Semiautomatic rifles are an indispensable part of most American gun aficionados arsenal. Bill Ruger, as a skilled manufacturer and marketer of firearms, realized Americans were leaning towards auto-loaders. He also saw the added love for the military-style rifles used to keep Americans safe from various enemies.
Releasing handguns and rifles that mimicked the classic military guns popular at the time, Ruger had enormous commercial success. The Mini-14, styled after the M14, was no exception.
In fact, the Mini-14 could easily have become the military’s choice as a successor to the M14. But the Mini 14 first went into production in 1974, which was bad timing to sell it to the Pentagon. Regardless, the rifle gained popularity with shooters of all levels who prefer the looks and ergonomics of the traditional style of the rifle.
You can make some great alterations and innovations to this rifle. The aftermarket parts for it are on the same level as the 10/22 or AR-15. The only limit is your wallet. Let’s look at some of the upgrades you might want to make.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Mini 14 Upgrades and Accessories
Comparison of the Best Mini 14 Accessories and Upgrades
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Why You Should Give Your Mini 14 a Makeover
Due to its size, capacity, caliber, and ruggedness, the Mini 14 is widely used for hunting, competitions, and defense, especially in the countryside. Upgrading it has several benefits that can’t be disregarded. Such as;
Mini 14 (Source)
Better Accuracy
Upgrading to a better trigger, adjustable gas block, and scopes/sights largely improve the accuracy of a Mini 14. The rifle is often used for hunting because of its .223 cartridge. So having a Mini 14 with better accuracy is definitely of some help to the shooter.
Tactical Advantage
The use of add-ons like mounts, rails, bipods, bipod adapters, and high-capacity mags give the shooter a tactical advantage for using the rifle under different situations. The rifle becomes more effective and usable under different circumstances with such additions. For example, adding rails lets you mount scopes, lights, and lasers.
Handling
Adding upgrades like slings, modified lightweight stocks, recoil pads, and mag pouches aid with the handling of the rifle. The Mini 14 is not a lightweight rifle and the weight really matters when you are carrying the rifle across the woods on a hunting trip.
Ruger Mini-14 Archangel Sparta Stock
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The rail has been secured by steel grommets which don’t strip out under sheer pressure. The stock fits all mini-14 and mini-30 models manufactured after 1982 and is exceptionally easy to install. The adjustable stock and cheek riser are quite helpful. Plus the grip storage compartment is also liked by buyers.
Why It Stands Out To Us
This is by far the best tactical stock available on the market for the Mini-14. It fits both the 14 and 30 models, and allows you to convert your simple mini-14 into a deadly tactical weapon. You cannot ask for anything more from your Mini-14 after you’ve installed this stock.
If you want to update your Mini 14 for the 21st century, this stock is a great option. First, this stock is composed of space-age Zytel with a carbon fiber core for extreme durability, weather resistance, and lightness. One thing that every modern semi-auto rifle or carbine needs is a full-length top rail. Pro Mag has even thought to ensure that the rail’s height off the bore is identical to that on a standard AR-15, making it much easier for most shooters to get accustomed to whatever sighting option they choose.
The fore-end is molded to accept two additional lengths of rail with only minor drilling needed. The stock has four hard points for quick detach sling mounts. Other modern conveniences include a pistol grip and an adjustable length of pull, two things anyone accustomed to most modern semi-autos is loathe to live without.
Just to make sure that absolutely all the bases have been covered. It even comes with an adjustable cheek rise, a collapsible buttstock, and a removable recoil pad. The Sparta stock is made in the USA.
Who Will Use This Most
The stock is best suited for home defense, tactical uses, and hunting. The storage grip compartment allows you to carry extra stuff for your hunting and camping trips. Plus the adjustable cheek weld and LOP is also quite helpful to make it a subsidiary tactical rifle. People who like to brag about their guns can also use it for the purpose of aesthetics.
Bottom Line
The Archangel Sparta is by far the best stock upgrade for the Mini series rifles on the market. It converts a simple ranch weapon into a deadly tactical rifle. Consider its function and price, it is the best upgrade you can get for your mini-14.
This is an incredible stock. Pro Mag has thought of pretty much everything and implemented it well. Whether you have a Mini-14 or even a Mini-30, this is a great choice to upgrade your carbine for the 21st Century.
Adjustable Gas Block
Many shooters complain about Mini’s lack of serious competitive accuracy, and the reason often lies in the gas block. This problem can be easily solved by purchasing a reduced-size gas bushing or an adjustable gas block.
Though replacing a gas bushing is a much less expensive process, real connoisseurs opt for an adjustable gas block. This helps reduce the violence of cycling, decreases shock to the scope, and controls the distance that ejected empty cases are thrown. As an added benefit, this accessory is convenient if you load your own ammo and want to tune your rifle to the specific load.
Adjustable Gas Block
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The gas block reduces vibrations to a significant level and prevents the optics from getting knocked off. Plus it allows you to adjust the pressures so the brass falls close to you and not too far(which is an issue with the mini-14). It improves accuracy and works flawlessly even with cheap ammunition. However, some cutting or fitting might be required with certain models.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It is a Gen 4 adjustable gas block which allows you to adjust from no-cycling for single-shot operation to wide-open shooting. It also has a positive click adjustment knob which prevents it from moving out of adjustment. The sling swivel stud is also a good addition. In fact, it serves the maximum number of uses for an adjustable gas block.
For taming down the cycling action and regulating gas pressure for different loads, the adjustable gas block from Accuracy Systems is superb hardware for Ruger Mini 14 and Mini 30. This Gen 4 adjustable gas block will improve accuracy by reducing the harmonics of the guide/operating rod.
As an updated model Gen 4, this gas block sports a newly-designed positive click adjustment knob so it cannot turn out of adjustment. The device is made from 7075 aircraft grade alloy and comes with a sling swivel stud.
Who Will Use This Most
The gas block is useful for practically anybody. However, tactical, competitive shooters and hunters will get the most out of it. Due to its multifaceted capabilities, the gas block not only improves accuracy but also improves the handling of chores associated with shooting.
Bottom Line
This Gen 4 adjustable gas block is the most feature-packed and effective gas block to be mounted to any mini-14 or mini-30. The gas block will not only improve the accuracy of the weapon but also help you with switching shooting modes.
Picatinny Rail Mount
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This rail gives the mini-14 a standard picatinny rail, which is made from high military-grade materials and is quite easy to mount and dismount. The rail stays perfectly in place and holds zero. The six inches of rail space offers space to mount an optic appropriate for the mini-14.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The very first thing to notice is the quality and durability of this rail. It attaches firmly to the weapon, and has a total of 14 slots to offer ample space for mounting scopes. Additionally, the rail need not be dismounted while removing the bolt for field stripping.
One thing that the Mini-14 woefully lacks when compared to most contemporary semi-auto rifles or carbines is a single slot mounting rail. Luckily GG&G has a way of rectifying this situation without making radical and costly changes to your firearm. This Picatinny rail clamps to the notches on the receiver for accepting the factory scope rings, no gunsmithing required.
With that trade-off you get 5.7 inches, that is, 14 slots of rail to adjust the eye relief of your scope to your liking or attach an alternative such as a low-profile reflex sight. One nice feature is that installation of this rail does not require the removal of the rear sight, although it does block it. Carefully designed relief cuts have been machined out of the underside of the rail to allow for unimpeded shell ejection. The 6061 Aluminum material is the same used on NASA spacecrafts. This rail is manufactured in the U.S.A. and is covered by a lifetime warranty.
Who Will Use This Most
Anybody who needs a scope on the mini-14 can use this rail mount. But since scopes are more common with hunters and target shooters, this rail is more likely to be used by them. Having a good quality picatinny rail on your mini-14 is certainly a good idea. No matter what you use the gun for.
Bottom Line
Drag your Mini-14 into the 21st century with this Picatinny rail mount. The rail has been meticulously designed to be sturdy, and prevent any ejection issues with the rifle. It is easy to mount/dismount and holds zero steadily even under extreme maneuvers and rattling.
It is ideal for red dot sights in particular due to the low-profile design. The best feature of this rail mount is simply the ingenious design that allows it to be attached to the gun with no gunsmithing. Of course, the fact that it is made in the U.S.A. and covered by a lifetime warranty make this a worry-free purchase.
Trigger
The Mini 14 is not as accurate as an AR-15, and this is mostly due to the Ruger's two-stage Garand-style trigger. We don’t recommend that you simply to switch the old one with a new replacement unit. Instead go for Accuracy Systems Inc. entire trigger enhancement.
Mini 14 Trigger
You can send your trigger group to this vendor to turn it into a smooth operation - as good as a target rifle. The reworked trigger makes a world of difference, giving you the crisp and lightest 3.5 lb. to 4 lb. pull weight possible compared to the long and creep-prone factory trigger.
Other trigger improvements include a wider trigger pad that provides a noticeable reduction in trigger pull weight. Another is an over-travel stop screw to limit the distance the trigger travels after it has been pulled. The Accuracy Systems trigger job is not cheap, but it brings the Mini 14 closer to being a tack driver, with shooting groups in the 1"-1.5" range.
Magazine
For years, Ruger only offered its proprietary 20 and 30-round magazines through law enforcement channels. The company’s policy spurred the production of a variety of aftermarket magazines. Nowadays, one factory package includes two 20-round magazines with the rifle, and Ruger branded 30 round magazines are available.
However, in the meantime shooters were looking for the more affordable high capacity mags and PRO MAG released their line of steel 10-, 20- and 30-rounders.
PRO MAG - Ruger Mini-14 Magazine 223/5.56
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to recent reviews, these magazines work flawlessly with the mini-14, with zero feeding issues. The magazine is lightweight and durable enough to withstand tampering and abuse for quite some time. Plus, the low price is also a good selling factor, since it allows you to purchase more magazines on a budget.
Why it Stands Out to Us?
The magazine has block-shaped grooves on the lower surface, which makes it easy to grip, even under sweaty/wet conditions. Plus the affordable price is also a differentiating factor. Additionally, the magazine is covered by a full-replacement lifetime warranty, so it is a complete win-win for the buyer.
These mags are available in both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO. They feature a heat-treated, carbon steel body with self-lubricating, polycarbonate follower. Also, the mags have a removable base plate that enables easy disassembly for cleaning. Some shooters advise using the "rock-and-lock" way of insertion. They say these magazines will only cycle if the operator hits the bottom back of the magazine hard with his hand after insertion but, otherwise they’re a great choice.
Who Will Use This Most
The magazine is best suited for competition, range/practice, and self-defense. Due to their affordability and design material, you can carry multiple mags with you. Plus, the 20 round capacity makes it a good self-defense weapon magazine for some extra firepower.
Bottom Line
The Promag magazine for Ruger Mini-14 is a lightweight, affordable, and flawless piece of equipment for your rifle. It offers a good grip and can be disassembled with ease for cleaning and maintenance. The chrome-silicon spring doesn’t fracture/deform under the influence of moisture or pressure and can be kept loaded.
Sling
While the Mini 14 comes with an M1 Carbine cotton sling, the market is flooded with large quantities that go from downright junk to high-quality steer hide. There are even some exact reproductions of the M1907 Military sling.
Mini 14 Sling
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The users of this sling seem quite impressed by its leather construction and quality. The leather used is a bit elastic and is durable enough to withstand the weight of the rifle under normal conditions. However, you might consider oiling the sling with any laxative before adding it to your rifle.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It is an exact replica of the standard military sling, and has been made from the best quality materials and procedures to ensure strength and durability. The sling is not as simple as nylon ones, and has some aesthetic features. Plus, the sling is quite easy to adjust and retains it's position.
One high-quality sling, made of premium leather, is Brownell’s Competitor Plus rifle sling, 1907 reproduction. It’s true to the original in every respect. This superbly functional, 54" front strap increases usable length while maintaining the high level of comfort and mobility associated with leather.
The Competitor Plus is a little thicker, and maybe a little "beefier" looking compared to rivals. It has a few features that possibly make it a better competition sling. The Brownell’s sling is 1 1/4'' wide and it comes with forged, extra-tough, steel hooks attached with three rivets. This makes it a fine sling for carrying and shooting.
Who Will Use This Most
This sling is ideal for hunters using the Mini-14. The sling may be used by competition shooters, however, it is not a very good idea. The sling being durable, lightweight, and adjustable allows a hunter to carry the weapon all day long with ease on his/her shoulders.
Bottom Line
This leather sling is a useful addition to the mini-14 since the rifle is mostly used for ranching and hunting. The sling is quite beautiful and sturdy enough to last a lifetime. The hooks and rivets have been properly embedded and positioned to give you the best sling for the job.
Ammo Pouch
Easy access to your ammo is definitely a quality-of-life improvement. Having a quality ammo pouch that won’t get in your way is key. You want one that’s tough and long-lasting. It doesn’t hurt either if it helps your rifle to look great, too.
Mini 14 Ammo Pouch
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The quality of this ammo pouch is quite decent. Plus the pouch is ambidextrous which is an advantage for some shooters. The laces are elastic and have plastic keepers, which can be adjusted to attach it firmly to the rifle. The cheek pad is quite helpful, and the pouch can be used with many other weapons.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The ammo pouch improves the tactical ability of your Mini-14 by letting you carry one or two extra mags. This pouch fits snug on the stock and can be carried with other gear using the D-rings and Molle straps. Comparing with its price, this ammo pouch delivers amazing value for money.
Tacbro’s Tactical Magazine Pouch is great for giving your Mini 14 or 30 a more tactical high-speed look. It provides the shooter with a readily-accessible spare magazine that's always with the weapon. This pouch with its adapter for rifle buttstocks was designed to hold one 20- or 30- round magazine of either .223 or 7.62x39 on the offside of the buttstock. A highly-valuable feature of this pouch is that is completely ambidextrous and features a bungee retention strap to hold the magazine in place securely.
This magazine pouch is made of heavy-duty PVC nylon material. That’s the same high Mil-Spec standard of mag pouches costing twice as much. It attaches directly to most any conventional type of rifle stock. One drawback, though, is that it gets in the way if you use a quick release sling swivel on your stock.
Who Will Use This Most
The ammo pouch is an unknown necessity for hunting and tactical/self-defense. The pouch allows you to carry extra mags, which can be handy on a hunting trip. Similarly, you can mount the pouch on the mini-14 and equip it with an extra mag, for a possible home defense situation.
Bottom Line
This ammo pouch for the Mini-14 is lightweight, simple and easy to use. The multiple carry options and its ambidexterity make it even more useful for shooters. The pouch is a must-have for mini-14 users who like to wander the woods with their gun.
Bipod and Adapter
A bipod is great for shooting from a bench rest or prone. If you’re target shooting or hunting, a bipod is a great addition to make life easier.
In most circumstances, a bipod with a standard leg length extending from 6 to 9 inches is most suitable. You can check out our bipod reviews.
Mini 14 Bipod and Adapter
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to the recent buyer reviews, this bipod is quite durable and easy to install. It allows really fine adjustments for the user and is quite stable due to the extra hardware. These are by far the most functional and aptly priced bipods on the market from a renowned manufacturer.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The bipod can be attached to QD swivel studs, which often prevents you from attaching extra hardware. The legs and the hinged base plate can both be adjusted to even the smallest measurements, which makes the bipod quite precise and stable. Another favorable aspect is the price of this bipod.
If you are looking for one with the longer legs for hunting in the woods or for using the extended 30 round magazines, the HARRIS S-L Bipod sling swivel mount is the perfect item for you. The Harris Bipods company is the benchmark brand in this type of accessory. They offer their new S-L Bipod series with spring-loaded, telescoping legs ranging from 9" to 13".
The bipod mounts to QD swivel studs. The swivel feature is great for anywhere that is not entirely flat and level. In other words, the swivel type bipod will enable your shooting from an uneven surface.
The Harris Bipod attaches securely to the stud of Mini 14 rifles with conventional stock design. It allows the shooter to carry their gun with a sling, and it won’t impede shooting off-hand. These ultra-light bipods are made from an aluminum alloy with some steel parts and hard rubber leg caps.
To install the sling swivel Harris Bipod, you will need a Harris adapter stud. For the Mini 14 it preferably would be an adapter for 5/16" rails. This is an American standard vs. the European rails that measure 3/8" across. Made of heat-treated steel, the Harris Bipod Adapter Stud is a quality part. In some cases, these adapters will require minor stock or forend inletting for proper fit.
Who Will Use This Most
The bipod is extremely useful for hunters and precision/competition shooters. It can be adjusted for all kinds of prone shooting stances and offers precision to the shooter. The bipod works best under rocky and rough terrain to let a hunter find the proper shooting level and stance.
Bottom Line
Harris is among the most trusted and renowned manufacturer of bipods, and this bipod testifies this fact. It can be adjusted to minuscule levels and allows the shooter to have a stable and reliable platform for taking accurate shots.
Scope Mount
The accuracy of the Mini 14 indeed is not stellar, although it’s improved in recent years. Most owners find it to be perfectly adequate as a sport/utility rifle. For those who expect a higher level of precision, investing in optics is worth considering.
If we use Ruger’s factory side rings, there are see-under scope mounts offering more flexible installation options with extra-long Weaver style mounting rails. This will help achieve maximum eye relief.
Mini 14 Scope Mount
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The B-square scope mount is quite usable when it comes to a Ruger Mini-14. It fits snug over the weapon after replacing the plate, which also allows it to retain its position under rigorous maneuvers. Installation of the mount is quite easy, and it works with all mini-14 models.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The scope mount attaches to the rifle as if it were its original part. Additionally, the extra 1-inch scope rings also save you some money and protect you from the hassle of buying them separately. Due to its design, this mount fits firmly to the mini-14, compared to any other mount on the market.
The B-Square Sport Rifle Mount is installed by replacing the stock bolt-stop cover plate with a threaded one. It was one of the best options for Ruger 181 series and later Mini-14's.
The B-Square scope base for the Mini 14 comes with a pair of 1" InterLock rings constructed of anodized 6061-T6 aluminum. It doesn’t require gunsmithing. It’s very sturdy and is probably the easiest way to put a scope on your rifle.
Who Will Use This Most
This scope mount seems like a necessity for every mini-14 owner. If you want a scope on your Ruger Mini-14 (which you will sooner or later), this scope is a must buy. However, for specific reasons the scope is good for hunters and competitive shooters.
Bottom Line
The B-square scope mount is a great addition to the mini-14 rifle, because of its design. Plus it also includes 1-inch scope rings that add to its value for money. The mount is relatively easy to install and will prevent you from the hassle of mounting and dismounting it after every session.
Scope
The Ruger Mini 14 has long suffered from a reputation for poor accuracy, but after a few modifications and the addition of a good scope, this proven platform becomes more appealing and versatile. Of course this is especially for those who would like to hunt with a Mini 14.
The Bushnell Trophy line is a step up from the economy Bushnell Banner line, and the scope was designed for centerfire rifles or black powder guns.
Mini 14 Scope
This hunting riflescope is built from the durable 1-piece aluminum main tube with integrated saddle. It has upgraded, fully multi-coated optics to enable a brighter, more transparent image in any weather condition. The scope comes in at 3-9x magnification and a 40mm objective lens, presenting an unbeatable combination of edge-to-edge clarity and best-in-class light transmission.
The Trophy features a Euro-style fast-focus eyepiece to let you quickly focus. It’s also outfitted with several reticle types such as a Mil-dot reticle, Multi-X, Circle-X and DOA 600 reticles. For safety and protection, it has front and rear Butler Creek flip-up scope covers.
Advertised with a 4" eye relief, shooting from Ruger Mini 14 is quite comfortable leaving an overall impression of a generally good riflescope in this price class. It’s not a top-end scope but for the Mini 14 it offers great quality and value.
Sight
If you're not interested in mounting a full scope to your Mini 14, but still want to improve your accuracy with it - you can add a more compact and simple sight. Those who opt for a scope could still install a sight as a redundant backup. This is useful if your preference changes on different days out with your Mini 14.
Ruger Mini 14 Sight Assembly
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This is a durable and tested original mini-14 rear sight which can be used for replacing broken ones. The sights have a flip-up design which is easy to use. Plus, the standard GI type aperture makes shooting even more comfortable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These sights are the best budget option for replacement of a mini-14 rear sight. Plus, it has been manufactured by Ruger, so there’s less likelihood of any compatibility or performance issues. Another outstanding feature is its durability and value for money.
Who Will Use This Most
These sights are good as a backup. Plus, shooters who like using OEM parts will appreciate it. These are more likely to be used by people who shoot at close range or are just fond of using iron sights.
Bottom Line
These Ruger Mini-14 OEM sights are good for backup and replacement. The sights are the best budget option and work really well with the rifle. However, making adjustments will require you to use a tool.
Types of Mini 14 Add-ons
The Mini 14 can be upgraded in a lot of ways, but for the sake of simplicity, we’ll just talk about a few of the most important upgrades to the rifle.
Trigger
An important component when upgrading the Mini 14 is its trigger. The M1 Garand-style trigger has a somewhat heavy pull and a bit of overtravel in the second stage. Installing a newer, smoother trigger will ease the functioning of the rifle.
Gas System
Gas Bushing Placement (Source)
Upgrading the gas system of a Mini 14 is probably the most important upgrade to the rifle. The Mini 14 requires an adjustable gas block and a reduced size gas bushing. The original gas system of the Mini 14 operates with a lot of force, which impacts the receiver and pushes the spent cartridge too far away. Upgrading the gas system will make the rifle more accurate.
Rear Sights
The Mini 14 uses iron sights, but you can upgrade them with red dot sights or scopes for improved range and accuracy. But remember to upgrade the gas system as it has already has enough stroke to shake your scope off zero after every shot.
Shock Buffer
The shock buffer is a rather inexpensive and small upgrade to the Mini 14. So much so, that it might be helpful in eliminating the cost of replacing the adjustable gas system. Buffers eliminate the violent metal-to-metal slamming of the op-rod to the receiver and the gas block.
Stock
The Mini 14 can be upgraded with accessories and after mods for better handling. Adding mods such as recoil pads, lightweight stock, cheek risers, and rails mounts can be done conveniently with the use of the right stock.
Conclusion
A few minor modifications make a world of difference in the function and accuracy of the Mini 14. To convert yours into a tricked-out rifle, check out the suggestions we have here, or the more in-depth articles we’ve linked to. Happy shooting!
