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AR15 vs. Mini 14

HAEDPULLERHAEDPULLER Member Posts: 46 ✭✭
edited November 2001 in Ask the Experts
We all know that AR's are much more accurate than any mini. On only the issues of reliability between the two in harsh field conditions and user friendlyness between the two designs in terms of controls (example- charging- mag release-clearing jams ETC)I would like some imput from you guys and gals to settle a dispute between friends.
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Comments

  • Der GebirgsjagerDer Gebirgsjager Member Posts: 1,673 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    First, I would take issue with the part about "more accurate than any mini". Some of the accurized ones are outstanding. Out of the box, though, you are correct. As for the rest, taken exactly as you've stated it, I'd vote for the mini. Never cared much for a rifle that requires a "forward assist" for the bolt. Safety is in an inconvenient location. Bolt is not as easily retracted as the mini. Chamber and loaded/unloaded condition is not as easily observed. Best of all, the M-14!
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  • luger01luger01 Member Posts: 230 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Ever have a jam in an AR-15 because of field conditions (mud, dirt, etc.), or because it froze in the chamber? How to get the stuck case in or out? You've got trouble.With a Mini, slipme put the rifle butt down and stomp on the bolt handle. You won't hurt the rifle.` and you'll get it working quickly.The AR is a good design for accuracy and normal use conditions. When the mud flys and things freeze, I'd take a Garand, M-14, or Mini anyday. Those rifles will work in the worst conditions and you can get them back working after problems like I mentioned above. None of these rifles are as accurate as an AR-15, but they ARE designed to be functional in the worst conditions.AR fans will disagree, I'm sure. However, facts are facts and guns designed to be totally robust are not going to be the most accurate, and vica versa.
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  • KadaverKadaver Member Posts: 333 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    i like the AR-15....style wise....and want one because everyone else does.....but i still favor my mini.....(needs to be somewhat accurized though).....imho, any action on a rifle modeled after the M1 garand and M-14 is good enough for me![This message has been edited by Kadaver (edited 11-20-2001).]
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  • gunnutgunnut Member Posts: 724 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Bottom line is what do you plan to do with it?If you want positive function pick the miniIf you want tack driven accuracy buy a Sendero!If you want to look cool buy a AR
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  • boeboeboeboe Member Posts: 3,331
    edited November -1
    The M14/M1A, Garand, and Mini-14/30 DO have a forward assist, it's called the bolt handle. If the bolt hangs up on the charging stroke, you smack the handle forward with the heal of you hand, to close the bolt and finish chambering the round. Basic "forward assist".The safety on an AR in an inconvenient location? I always thought it was perfect! Now, the Mini-14 mag release might be a bit inconvenient if speed is a factor...I own both as well. I've had both jam. I've been able to tune the AR to the point where jamming is a non-issue. Beating the bolt handle on a Jammed Mini with a brick is not too desireable (okay, so I exagerate with the brick). If I was going to keep one over the other, I'd keep the AR, hands down.[This message has been edited by boeboe (edited 11-20-2001).]
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  • cpermdcpermd Member Posts: 5,273 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    AR is more accurateAR is more reliableMags are cheaperYou can get a nice AR for $750 that outdoes the cheaper Mini in any way.cpermd
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  • luger01luger01 Member Posts: 230 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    OK, so the answer is: BUY BOTH. Have fun. When one barrel gets too hot, switch and shoot the other rifle.You'd think this was an either/or propostion. It should be an AND, as in, 'buy this AND that'.In summary:Buy a Bushmaster or Armalite AR-15. Buy a Mini-14. Buy a Sendaro for high accuracy 'target' shots. Throw in a M1 Garand and a couple of M1 Carbines for historical value and fun. Plus get a few other good rifles for other situations and you're set (not discussing handguns or shotguns here!).
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  • gundummygundummy Member Posts: 254 ✭
    edited November -1
    I have a Mini and have shot an AR. I would like an AR one day, but can wait. The Mini can't do a 1" group @ 100 yds like an AR, but can do a 2-1/2" to 3" max which is enough for me. I've shot just about all the ammo's available (including Wolf) with no problems in cold, warm, wet, icy conditions. I don't know much about the AR therefore won't say much about it (other than I want one because I don't have one yet, so more of a want then a need), but feel confident that if or when the #$!? hits the fan, I can count on my Mini. Maybe I'll have a different response after I get an AR, but till then, the Mini is the one for me. GD
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  • beachmaster73beachmaster73 Member Posts: 3,011 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    Have never seen a mini-14 on the line at Camp Perry. It's probably one of the most fun plinkin' guns in the world but I wouldn't want to use it for a serious shoot out. Not saying the AR is God's gift to humanity...just that it can be relied upon to deliver accurate shots out to 600 yards. Beach
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