Mini 14 Enhancements

[lumbering.buffalo]

I have a '78 or '79 Mini (wooden heat shield). Bought it NIB, but I have less than 5 rounds through it because when I did shoot it I was disappointed in the results. Could of been me though.

I would like to enhance it so that it becomes a decent self-defense and MOC (mean of coyote) gun. Make it look a little cooler as well. Is it worth putting the money into or should I just sell it off and find a newer one? If I was to enhance it who would it worth investigating to do the work?

I guess I would like to keep the wooden heat shield (may not be practical). I would want to upgrade the sights and maybe replace the barrel (or re-bed the one I have). The more I write the louder the cash register sound is getting.

Anyway looking for some advice from Mini owners.

Thanks.

 

[gunman42782]

http://www.greatwestgunsmithing.com/

 

[DGW1949]

http://www.greatwestgunsmithing.com/

I'll second that.

DGW

 

[Voyager28]

Personally, I would sell the 180 series rifle and buy a newer 580 series. Yes, with some work, you can make a 180 more accurate and stable. But, the exact same work will make a 580 series MUCH better. At least that has been my experience.

If you are looking to make a Coyote getter, you are probably looking at some rangy shots, sometimes 150-200 yards plus. That's a bit much for the best I ever got with a 180 series mini. However, my 580 mini Rancher is an entirely different story. I only did a few very minor mods to my 580 and ended up with a very good mid range hunting rifle. 1) I put in a reduced size gas bushing. 2) I installed a recoil buffer. 3) Mounted a 3-9X42 Redfield Battle Zone Scope. The result? Well a picture is better that words so here is a photo of a group I shot at 200 yards.



Bob

 

[groberts]

There are at least two companies that make a stabilizer that attaches to the barrel and gas block for around $100. You can do the work yourself.

 

[Voyager28]

There are at least two companies that make a stabilizer that attaches to the barrel and gas block for around $100. You can do the work yourself.

You can do a reduced size gas bushing and a recoil buffer for less than $50. Mini's are notoriously over gassed and slam the operating rod back with far more force than needed. Ever notice your brass landing 50' plus away from you? Ever had your rear sight vibrate loose or maybe even fall off? Also, the amount of force exerted on the operating rod often makes the bolt come in contact with the rear of the receiver when cycling. Over time, this cannot do it any good.

Reducing the size of the gas bushing (about a 30 minute job with plenty of videos on Youtube to show you how) will greatly reduce the amount of gas passed through the gas block and onto the gas piston making the entire operating cycle much more gentle. I used a .045 bushing but could probably have gone with a .040. Vibration and harmonics are GREATLY reduced as is stress and wear.

Installing a recoil buffer will slightly reduce the length of operating rod travel and prevent the bolt from contacting the rear of the receiver also reducing stress, vibration, harmonics and possible damage.

That's all I did to mine and it shoots as sweet as an old maid's kiss and at 200 yards, is more than acceptably accurate as is evidenced by the photo I posted a bit earlier.

Bob