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196 series mini 14

16K views 12 replies 4 participants last post by  firestorm 
#1 ·
I know from reading the other post that this has been touched on, but i still can't seem to find a scope base for the 196 series mini. I don't like the side mount system. seems like too much movement, and I am not looking to drill and tape. I am open to other suggestions. thanks for any help
 
#2 ·
A 196 should have the Ruger scope mounts. It was my understanding by the 196 series they all had the Ranch receivers. If that is the case you need the ruger scope rings and they mount to the top of the receiver. There should be two machined points that look like squared posts on the top of your receiver. Give us some pictures if you can. kwg
 
#3 ·
I think they were still making the Standard Mini-14 as well as having introduced the Ranch model. Look at the model stamped into your reciever. If it says "ranch" or "5R" it is a Ranch model and should have the integral scope mounts. If the model is denoted by "5" it as the standard model and had the older style peep sight without scope mounts. If that is the case, and you don't want to either use a side mount or drill and tap,,, the only option I can think of is to look at some of the aftermarket stocks(tapco for example, see attached links, I also included one for a rail that replaces your handguard), that have an integral picatinny built into the top. Good luck.

TAPCO T6 Stock 6-Position Collapsible Ruger Mini-14, Mini-30 Standard Barrel Channel Synthetic Black - MidwayUSA
Aimtech Scout Rail Forend Ruger Mini-14 Matte - MidwayUSA
 
#4 · (Edited)
it does not have the integral scope mounts that is why I am having problems.
I do like the looks of the scout rail thanks for the help. I did see one scope mount that replaces the rear peep sight and just lays on the front hand-guard. just not sure about the vibration when shooting. thanks for all the help Keep it coming.
this is the other style mount I was thinking of but the whole Fits:
# Mini-14 Series pre-180 -- will not fit 180 series, will not fit Ranch rifles
Has me confused

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=715165
 
#5 ·
I actually saw a Mini the other day that had one of those Tapco Fusions on it. I was pretty impressed with it. I'm leaving mine alone, I like the looks the way they are, but if you aren't specifically into the traditional Mini, I give it a plus one.
 
#6 ·
#8 ·
The serial number on your Mini should begin with 180, 181, 580 etc. The 180's were the original model, the 580's being the latest. Anything higher than 187 would be a "Ranch" model which should be denoted as Mini-14/5R. If it was one of the less produced standard models, it would not have the R notation.

The 580 series Ranch models will just be stamped Mini-14 Ranch. Your aftermarket parts will tell you which series they are suited for.
 
#10 ·
That does narrow things down a little. The Mini wasn't introduced until '75. The 180 series stayed til 77, the 181's til 80. I would think you should write Ruger if you want a closer date. I didn't notice you were "Out of the Country" so to speak. This model wouldn't perhaps be selective fire would it?
 
#12 ·
Does it have a fully auto selective fire switch? Just wondering if you had yourself something hard to come by, rather valuable, and extremely difficult to own in the US.
 
#13 ·
No It a semi-auto ,
The law is also very hard in South Africa regarding auto rifles,but in the same breath one could take a drive to any bus rank in South Africa and you can buy /rent an Ak47 with as much ammo you want or can afored to purchase ,but as a citizen you battle to get a legal weapon.
One has to go throught a lot of courses and have to wait anything upto 3 years for them to issue you with a liceince .Then every 2 to 5 years you have to renew it and apply for a competency certificate.which takes for ever .
I am still waiting for the licience for the mini 14
 
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