Here are three factory variations of the Sturm Ruger Mini-14GB from the 1980s. These rifles came from the factory with a flash hider and bayonet lug set up for the US M-16 rifle bayonet, hence the name GB, for Government Bayonet. They were only available to the Federal, State or local Governments agencies. Some have come on the private market as police agencies traded them in for other rifles.
It takes a careful look to note the rifle on top has a slightly longer stock with less curvature to the butt and the later polymer with aluminum lined heat shield.
The middle gun is the older type, with the shorter, more curved stock and full wooden upper handguard.
The bottom gun has an even shorter barrel, special order variant in stainless steel with factory folding stock.
A full auto model the AC556 was also available.
Various after market companies tried to imitate this set up, so if you are buying a GB know what you are looking at.
It takes a careful look to note the rifle on top has a slightly longer stock with less curvature to the butt and the later polymer with aluminum lined heat shield.
The middle gun is the older type, with the shorter, more curved stock and full wooden upper handguard.
The bottom gun has an even shorter barrel, special order variant in stainless steel with factory folding stock.
A full auto model the AC556 was also available.
Various after market companies tried to imitate this set up, so if you are buying a GB know what you are looking at.