Ruger Mini-14
The Mini-14 is a lightweight semi-automatic rifle manufactured by Sturm, Ruger & Co. Introduced in 1973, the design was outwardly based on the M14 rifle and is, in appearance, a scaled-down version chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO, though with its own gas system design.
| Mini-14 | |
|---|---|
The Mini-14 Government Barrel with sling | |
| Type | |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1974–present |
| Used by | See Users |
| Wars | Rhodesian Bush War The Troubles Militias-Comando Vermelho conflict |
| Production history | |
| Designer | L. James Sullivan, William B. Ruger |
| Designed | 1967–1973 |
| Manufacturer | Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| Produced | 1973–present |
| Variants | See Variants |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 2.9 kg (6.4 lb) |
| Length | Model 5816: 965 mm (38.0 in) |
| Barrel length | 330–559 mm (13.0–22.0 in) |
| Cartridge | |
| Action | Gas-operated short-stroke fixed piston, rotating bolt |
| Rate of fire | Semi-automatic mode: 40 rounds/min Full-automatic mode (AC-556 variant): 750 rounds/min |
| Muzzle velocity | 3240 ft/s (990 m/s) |
| Effective firing range | 200 yd (180 m) |
| Feed system | 5- to 30-round factory box magazine |
| Sights | Iron sights |
Since 1973, Ruger has introduced several variants, including variants chambered in both .223 Remington and 5.56×45mm NATO, the Ranch Rifle with a civilian style rear aperture sight and integral scope ring mounts on the receiver, the Mini-14 GB with a bayonet lug and flash suppressor, variants with folding stocks, stainless steel versions of the most popular variants, a target version featuring a heavyweight barrel and barrel tuner, the Mini Thirty, which is chambered for 7.62×39mm, as well as variants chambered in 6.8mm Remington SPC and .300 AAC Blackout. The rifle is currently used by military personnel, law-enforcement and corrections personnel, and civilians in the United States and around the world.