I need some learning. What's the difference between a Ruger mini 14 and an AR15?

[coonazz]

I've got a Ruger Mini 14 and i love that gun. It's great to boil water or mow down coyotes. I just keep hearing about everyone building their own AR15s and wanted to know about the differences.

Both are .223 - right? Both semi-auto. Both have high capacity magazines. (my mini has a 33 rd clip. Not sure about the AR.) Is there a huge quality gap?

[In-Yo-Grill]

Accessorizing would be my first comment. Adjustable stocks, grips, slings, QD scopes and lots of other rail mounted accessories.

Not to mention the looks...lol

[Tommyh]

There are a lot of accessories for the mini 14 now, with folding stocks, bipods, etc. However, the shear amount of toys for an AR, not to mention caliber selection depending on which AR platform you choose, is outstanding! the mini 14 is 223 or 6.8spc and an AR is either 223 or 5.56/223 or 6.8spc, or 6.5 grendel, or .204, or 300 whisper, or......you get the jist . The AR is also a HECK of a lot more accurate than the mini as well.

Its a tinkertoy of guns and SERIOUSLY upgradable depending on how deep your pockets are. plus it has cool factor!

[big_smith]

I have a mini so I can speak from experience. I am sure there are some that are accurate, but for the most part they are marginally accurate at best. An AR is the platform used by the US military and most law enforcement agencies. While there are some LE that use mini 14's, the large majority use AR's. That being said-other than calibler/magazines they are nothing like one another.

[Mike D]

Two totally different weapons. Different actions, etc....

Plus all of the above that has already been said.

[Howard]

one gives you bigger ego

[SCOUT1]

AR can be accurate, a Mini-14 won't be

[Berretta Man]

About $700.

[Nitro1970]

I have a mini and if I can hold a 4" group at 100yards, I'm lucky. The last AR I shot put a 3 shot group so tight it just looked liked one bullet keyholed.

[coonazz]

I'm sold! I guess ignorance is bliss. I was sitting here fat and happy, wondering what the fuss is about the AR's.

Guess i need to read up on some info and try building me one.

[denimdeerslayer]

accuracy, go with the AR

[tvc184]

I'm sold! I guess ignorance is bliss. I was sitting here fat and happy, wondering what the fuss is about the AR's.

Guess i need to read up on some info and try building me one.

Accuracy and reliability. If you are only going to shoot 100 yards or less, the Mini will do okay. If you aren't going to shoot combat with it, same answer.

If you are going to reach out to longer distances or want to shoot your rifle under high stress of multiple shots and reloads, go with the AR. The Mini simply can't hold up to the task.

[texag93]

Just one little side note.....good luck finding reasonably priced Ruger Mini 14 mags. Mr. Ruger didn't think average citizens should have access to hi-cap mags for his toys. AR mags are cheap, plentiful and reliable. Get an AR.

[In-Yo-Grill]

Just one little side note.....good luck finding reasonably priced Ruger Mini 14 mags. Mr. Ruger didn't think average citizens should have access to hi-cap mags for his toys. AR mags are cheap, plentiful and reliable. Get an AR.

Good advice...I just got a fresh batch of PMAGs in and I'm sure they will go quick.