One of the classic 20th century American rifle designs is the Ruger Mini-14, and despite the proliferation of AR-style rifles and other semi-automatic platforms, the Mini-14 soldiers on, more than 50 years since its introduction. While it's a solid rifle in its own right, the popularity of the Mini-14 has to be partially attributed to its presence in popular culture, most notably as one of the chosen firearms for "The A-Team," a popular '80s action series.
Today, the Mini-14 is still in production, and with approximately 3 million made, there are plenty out on the market, so understandably, it has spawned a rather healthy aftermarket of parts and accessories. Here are five that you really can't live without if you're a true Mini-14 fan.
It’s impossible to think of modifying a Mini-14 without also thinking of swapping out its standard stock for the Samson A-TM Folding Stock for Ruger Mini-14 and Ruger Mini Thirty (assuming you didn’t buy it in that configuration immediately). This thing is legitimately cool, even beyond harking back to a certain popular ’80s show, as it’s made from the original molds and design from the original stock maker rather than being a copy or a reproduction. There is one positive change from the original—dark-stained walnut handsomely replaces the original birch. Finally, the stock’s folding mechanism is intuitively easy to operate. We love it when a plan comes together. MSRP: $375; samson-mfg.com
The Mo-Reaper Hooded Front Sight/Muzzle Brake for Ruger Mini is a well-designed solution for better recoil control, as it uses the same roll-pin location on the barrel as the factory’s front sight, making it easy to add to your rifle. Made in the U.S. from hard-anodized aluminum alloy, it’s lightweight but strong. The alternating rows of gas-dispersing ports channel gas equally to both sides, while the cylindrical hood over the front sight reduces glare off the ball-type sight post. Standard AK/SKS threads allow that sight post to be easily switched should you prefer something different. It is available in natural-alloy brushed silver or satin black. MSRP: $153; rugermini.com
Optics are, of course, going to be one of the main accessory considerations, and for those, you need a rail. The Monstrum Ruger Mini-14/Mini-30 Ranch Style Picatinny Mounting System attaches directly to the receiver via included clamp mounts with no additional hardware required. That then allows you to mount Picatinny or Weaver standard scope rings, scope mounts, red dots or other optics. A channel at the base of mount also allows you to see most fixed iron sights. MSRP: $19.95; monstrumtactical.com
The sights that come with the Ranch-style Mini-14 are an obvious target for upgrades, but you’ll also want to stick with sights that match the vibe. The Tech Sights MINI200 Aperture Rear Sights offer just enough of an upgrade, allowing for easy click adjustments for elevation and windage. All-steel construction ensures durability. (Compatibility may vary based on Mini-14 vintage.) MSRP: $65 to $69; tech-sights.com
Accessorizing your Mini-14 starts with the ability to add some basic tools, like a flashlight. This Catalyst Arms Hardpoint and Bomb Rack set is ideal for that task. First, the Hardpoint three-slot Picatinny rail attaches right to the gas block for adding a small light or laser under the barrel. If you need a larger light or additional accessories, you can add the Bomb Rack, directly attaching it over the Hardpoint, giving you a total of five M-Lok slots positioned at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock. (The Bomb Rack M-Lok system is also sold as its own item without the Hardpoint, but why not have the railed option, too?) Both systems are made of aluminum right here in the U.S. Oh, and either will also give you QD sling swivel attachment options as well. MSRP: $129.95 (set); catalystarms.com
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