I get so tired of hearing the AR-15 elitists talk about what an uber rifle the AR-15 is and how bad Mini-14s suck.
A lot of it isn't elitism as much as it is wanting a higher-precision rifle, which the Mini is definitely not. It is what it is: a ranch gun. It works like an American AK-47. It isn't made nor known for superb accuracy.
At 100 yards I cannot tell a big difference in accuracy in a Mini-14. The AR might be a touch more accurate but not much.
Post groups and elaborate on what you consider "a touch more" or "not much". A 1/2" difference is usually considered a big difference. For example, I hear that the average Ruger group is around 3-4 inches. I hear of M4gery carbine owners getting a typical 1.5-2" out-of-box or so if they do their part. Big difference, especially if the degree of accuracy holds consistent at longer ranges, where it is comparing a 3-4" group to a 6-8" group.
- ARs cost significantly more.
You can find them for $550-750; thats around the cost of a Mini. If you want a high-end precision rifle or something strong enough to go out into middleofthefreakingharshdesertistan or use as a bullet hose in a carbine class, then sure: you'll end up spending around $1100-2600
- ARs are far pickier about ammo than a Mini-14. Yes I can shoot Wolf, Brown Bear, and the more expensive brass stuff as well.
So can my AR. It just smells bad, takes longer to clean, and MAY wear out a $3 piece after awhile. I generally don't shoot it because it sucks for accuracy, though.
- The Mini-14 has an action based on the M1 Garand (a very proven action)
Direct Impingement has been the way our standard issue weapons operates for nearly fifty years. It seems to be very proven as well - if not even more proven.
- Mini-14s are definitely more durable with the ARs plastic construction.
Sure, the Ruger can survive a jettison across a ravine much better than an AR. The AR may crack a plastic handguard, bust the grip, or crack the buffer tube. But my question here is: do you like to jettison your firearms into and over ravines? Do you think that your Ruger is subjected to and tolerates more beating and use than an AR can take? The AR does not break if you simply drop it or if the wind hits it the wrong way.
- Mini-14s can be cleaned and oiled with anything, ARs users fuss over lubricants and solvents
an AR can be cleaned by anything as well. It's just that it is generally valued for its precision, and therefore it makes more sense to use better lubricants. I however have an AR I built in accordance to the milspec chart/TDP standards, and I just use cheapo CLP for it. It works fine.
- Mini-14 are gas piston while ARs are the dirtier DI variety, after I fire 100 rounds in my Mini the bolt and bolt carrier are still clean.
...so? ARs aren't as finicky as you think. I haven't cleaned mine in about 400 rounds. No problems, no permanent damage, no worries of it bursting into flames, etc.
Seriously, logistics and modernization aside, do you think our military would have kept the platform around if it didn't work?
To all the AR folks, if you wish to spend $500 more on a rifle that is your prerogative. AR folks feel the need to justify their purchase by bashing other peoples rifles.
We don't bash the Ruger for being a bad rifle; we bash it for being a bad rifle for our needs or purpose. A lot of it isn't bashing as much as it is telling the truth. I personally do not like the Ruger because I can get a more accurate gun for the same price to suit my shooting wants and needs. Sorry if we offended you or the Mini.