"New" (post-2005) Ruger Mini-14 vs. older ones

[zeko]

I've read numerous posts on numerous boards bemoaning the lack of accuracy of Ruger Mini-14s as compared with AR's, Saigas, etc. Does anyone have experience with a Mini-14 made since Ruger retooled in 2005? Better accuracy, same, worse?

Thanks in advance . . .

 

[Gearhead Jim]

Two weeks ago I bought a new mini (580- serial) with the plastic stock. Put a scope on it and did some comparisons with my AR15 that has a similar scope.

50 yds, shooting over the top of my range bag, 55gr USA was about 1.5" for the AR, 2.5" for the Mini. Switching to Win 64 gr SP, the AR gave about 1" and the Mini about 1.25"

I'm impressed, my 3 previous Minis from 15-20 years ago could barely stay on the paper at 100 yds.

Further testing will tell if this gun is really that good, or i just got lucky that day.