"SHTF" is a rather generic term which means different things to different people, so it follows that "SHTF gun" can mean different things to different people too.
That said, I'm a big fan of the Mini-14....but not a fan of recommending one to others when the question of "SHTF" comes up. Mostly because to me, what the question is really asking is "Is an out of the box Mini suitable for use as a combat gun?"....which to me, it aint.
Reason's are:
As-issued, the Mini-14 is not (and never has been) what I'd call a "serious rifle". Close maybe, but no cigar. And that's a shame, because it certainly could have been if it weren't for Ruger having cheaped-out on so many details.
Plus...Mini's have a spare parts problem, meaning that Ruger will not sell bolts, bolt Assy's, firing pins, or individual F/C parts to anyone, not even a gun smith. I understand their reasoning for that, but still, it is what it is.
Spare mags?....yeah, you can presently buy all of the good "factory" mags that you want. But at $25-$40 a pop, how many would you actually want?
On the other hand, most of the design and/or QC problems relative to the Mini not being a serious rifle can be fixed. It is also possible to acquire a stock of spare parts. All it takes is a lot of time, trouble, money and occasional assistance from a good gun smith. :lol: .
DGW...who's been down that road, and more than once.
