Mini-14 Weaver mount question

Palantirion

I have a ranch style Mini-14 (serial # starting with 197), and I am not sure if I can use one of the $20ish weaver mounts that I see advertised online. I have been told that 180 and 190 series Mini-14s cannot use them, but that 181, 182, 183, etc. can use them. As my gun is a 197, I am not sure if that means I am up a creek or not. Can I use it with my 14?

If I can't use this common Weaver mount, how SHOULD I mount a weaver-base scope on my Mini-14? (I must be able to use iron sights as a backup)

If I can't use the common Weaver base, why not? What is the nature of the conflict?

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PRZNCOP110

I think weaver makes a mount that locks on to the Ruger integrated mounts but I have never seen one that also is "see-thru" like on the 10/22. The mini is not drilled and tapped so whatever you attatch must use the Ruger integrated mount system (which blocks any attempt at "see-thru"). What you can try is the mount system for the regular Mini14 (B-Square makes one). It replaces the door on the left side of the receiver (cant remember what it is called). Those you can see under to still use the iron sites. But I dont know if the mount will work on the Ranch rifle.
Good luck.



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