Can't believe I watched an hour long video, about something I've done hundreds of times, that was interesting and informative...You sir, are a master at instruction.
I was thinking the same thing, I've done this plenty of times and the only thing he does different than me is add grease and somehow I still found this video interesting. I have to be honest though, I had to watch this video twice because I fell asleep watching it the first time.
Both my grandpas were war veterans but died when I was very young. This kinda feels like one of them sitting down with me and passing down some serious knowledge.
This is not only the best Mini 14 instructional video I've ever seen, but it also gave me that childhood quality time with Grandpa feeling. Thank you so much sir. God bless.
I liked this video as well. This is the last rifle my grandmother and I went shooting with. He is the one who taught me how to shoot and everything about firearms.
Just like to reiterate - GunBlue is THE youtube gun guy I refer everyone too. No BS, no nonsense, no politics, just knowledge. He's taught me more about guns than I learned on my own in 20 years by cutting through the BS and dropping knowledge. Thanks again! Also, his dog is cute as heck.
I agree...I’ve learned more about this rifle in an hour and 10 minutes than ever expected! Excellent job explaining the process and even better...he’s concerned about us saving our money for our next purchase! 👍🏻😘
Good morning Sir. As the owner of Mini 14 and 30, I appreciate the time and effort you've put into your videos. You are my reference for all things Mini! Subscribed 🙂
I just bought a new Mini-14 and want to thank you for this detailed and very informative video. I now feel confident that I can take care of my Ruger. Well done sir.
I'm in the final stage of deciding whether or not to buy a Mini-14 and needed some info and this guy's video is very detailed and perfect for what I was looking for. Absolutely fantastic information. Love how he broke down every aspect of the Mini-14 in easily understandable terms. And he's hilarious because he's a tinkerer. He can't leave anything alone or factory; he has to tinker with it lol. He reminds me of my brother in that every time he opens a package the first thing he does is disassemble it entirely to see how it works, tinkers with it, then puts it back together. Absolutely hilarious.
I have to say I am 64 yrs young and you sir are very good teacher, it is too bad that we all fall for the advertising schemes on all the cleaning products, I just purchased a new mini 14 and I really enjoyed you instructional video, I feel confident that I can clean my gun without any problem ! Thanks so much for your help...
New Mini 14 owner here and this by far was the most thorough and informative video about how to clean this firearm. Thank you so much, just completed my 1st cleaning with confidence!
Like spending time with my Grandfather. A soothing voice full of knowledge. I always enjoy watching & listening to your videos. Please keep sharing your knowledge with us.
This Gentleman is an ABSOLUTE pleasure to watch, listen and learn from. The genuine nature and high integrity of his character is so refreshing. I immediately subscribed to his channel not only for his impeccable instructions and knowledge he exhibits but also for his character and demeanor. This gentleman is a model of decency, honor and good character and a reminder of what "good people" are. Thank you sir for sharing all that you share and providing the character of a man that others can aspire to emulate. I salute you.
All I can do is add another compliment. This is the voice of experience. He's not some come-lately blowhard simply reiterating what he saw in someone else's video. I learned more about my Mini, and firearms maintenance as a whole.
Listen to his detailed analysis, this guy is more than accurate, but most importantly, Realistic! I’m a proud Mini30 owner, I’m on board with this instructional video.
I'm in my 60's and have seen and read many things. I really don't know how I stumbled on this video, but as retired military, it brought back a lot of memories, some good, some not so much. I wish the younger generation would learn from experience...not believing that the latest, greatest products on the market are superior. Frog Lube vs Mobil 1 and auto grease is a no brainer. Waste your money if you want, but for all the money I've saved over the years, I have a lot more to spend on ammo. Excellent video and thank you for the absolute BEST video I've watched on cleaning a Garrand action!
I bought a used mini14 from a co-worker. The serial # comes back from 2003 manufacture date. With this video I broke the rifle down and found a filthy rifle. It was wet with oil and gritty black dirt inside. He must of sprayed oil into the action. I got all the oil cleaned out and all parts are clean and dry. there was a broken buffer . I am ordering new parts and look forward to shooting the clean mini 14. Great Video. Thank You. Very helpful.
I’ve had my Mini14 for years and I enjoy it to the point I sold my AR and kept my Mini. I have cleaned it many times but watched your video because it’s always good to see someone else’s knowledge and experience. Thank you for sharing.
I have one which I purchased in 1976 and it has" Made in the 200th year of American Liberty" stamped on the side of it. I went to work for the prison system in Arkansas in 1983 and found that they used these guns and they worked great when cleaned properly. I found also that many other agencies have the same guns and the one I have the earlier sights on it, but the company changed them later on the newer ones. My gun is highly accurate and I have killed squirrels and snakes with it. I use to bring my own cleaning kit to work to clean the state guns when I worked in a tower where the guns was kept along with the Remington 870 shotguns.
Best instructional video I have observed on the Ruger Mini 14, detailed with excellent explanations, Thank you sir for sharing your knowledge and experience. Bought my Ruger in 1989 and it still functions great and deadly accurate. Thanks again.
I grew up in New Hampshire so I recognized the accent right away. "If you do it every day, all day long, it's alot simpler..." No wonder this is the most thorough, detailed and informative video I have seen on this gun. There is no substitute for hours, days, and years of experience. After watching this I was able to disassemble, clean and reassemble mine with total confidence and no difficulty. I'm a reader and love detailed instruction manuals, but your video is a must see for anyone who owns an Ruger Mini. Thank you.
Back many years ago, (1968) I learned to clean my firearms from some very serious fellows in the army. Your equipment is better but you recommend the same techniques that they did. OK, they didn't suggest, they directed and demanded. I enjoy my old Mini-14. It feels like a real rifle to me. You have a superb presentation here.
Thank you very much for this video. I think my mini 14 will last much longer thanks to you, I just got it used (1982 model) and had plans on cleaning it and the methods I was about to use would have most likely done more harm than good. I appreciate the history lesson too as well as the tips and tricks. I love this gun!
Amazingly helpful! I am new to the mini 14. Bought a new SS one and have not taken it to the range yet, I've been learning all I can about the mini 14 first. Your video is a gift! Very informative, very interesting! This video should go into the ruger video archive! Thank you for taking the time and effort to share your experience and knowledge!!
This instructional video should be a must watch for all Mini14 owners. Presenter is well spoken and communicates necessary information with detail. Narrative is thorough yet concise. Video visual is very effective and aliged with verbal dictation. Gold standard in "how to" Gun Videos.
It's refreshing to listen to someone who actually knows what they are talking about instead of listening to someone recite memorized wiki sentences. This is a real video, unlike the typical prescribed 10min youtube video done just for monetization.
Good morning Sir Date: 28th Dec 2023 Time 23h54 Thank you so so very much for such a detailed video on this fine firearm. I have purchased the same firearm and have an appointment with my D.F.O. (Designated Firearm Officer) at my local police station on the 05/01/2024 to hand in this and other applications for license to possess a firearm. I will definitely be accessing this video as soon as I receive my license and firearm. I am very impressed at how knowledgeable you are as well as how simplistic you are with the equipment that you use. All the way from South Africa
Sincerely appreciate you taking the time to share your extensive knowledge of this amazing weapon. Very detailed and comprehensive instruction on breakdown, cleaning , lube and reassembly.
I modified my 5 round mags the way he described and it works flawlessly if anyone is worried about doing it. The piece is made of plastic and cuts easily and can be smoothed with a fine file or sandpaper. 👍🏻
You made this so interesting that I watched 1 hour and 10 minutes of something I have done many times i also watched it because I wanted to make sure I have been doing it all the right way. Thank you sir.
I wondered where I left my Kabar pocket knife lol. Actually, I had one just like yours that my children bought at a yard sale for me 35 years ago. Anyway, hello again my friend. You and I spent some of the same time in exotic locales. I’m watching this because I finally bought a rifle like yours (wooden stock). I STILL can’t bring myself to so much as touch an M-16 even after all these years. Honestly, my late brother who was a Deputy Sheriff brought an AR-15 his department assigned him for me to demonstrate how to operate and disassemble one. He knew my feelings, but he also knew that I was the only one around he was comfortable in asking. Again, good to come across one of your older videos. You are one of only a couple of UA-camrs that I truly trust the ability of…despite you being in an entirely different branch lol 🇺🇸
Thank you sir very much for this video. I'm an Army veteran and have owned many firearms, but just got my first 580 series mini 14. After spending an hour with you sir I feel at one with my new rifle. You are amazing. Thank you again. PRO PATRIA VIGILANS
Bought this rifle for my daughter. Her and I will be watching this together. glad you mentioned the oil in the barrel. i always placed about two drops down the barrel and let it flow down. Fantastic job on this. But this a great instructional video.
This is the best video I have seen on the Mini14. I'm new to the Mini14 and was rather intimidated by the job of cleaning it. This makes it look much easier. I have the all-weather model like in this video.
"You don't have to worry about things. Be not afraid." The lines you sling, sometimes it is as if you are speaking directly to me. Most of my local family stopped shooting once my interest in firearms really took hold. Despite all of the crazy content online, I feel confident I can reach out to you for honest guidance. If you ever write a book, I am buying it.
Thank you kindly for sharing your knowledge with the rest of us. I have learned a great deal from watching your channel and I thoroughly enjoy listening to your narratives. You remind me of my grandfather in many ways. Thank you Sir!
You clean the weapon just like my father a WW2 Marine, taught me when I was a kid, refreshing to see the same knowledge in use. A very well done instructional video.
I just rebuilt a much older Mini-14. Nearly the same as this, except that: * The buffer guide rod had a pin and a shoulder, not a flat wedge shape * A rolled tension pin existed as the buffer cross pin instead of the slide pin at 20:00 * There was no bushing as described in 20:20 * I could not replace the bolt unless the firing pin was back all the way Other than these differences, this was a smooth process and this video was an excellent guide.
Very timely video. My Mini 14 has not been fired much and I've just recently gotten interested in it again. Just got set up with a vice and made plywood blocks like you showed in an earlier video. Works great for all kinds of things! I'm back with Hoppes after trying Balistol. It works fine but two of my cats love the smell. Hoppes smell keeps them away.
I love listening to your wisdom. Yes, this video is 6 years old but still very relevant. I just ordered a wood/stainless mini 14 ranch. I can’t wait to shoot and clean it.
Showing some love for the Mini 14! A welcome sight. Thanks for the video. I just bought a Mini 14, and I will be referring to this video often while cleaning it.
Gotta love the Mini 14. Ruger made a Gem in making this. I've had mine little over 15 years. Been offered quite a bit over full price for it a few times with it kitted out with accessories I've put on it but its DEFINITELY the last of all my firearms I'd ever sell or even think about selling.
@RogerChapman I see it's been a few years since you commented but wondering how you liked and what you thought of yours when you got it? And do you still have and shoot regularly? Cool seeing others that are into the Mini 14 and other very similar firearms like myself. Nice pick and hope you've enjoyed it!
Dear Sir; Thank you very much for your very comprehensive answer addressing my question comparing the Ruger mini 14 and 30. Given all factors I think the mini 14 has the edge. You are an excellent source I hope not to lose . All I need now is the money to buy one.
This is truly excellent. Some superb tips that can not be found elsewhere. I am in my 80's and can really relate to the cost cutting suggestions. Thanks for making it.
Great tutorial on the Mini-14 !! It is refreshing to see an in depth detail on the cleaning of the Mini. (Several UA-cams show running a bore snake & hosing down the other parts with a 3 in 1 solution - which is not a good cleaning.) Thanks for sharing your knowledge !!
Thank you for taking the time to do these videos properly. There is alot to be learned from the experience you have to share. Admittedly I have picked up some bad habits that you have addressed in your videos. Thank you for pointing them out and explaining why they are wrong. God bless you and your family
I enjoyed the comments over damaging the barrel crown, I too have always considered you would have to be the "brute force and ignorance" type of person to ever damage a crown, just a little care and thought avoids any chance. I also agree with copper deposits in the bore. I took my mini to the range yesterday and fired around a 150 rounds through it, I was zeroing sights and as a result pausing between shots to make necessary adjustments and then shooting with careful aim firing frequently, but not making like I had a machine gun. Today I cleaned the gun and even though it is new (I did do a few shots and a barrel clean as a sort of barrel break in procedure previously) I could get virtually no copper out of the barrel, barely a hint of the blue green on any patch and the barrel came clean very quickly. Overall I was very surprised how clean running the Mini is, you could certainly fire a lot of rounds before you'd ever have an issue.
Im so happy you made this video--------I learned so much from you on how to clean my Ruger SR1911 and now Mini 14cant wait to watch and learn. Thanks for being an excellent Teacher
I love this guy. And what a great video! If you're into cleaning and maintaining your rifles and actually enjoy the after-shooting TLC, this hour long presentation goes by in a flash. I've watched it before and it feels like it's fifteen minutes long. Peace.
Without a doubt THE BEST VIDEO I've seen on the mini 14. Very thorough along with practical tips along the way. Thanks so much for taking the time to put this video together.
Great vid. Got my mini 14 cleaned and my new Hogue stock swapped on all at the same time. Completely agree with swapping out the factory sights with the tek sight. Thanks for the thorough content.
Nice video. I can actually see what he is doing and how he is cleaning the rifle. This is honestly better than the Ruger video. Thanks for the information, buddy. Keep up the good work.
I’ve been wanting to pick up a mini 14 for a while now and this video sealed the deal. The action doesn’t get anywhere near as dirty as an ar or blowback action.
Such a detailed and well explained video. This should also teach the younger generation that there is nothing better than experience. Pay attention newbies, the world is not all about you and you are not always right. Respect and listen to old timers. They KNOW through experience that you don't have.
GunBlue, good evening. Just got my quart of LSA today. Got a batch from 1990. Using your single drop approach I think this thing will last me a lifetime... LOL. Many thanks again!
I'm glad you touched on the grease. I too am a fan of less is more when it pertains to lube and grease. I worked on a 1911 once that had so much oil in it the slide wouldn't operate.
Great video. Very informative. One thing to note, people I know who have shot on rifle/pistol teams in the military have found that bronze brushes do adversely affect the accuracy of the bore. So, while it may take longer to clean, they only use nylon bore brushes.
That was great. I learned at least 3 new things that will be very valuable in cleaning any of my guns, not only the mini 14. Enjoy your videos very much.
The M1 Carbine also uses the same operating system. Talking about oil in the chamber, back in 1977 I was at a place called Tennelowe outside side of Erlangen, FRG. This was a training area for 1st Armoured Division. There they would shoot the machine guns that were mounted on their tanks. We started out one morning with an M85 .50 Cal. MG that the Tank Comander and his Armorer could not pull the bolt back to clear the weapon. They brought it to me and I mounted it in my vice and made sure that it did not have a live round in the chamber. I put my foot against the back plate and pulled on the charging handle until the round came out. The .50 cal. cartridge had a bulge near the head of the shell so I removed the barrel. The locking lug had separated and was sprung outward from the chamber end of the barrel. I replaced the barrel and sent the armorer back to his unit. I sent two of my troops to reconnoiter their area and watch what the crew was doing when they were loading their ammo onto the tank. They came back and told me that the crew was running the belts of ammo through a bucket with diesel and motor oil in it so the guns would "Shoot harder" (faster). The next M85 that failed came back to me with the barrel off the receiver and had both locking lugs sheared off. Their Sergeant Major came by and wanted to know why his MG's were failing. When I explained that the oil was increasing his chamber pressures he had to be shown. Fortunately I had a Hornady Reloading Manual that addressed that problem. He went back and had them clean all their ammo with Gasoline and and get all traces of oil off of them.
Absolutely fantastic video.I have owned two Mini-14 rifles. My first was a GB model which became illegal to own in California so I traded it for a Stainless Steel 180 model. I added the same rear sight you have on yours but the tall blade front sight on my rifle was now too tall, so I lowered the rear all the way and filed off the front sight to zero the rifle it at 25 yards. The sight company (I forgot the name) makes a replacement front sight that I may order that matches your factory sight with the protective ears. You should mention by installing the new rear sight the scope rings that are included with the Ranch Rifle are now to low. Of course the stock is not designed for scope use and a accessory to raise the cheek weld will be needed.
![Why Won't the Ruger Mini-14 Just Die? [Part 1]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EzyGl_w-IXg/mqdefault.jpg)
![Why Won't the Ruger Mini-14 Just Die? [Part 1]](/img/tr.png)
Can't believe I watched an hour long video, about something I've done hundreds of times, that was interesting and informative...You sir, are a master at instruction.
I was thinking the same thing, I've done this plenty of times and the only thing he does different than me is add grease and somehow I still found this video interesting. I have to be honest though, I had to watch this video twice because I fell asleep watching it the first time.
I watched for the same time and I thought I knew everything about my Mini 14 . I learned a lot .
@@thomaspacyga2653 And I watched it at 1AM knowing I will never get to use the knowledge or the gun ! Still time worth spent listening to GunBlue.
It's like watching grampa in his shop. Soothing.
Almost 2024 and here I am also watching something I've done 100's of times because why not 🇺🇸
Both my grandpas were war veterans but died when I was very young. This kinda feels like one of them sitting down with me and passing down some serious knowledge.
Giampaolo Fini, Same. :)
It’s hard to get this kind of knowledge!
This is not only the best Mini 14 instructional video I've ever seen, but it also gave me that childhood quality time with Grandpa feeling. Thank you so much sir. God bless.
I liked this video as well. This is the last rifle my grandmother and I went shooting with. He is the one who taught me how to shoot and everything about firearms.
Just like to reiterate - GunBlue is THE youtube gun guy I refer everyone too. No BS, no nonsense, no politics, just knowledge. He's taught me more about guns than I learned on my own in 20 years by cutting through the BS and dropping knowledge. Thanks again!
Also, his dog is cute as heck.
This is easily the most detailed break down and cleaning video I've seen for the Mini-14. Well done!
Done by the master himself.
One of the most informative gun videos, top to bottom, I’ve ever watched.
I agree...I’ve learned more about this rifle in an hour and 10 minutes than ever expected! Excellent job explaining the process and even better...he’s concerned about us saving our money for our next purchase! 👍🏻😘
I've been cleaning guns for 50 years, and I've just learned a bunch of things I did not know! Very nice video! Thank you Sir.
I learned to NOT pull the swab back and forth... Good tip.
Good morning Sir.
As the owner of Mini 14 and 30, I appreciate the time and effort you've put into your videos. You are my reference for all things Mini! Subscribed 🙂
I just bought a new Mini-14 and want to thank you for this detailed and very informative video. I now feel confident that I can take care of my Ruger. Well done sir.
As a proud owner of a Mini14 this is the very best instruction to dissasemble and clean it. Thanks very much!
I'm in the final stage of deciding whether or not to buy a Mini-14 and needed some info and this guy's video is very detailed and perfect for what I was looking for. Absolutely fantastic information. Love how he broke down every aspect of the Mini-14 in easily understandable terms. And he's hilarious because he's a tinkerer. He can't leave anything alone or factory; he has to tinker with it lol. He reminds me of my brother in that every time he opens a package the first thing he does is disassemble it entirely to see how it works, tinkers with it, then puts it back together. Absolutely hilarious.
I have to say I am 64 yrs young and you sir are very good teacher, it is too bad that we all fall for the advertising schemes on all the cleaning products, I just purchased a new mini 14 and I really enjoyed you instructional video, I feel confident that I can clean my gun without any problem ! Thanks so much for your help...
Excellent instruction on getting the bolt back in. Now I’m not afraid to take the bolt out anymore.
New Mini 14 owner here and this by far was the most thorough and informative video about how to clean this firearm. Thank you so much, just completed my 1st cleaning with confidence!
Like spending time with my Grandfather. A soothing voice full of knowledge. I always enjoy watching & listening to your videos. Please keep sharing your knowledge with us.
This Gentleman is an ABSOLUTE pleasure to watch, listen and learn from. The genuine nature and high integrity of his character is so refreshing. I immediately subscribed to his channel not only for his impeccable instructions and knowledge he exhibits but also for his character and demeanor. This gentleman is a model of decency, honor and good character and a reminder of what "good people" are. Thank you sir for sharing all that you share and providing the character of a man that others can aspire to emulate. I salute you.
All I can do is add another compliment. This is the voice of experience. He's not some come-lately blowhard simply reiterating what he saw in someone else's video. I learned more about my Mini, and firearms maintenance as a whole.
Listen to his detailed analysis, this guy is more than accurate, but most importantly, Realistic!
I’m a proud Mini30 owner, I’m on board with this instructional video.
I'm in my 60's and have seen and read many things. I really don't know how I stumbled on this video, but as retired military, it brought back a lot of memories, some good, some not so much. I wish the younger generation would learn from experience...not believing that the latest, greatest products on the market are superior. Frog Lube vs Mobil 1 and auto grease is a no brainer. Waste your money if you want, but for all the money I've saved over the years, I have a lot more to spend on ammo. Excellent video and thank you for the absolute BEST video I've watched on cleaning a Garrand action!
I bought a used mini14 from a co-worker.
The serial # comes back from 2003 manufacture date.
With this video I broke the rifle down and found a filthy rifle.
It was wet with oil and gritty black dirt inside. He must of sprayed oil into the
action. I got all the oil cleaned out and all parts are clean and dry.
there was a broken buffer . I am ordering new parts and look forward to shooting the
clean mini 14. Great Video. Thank You. Very helpful.
I’ve had my Mini14 for years and I enjoy it to the point I sold my AR and kept my Mini. I have cleaned it many times but watched your video because it’s always good to see someone else’s knowledge and experience. Thank you for sharing.
This man is a jewel in the firearms community and we love this dude !thanks
I have one which I purchased in 1976 and it has" Made in the 200th year of American Liberty" stamped on the side of it. I went to work for the prison system in Arkansas in 1983 and found that they used these guns and they worked great when cleaned properly. I found also that many other agencies have the same guns and the one I have the earlier sights on it, but the company changed them later on the newer ones. My gun is highly accurate and I have killed squirrels and snakes with it. I use to bring my own cleaning kit to work to clean the state guns when I worked in a tower where the guns was kept along with the Remington 870 shotguns.
Best instructional video I have observed on the Ruger Mini 14, detailed with excellent explanations, Thank you sir for sharing your knowledge and experience. Bought my Ruger in 1989 and it still functions great and deadly accurate. Thanks again.
I just bought a Mini14 today and am so glad I watched this vid. Being a ARMY veteran I so appreciate your block of instructions.
Thank you for the education. I learned a number of things. A Marine from 1967.
I don’t have a Mini 14 but I watched it all the way thru, thanks and God bless you my brother.
I grew up in New Hampshire so I recognized the accent right away. "If you do it every day, all day long, it's alot simpler..." No wonder this is the most thorough, detailed and informative video I have seen on this gun. There is no substitute for hours, days, and years of experience. After watching this I was able to disassemble, clean and reassemble mine with total confidence and no difficulty. I'm a reader and love detailed instruction manuals, but your video is a must see for anyone who owns an Ruger Mini. Thank you.
Back many years ago, (1968) I learned to clean my firearms from some very serious fellows in the army. Your equipment is better but you recommend the same techniques that they did. OK, they didn't suggest, they directed and demanded. I enjoy my old Mini-14. It feels like a real rifle to me. You have a superb presentation here.
Five and a half years later, the video is still great. Thank you, once again, for a great share.
Thank you very much for this video. I think my mini 14 will last much longer thanks to you, I just got it used (1982 model) and had plans on cleaning it and the methods I was about to use would have most likely done more harm than good. I appreciate the history lesson too as well as the tips and tricks. I love this gun!
Amazingly helpful! I am new to the mini 14. Bought a new SS one and have not taken it to the range yet, I've been learning all I can about the mini 14 first.
Your video is a gift! Very informative, very interesting!
This video should go into the ruger video archive!
Thank you for taking the time and effort to share your experience and knowledge!!
This instructional video should be a must watch for all Mini14 owners. Presenter is well spoken and communicates necessary information with detail. Narrative is thorough yet concise. Video visual is very effective and aliged with verbal dictation. Gold standard in "how to" Gun Videos.
Best Mini 14 video on UA-cam. Everything you need to know all in one shot. Thank you. 😎🇺🇸
It's refreshing to listen to someone who actually knows what they are talking about instead of listening to someone recite memorized wiki sentences. This is a real video, unlike the typical prescribed 10min youtube video done just for monetization.
I concur... Hands down one of the best instructional videos I have watched in a long time. Very detailed and informative. Excellent job sir!
Good morning Sir
Date: 28th Dec 2023
Time 23h54
Thank you so so very much for such a detailed video on this fine firearm.
I have purchased the same firearm and have an appointment with my D.F.O. (Designated Firearm Officer) at my local police station on the 05/01/2024 to hand in this and other applications for license to possess a firearm.
I will definitely be accessing this video as soon as I receive my license and firearm.
I am very impressed at how knowledgeable you are as well as how simplistic you are with the equipment that you use.
All the way from South Africa
Sincerely appreciate you taking the time to share your extensive knowledge of this amazing weapon. Very detailed and comprehensive instruction on breakdown, cleaning , lube and reassembly.
I know this is an old video, but this has got to be the best mini teardown and explanation video I have ever seen. Thankyou for the great video.
I like your non-nonsense, informative presentation. This video goes beyond being interesting: It's a reference work.
"The military way of doing it has always been most efficient" You don't hear that every day!! Great video thank you!
I modified my 5 round mags the way he described and it works flawlessly if anyone is worried about doing it.
The piece is made of plastic and cuts easily and can be smoothed with a fine file or sandpaper. 👍🏻
I just did the same. Cut with side clippers and used my pocket knife to smooth the plastic.
You made this so interesting that I watched 1 hour and 10 minutes of something I have done many times i also watched it because I wanted to make sure I have been doing it all the right way.
Thank you sir.
I wondered where I left my Kabar pocket knife lol. Actually, I had one just like yours that my children bought at a yard sale for me 35 years ago. Anyway, hello again my friend. You and I spent some of the same time in exotic locales. I’m watching this because I finally bought a rifle like yours (wooden stock). I STILL can’t bring myself to so much as touch an M-16 even after all these years. Honestly, my late brother who was a Deputy Sheriff brought an AR-15 his department assigned him for me to demonstrate how to operate and disassemble one. He knew my feelings, but he also knew that I was the only one around he was comfortable in asking. Again, good to come across one of your older videos. You are one of only a couple of UA-camrs that I truly trust the ability of…despite you being in an entirely different branch lol 🇺🇸
Thank you sir very much for this video. I'm an Army veteran and have owned many firearms, but just got my first 580 series mini 14. After spending an hour with you sir I feel at one with my new rifle. You are amazing. Thank you again. PRO PATRIA VIGILANS
Greatest Mini 14 maintenance video in the history of UA-cam.
Awesome vid! I sat and watched this while cleaning my own Mini and followed right along. Wish there were more like this for other firearms.
The best description of how to clean anM-14 oops mini 14 I ever heard or saw..Thank you Sir
You sir, are a master. Hopefully there is someone in your life who you are passing your knowledge onto. God bless you.
Bought this rifle for my daughter. Her and I will be watching this together. glad you mentioned the oil in the barrel. i always placed about two drops down the barrel and let it flow down. Fantastic job on this. But this a great instructional video.
This is the best video I have seen on the Mini14. I'm new to the Mini14 and was rather intimidated by the job of cleaning it. This makes it look much easier. I have the all-weather model like in this video.
The best instructor ever great step by step on how to break down and clean. My mini now functions like it should
That was the best gun cleaning video I’ve ever seen. I feel like I should have paid for that level of info. This guy is a wealth of knowledge
"You don't have to worry about things. Be not afraid."
The lines you sling, sometimes it is as if you are speaking directly to me. Most of my local family stopped shooting once my interest in firearms really took hold. Despite all of the crazy content online, I feel confident I can reach out to you for honest guidance.
If you ever write a book, I am buying it.
Some folks are just outstanding teachers/instructors and you sir are one of those people. Thank You for this video. BRAVO!
Thank you kindly for sharing your knowledge with the rest of us. I have learned a great deal from watching your channel and I thoroughly enjoy listening to your narratives. You remind me of my grandfather in many ways. Thank you Sir!
Thank you for passing down your valuable knowledge.
Love this video, feel like I’m sitting down with my father as a kid in his gun room; good memories, thanks.
I enjoy your videos very much and I always learn a lot. You do a fine job at explaining and you never over use cleaning oils. You keep it simple.
I never get tired of his videos, learn something evertime.
You did a great job of breaking down the operation and cleaning of the Mini-14. Really enjoy your videos.
Thanks very much for this detailed explanation! So much better than any of the other videos I watched. The bolt explanation was really helpful.
You clean the weapon just like my father a WW2 Marine, taught me when I was a kid, refreshing to see the same knowledge in use. A very well done instructional video.
Weapon?
Best takedown and cleaning video of the Ruger Mini 14 platform. Thanks a bunch!
I just rebuilt a much older Mini-14. Nearly the same as this, except that:
* The buffer guide rod had a pin and a shoulder, not a flat wedge shape
* A rolled tension pin existed as the buffer cross pin instead of the slide pin at 20:00
* There was no bushing as described in 20:20
* I could not replace the bolt unless the firing pin was back all the way
Other than these differences, this was a smooth process and this video was an excellent guide.
I cleaned my Mini a while back. It took me at least 30 minutes to remove the boat and probably an hour to reassemble it. You make it look so easy.
Ken Johnson
"...boat..."
* bolt
Autocorrect don't ...
Very timely video. My Mini 14 has not been fired much and I've just recently gotten interested in it again. Just got set up with a vice and made plywood blocks like you showed in an earlier video. Works great for all kinds of things! I'm back with Hoppes after trying Balistol. It works fine but two of my cats love the smell. Hoppes smell keeps them away.
I love listening to your wisdom. Yes, this video is 6 years old but still very relevant. I just ordered a wood/stainless mini 14 ranch. I can’t wait to shoot and clean it.
Great tip for the extra rounds in the flush magazines.
My testing shows that the wood stocked model is much more accurate than the polymer version. Check out that comparison video.
@@GunBlue490 thanks, I just watched that video.
I've gone through several videos and for sure your information is the best presented with quality details. Well done and thank you.
Thank you for taking the time for all of us. This video is one of the best that I've seen and I'm sure that I'll watch it again.
Showing some love for the Mini 14! A welcome sight. Thanks for the video. I just bought a Mini 14, and I will be referring to this video often while cleaning it.
Gotta love the Mini 14. Ruger made a Gem in making this. I've had mine little over 15 years. Been offered quite a bit over full price for it a few times with it kitted out with accessories I've put on it but its DEFINITELY the last of all my firearms I'd ever sell or even think about selling.
@RogerChapman I see it's been a few years since you commented but wondering how you liked and what you thought of yours when you got it? And do you still have and shoot regularly? Cool seeing others that are into the Mini 14 and other very similar firearms like myself. Nice pick and hope you've enjoyed it!
3 years later, how are you enjoying your Mini-14? Would you recommend it?
Dear Sir; Thank you very much for your very comprehensive answer addressing my question comparing the Ruger mini 14 and 30. Given all factors I think the mini 14 has the edge. You are an excellent source I hope not to lose . All I need now is the money to buy one.
This is truly excellent. Some superb tips that can not be found elsewhere. I am in my 80's and can really relate to the cost cutting suggestions. Thanks for making it.
One of the BEST,if not the BEST FIREARMS CHANNEL I've ever seen!!!
Great video, thank you sir. I'm not very skilled at mechanical things, so I'll watch it a few times before I attempt cleaning my rifle. God Bless you.
Thank you, sir! Your informative, thorough, and detailed instructions are most welcome and much appreciated.
Great tutorial on the Mini-14 !! It is refreshing to see an in depth detail on the cleaning of the
Mini. (Several UA-cams show running a bore snake & hosing down the other parts with a 3 in 1
solution - which is not a good cleaning.) Thanks for sharing your knowledge !!
Just wanted to say that this video was a big help with my new mini. Thank you again for your expertise and easy to understand videos.
Thank you for taking the time to do these videos properly. There is alot to be learned from the experience you have to share. Admittedly I have picked up some bad habits that you have addressed in your videos. Thank you for pointing them out and explaining why they are wrong. God bless you and your family
I enjoyed the comments over damaging the barrel crown, I too have always considered you would have to be the "brute force and ignorance" type of person to ever damage a crown, just a little care and thought avoids any chance.
I also agree with copper deposits in the bore. I took my mini to the range yesterday and fired around a 150 rounds through it, I was zeroing sights and as a result pausing between shots to make necessary adjustments and then shooting with careful aim firing frequently, but not making like I had a machine gun. Today I cleaned the gun and even though it is new (I did do a few shots and a barrel clean as a sort of barrel break in procedure previously) I could get virtually no copper out of the barrel, barely a hint of the blue green on any patch and the barrel came clean very quickly. Overall I was very surprised how clean running the Mini is, you could certainly fire a lot of rounds before you'd ever have an issue.
Im so happy you made this video--------I learned so much from you on how to clean my Ruger SR1911 and now Mini 14cant wait to watch and learn. Thanks for being an excellent Teacher
I love this guy. And what a great video! If you're into cleaning and maintaining your rifles and actually enjoy the after-shooting TLC, this hour long presentation goes by in a flash. I've watched it before and it feels like it's fifteen minutes long.
Peace.
Without a doubt THE BEST VIDEO I've seen on the mini 14. Very thorough along with practical tips along the way. Thanks so much for taking the time to put this video together.
Great vid. Got my mini 14 cleaned and my new Hogue stock swapped on all at the same time. Completely agree with swapping out the factory sights with the tek sight. Thanks for the thorough content.
Nice video. I can actually see what he is doing and how he is cleaning the rifle. This is honestly better than the Ruger video. Thanks for the information, buddy. Keep up the good work.
I’ve been wanting to pick up a mini 14 for a while now and this video sealed the deal. The action doesn’t get anywhere near as dirty as an ar or blowback action.
Such a detailed and well explained video. This should also teach the younger generation that there is nothing better than experience. Pay attention newbies, the world is not all about you and you are not always right. Respect and listen to old timers. They KNOW through experience that you don't have.
GunBlue, good evening. Just got my quart of LSA today. Got a batch from 1990. Using your single drop approach I think this thing will last me a lifetime... LOL. Many thanks again!
I'm glad you touched on the grease. I too am a fan of less is more when it pertains to lube and grease. I worked on a 1911 once that had so much oil in it the slide wouldn't operate.
Excellent video, thank you for this level of detail. Not many people do this great a job with their how to videos.
Excellent and precise. Greatly enjoyed it as a novice with first time purchase of the Mini 300.
Great video. Very informative. One thing to note, people I know who have shot on rifle/pistol teams in the military have found that bronze brushes do adversely affect the accuracy of the bore. So, while it may take longer to clean, they only use nylon bore brushes.
thank you for the video sir, this is my first gun and I had no idea how to maintain it.
Thank you sir I appreciate the tips for properly cleaning and use of cheaper gun lubricants I’ve been around since 1956 and never used those thanks
That was great. I learned at least 3 new things that will be very valuable in cleaning any of my guns, not only the mini 14. Enjoy your videos very much.
"Bronze Bristle Brush " ...is it just me? I can listen to you say this a hundred times and still enjoy it.
This is the most informative video I have ever seen.
Thank you so much for being so detailed.
This is a terrific video. Thank you for sharing your expertise on the Mini 14 as well as all the other miscellaneous tips in the video.
The M1 Carbine also uses the same operating system. Talking about oil in the chamber, back in 1977 I was at a place called Tennelowe outside side of Erlangen, FRG. This was a training area for 1st Armoured Division. There they would shoot the machine guns that were mounted on their tanks. We started out one morning with an M85 .50 Cal. MG that the Tank Comander and his Armorer could not pull the bolt back to clear the weapon. They brought it to me and I mounted it in my vice and made sure that it did not have a live round in the chamber. I put my foot against the back plate and pulled on the charging handle until the round came out. The .50 cal. cartridge had a bulge near the head of the shell so I removed the barrel. The locking lug had separated and was sprung outward from the chamber end of the barrel. I replaced the barrel and sent the armorer back to his unit. I sent two of my troops to reconnoiter their area and watch what the crew was doing when they were loading their ammo onto the tank. They came back and told me that the crew was running the belts of ammo through a bucket with diesel and motor oil in it so the guns would "Shoot harder" (faster). The next M85 that failed came back to me with the barrel off the receiver and had both locking lugs sheared off. Their Sergeant Major came by and wanted to know why his MG's were failing. When I explained that the oil was increasing his chamber pressures he had to be shown. Fortunately I had a Hornady Reloading Manual that addressed that problem. He went back and had them clean all their ammo with Gasoline and and get all traces of oil off of them.
Absolutely fantastic video.I have owned two Mini-14 rifles. My first was a GB model which became illegal to own in California so I traded it for a Stainless Steel 180 model. I added the same rear sight you have on yours but the tall blade front sight on my rifle was now too tall, so I lowered the rear all the way and filed off the front sight to zero the rifle it at 25 yards. The sight company (I forgot the name) makes a replacement front sight that I may order that matches your factory sight with the protective ears. You should mention by installing the new rear sight the scope rings that are included with the Ranch Rifle are now to low. Of course the stock is not designed for scope use and a accessory to raise the cheek weld will be needed.