the weekend warriors/wannabe special operatives. ✌🏽
@@marsoelflaco5722 I hit a torso target standing at 170 yards. Three inch groups off bench at same distance
The video to far brother
We are the united states. There are no enemy lines... so to speak.
Your manner of speech would eloquently and fondly play at dividing the nation against itself.
Bruh you say uh way to much.
Thanks Bruh.....
Hard pass
Mini 14 for SHTF? Stupid idea. Main reason why this is STUPID:
Can’t get spare parts. For liability reasons, Ruger won’t sell spares. If you break a firing pin on a hard primer or something your pretty much fk’d. You now have a club because that’s all it’ll be good for.
Even if you could get spare parts, the firing pin has to be file fit, not everyone could do this properly. The bolts have to be properly headspaced or the gun won’t function properly and could possibly blow up. Also, you obviously need special skills and tools to do this.
If this is all you have at the time of SHTF event, so be it. It’ll probably be fine. However, it would be much smarter to just get an AR and buy plenty of cheap spare parts.
Firing pins, springs, extractors, pins, detents, etc can all be installed easily and w/o special skills. I keep a spare fully assembled bolt inside the little compartment on my pistol grip. Technically an AR bolt should be headspaced also but 99% of the time they will work regardless and won’t blow up the rifle like a mini or a M1A if not headspaced. You can but the go/no go gauges and learn how to do it though.
None of these scenarios are likely to happen but if we are talking about SHTF you absolutely need spares. The mini is a horrible idea in that regard.
Last Christmas I found a 5802 ruger mini 14 ranch rifle under the tree upon opening the box there was a plastic bag with a complete bolt assembly! Santa/Father had the factory fit a spare bolt assembly. No worries.