Walter Rego
Single-Sixer
I have decided that a Mini 14 would be a useful firearm to have. I understand that the 180 series and above are greatly improved over the originals. I have looked at a used 195 series gun in excellent shape for a reasonable price (for California anyway). It is marked .223 caliber. That would put the production era between 1996-1999. I'm guessing it is a Ranch Rifle as it has a wood stock with plastic ventilated handguard and the top of the receiver is grooved for Ruger scope rings like my old M77R.
A few questions:
A few questions:
- I understand the more current production guns are chambered in 5.56 rather than .223. Is this just a change in chamber dimensions or does it also involve the rifling characteristics like twist rate that would affect accuracy?
- As far as ammo availability, is .223 more readily available or less expensive than 5.56 ?
- At what series were the accuracy issues that Mini 14's had resolved ?
- I have read of the caution about firing 5.56mm rounds in a .223 chamber but also read that older Ruger Mini 14 guns had chamber and throat dimensions that were safe for 5.56 rounds as opposed to most bolt action sporters chambered for .223. Is that true ?
- Would a 195 Series Mini 14 be "one of the good ones" or should I hold out for a newer production version ?