Best Mini 14 Upgrades & Accessories
What are the best Ruger Mini 14 upgrades and accessories? This article will cover exactly that. The Ruger Mini 14 is a great rifle with many different applications but can be improved with some Mini 14 upgrades and accessories.
These guns are very popular and there is a lot you can do to them with aftermarket parts.
By adding the best Mini 14 upgrades and accessories you can unlock the full potential of the rifle and increase its usability and effectiveness.
This article will cover the best Ruger Mini 14 upgrades and accessories that will make the firearm better.
What Is a Mini 14?
The Mini-14 (also referred to as the ranch rifle) is a lightweight semi-automatic rifle manufactured by Sturm, Ruger & Co. Introduced in 1973, it is based on the M14 rifle and is essentially a scaled-down version chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO.
It is made in a number of variants, including the Ranch Rifle (a basic, civilian variant), the Mini-14 GB, and the Mini Thirty, which is chambered for 7.62×39mm.
The Mini-14 uses the same action and firing mechanism as the M14 rifle which was based on the M1 Garand.
You will notice the evolution of this gun when looking at it. It looks similar to its predecessors.
These rifles are very popular and most people like the traditional look but with the modern capabilities of the rifle. Also, some people who gravitate to this rifle like it because it doesn’t look tactical.
The Mini-14 Ranch rifle offers inherent accuracy and quick repeat shot capability which makes it the favorite of ranchers and outdoorsmen.
Its Garand-style action with breech bolt locking system is a fixed-piston gas system and self-cleaning which gives unparalleled reliability under harsh operating conditions.
The Mini-14 Ranch also has a cold hammer-forged barrel and ghost ring adjustable rear and blade front sights.
Where To Purchase a Mini 14?
Depending on your location, most larger gun stores will keep the new Ruger Mini-14 readily stocked on their gun racks. If you can not find one local you could always order these online.
I have found that the prices of them have stayed pretty consistent in the past ten years and can be purchased for right around $900 to $1000.
This will also depend on which model and version you are looking for. Most commonly are the traditional wood stock and blued receiver and barrel, or the black synthetic stock and the stainless steel receiver and barrel.
If you want to check the prices and availability of the new Ruger Mini-14s, I will leave a link below and you can take a look.
Click Here to check the current prices and availability of the Ruger Mini-14
Best Mini 14 Upgrades & Accessories
There are a lot of different modifications and parts you can add to your Mini 14 ranch rifle to make it a better and more enjoyable rifle to shoot.
Increasing the accuracy of the rifle can also be accomplished, but with better accuracy, it will take a lot more work.
You can install shock buffers, a new barrel strut, muzzle brake, trigger group, operating rod, and a whole plethora of accessories. How far you want to go depends on your own personal preference and budget.
All of the Ruger Mini 14 upgrades and accessories in this article will also work for the Ruger Mini 30 as well.
RUGER MINI-14 CURRENT MODELS IN PRODUCTION
- Click Here to view them on Ruger’s website
- Click Here to download the owner’s manual
Mini 14 Trigger Group Upgrade
When it comes to the trigger assemblies on the Mini 14, you are slightly limited. Many owners of this rifle will have a trigger job done by a professional gunsmith to lighten and smooth up the trigger pull.
Some owners even rework the trigger group themselves. If you want a drop-in trigger there are some available.
JARD Ruger Mini-14 Trigger
The JARD Mini-14 Trigger Upgrade Kit provides a smooth trigger pull with a crisp break for your Mini-14, as well as adjustability to fine-tune your travel and sear engagement for the perfect trigger pull.
This can be installed yourself and they have detailed instructions on their website on how to do it.
Also, you could always take it to a gunsmith and have it done, but in my opinion, if you are going to a certified gunsmith, just have them do a trigger job on your ranch rifle.
Click Here to check the current prices of the JARD Mini-14 Trigger Upgrade Kit
Mini 14 Stock Upgrade
Upgrading the wood or synthetic stock on the Ruger Mini 14 will give it a more modern look and feel.
It will also allow you to add more accessories like a bipod or a weapon light and will be more comfortable compared to the standard stock.
There are three different stocks I recommend and that you should consider when upgrading.
Hogue Ruger Mini 14/30 and Ranch Rifle Stock
Instantly improve your weapon’s handling by upgrading to a Hogue Ruger Mini 14/30 and Ranch Rifle Stock.
These increase your length-of-pull to 13.625in to create a more natural feel and enhanced sight picture.
It features a gentle 0.5in drop at the heel that allows for easy mounting and faster sight acquisition in the field.
The texture is a rubber feel with a lot of grip to it. If you want something more comfortable and still like the original look of the rifle, then this is the best option.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Hogue Ruger Mini 14/30 and Ranch Rifle Stock
ATI Ruger Mini-14 Strikeforce Adjustable Side Folding Stock
Greatly improve your weapon handling by equipping this ATI Ruger Mini-14 Strikeforce Adjustable Side-Folding Stock.
This stock can be fired from the folded position, allowing you to choose how you shoot your firearm.
This has four forward Picatinny rail locations for the attachment of your favorite accessories like optics, lasers, and weapon lights.
The DuPont extreme temperature glass-reinforced polymer construction is as rugged as ever, and added ventilation in the forend and top cover ensures your firearm won’t overheat during continuous rounds.
You also gain much better control of your shots when outfitted with this stock since the X1 style pistol grip absorbs recoil impact while also mitigating muzzle lift for enhanced precision.
With no snag points, you can maneuver through the field without getting caught on gear or webbing, and there are slots and studs for sling attachment to create an easier carry method when lugging around other gear.
Pro Mag Archangel Precision Rifle Stock
The Pro Mag Archangel Precision Rifle Stock introduces a nearly indestructible ergonomic adjustable stock.
This has a carbon fiberglass fill and polymer that creates a tough as nails stock and is guaranteed for life.
Precision fit inlet and ridged construction improve accuracy without the need for complicated and expensive glass bedding.
These have ambidextrous gooseneck stock with palm swells, click adjustable cheek riser, and click adjustable length of pull that ensures a custom fit.
There is a secure pistol grip storage compartment as well.
Constructed with high-strength carbon fiber and glass-reinforced tan polymer. It includes an improved enhanced hand guard with an integral heat shield that gives your Mini more of an M-14 look.
There are four steel embedded quick detach hardpoints and a flared mag-well makes magazine changes quick and easy. The forend has an integrated 6 o’clock Picatinny rail and there is a soft rubber recoil pad.
NOTICE: Does not fit some early model Ruger models with early style gas block.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Pro Mag Archangel Precision Rifle Stock
Mini 14 Optic Upgrade
The downside of these rifles is that they do not come with an optic rail or really any way to mount a scope unless you go with an older style two-piece scope ring mount.
The iron sights on the mini 14s are really good and a lot of people prefer just using iron sights.
I recommend adding a low power variable scope (LPVO) to the Ruger Mini 14, as this will increase the effective range of the rifle and allow you to see further.
Vortex Razor Gen II-E 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Razor 1-6x Scope is by far one of the best LPVOs on the market and is feature packed for the price.
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II is an ultra-sleek design built like a tank. The Gen II-E is packed full of unique features and is overbuilt.
This scope is well thought out and has everything you need in an LPVO. It truly is a premium optic and works flawlessly.
The scope is designed on a single-piece tube that maximizes alignment for improved accuracy and optimum visual performance and ensures strength and waterproofness.
Here is a link to my full and complete Vortex Razor 1-6x Review if you want to take a look.
| Objective Lens Diameter: | 24 mm |
| Magnification: | 1 – 6 x |
| Tube Diameter: | 30 mm |
| Reticle Focal Plane: | Second Focal Plane (SFP) |
| Exit Pupil: | 4 – 24 mm |
| Battery Type: | CR2032 |
| Battery Quantity: | 1 |
| Field of View, Linear: | 115.2 – 20.5 ft at 100 yds |
| Eye Relief: | 4 in |
| Color: | Stealth Shadow |
| Weight: | 21.5 oz |
| Fabric/Material: | Aircraft Grade Aluminum |
| Length: | 10.1 in |
| Width: | 13 in |
| Height: | 3.75 in |
| Illumination Type: | LED |
| Illumination Color: | Red |
| Brightness Settings: | 11 |
| Parallax: | 100 yds |
| Focus Range: | 100 yds to infinity |
| Lens Material: | Glass |
| Optical Coating: | XR Plus Fully Multi-Coated |
| Attachment/Mount Type: | Ring |
| Battery Life: | 150 hours |
| Water Resistance Level: | Waterproof |
| Shockproof: | Yes |
| Fogproof: | Yes |
| Finish: | Hard-Anodized |
| Package-Type: | Box |
| Magnification Type: | Variable |
| Condition: | New |
Vortex Razor HD 1-6X Gen II-E Features
- APO System
- Optically Indexed Lenses
- HD Lens Elements
- XR Plus Fully Multi-Coated
- Second Focal Plane Reticle
- Illuminated Center Dot
- Locking Illumination
- Single-Piece Tube
- Aircraft-Grade Aluminum
- Waterproof
- Fogproof
- Shockproof
- Hard-Anodized Finish
- ArmorTek
- Large Diameter Turrets
- Friction Reduction System
- Fast-Focus Eyepiece
Click Here to check out the current prices of the Vortex Razor 1-6x Scope
Vortex Precision Extended Cantilever Mount
One of the best mounts for this scope is the Vortex Precision Extended Cantilever Mount.
It will securely attach the scope to your rifle, and you will not have to worry about it shifting once correctly installed. It is a one-piece cantilever design perfect for AR-15 rifles or similar platforms.
This ring size is set to accept 30mm tubes, so it is precisely what you need for the Vortex Razor HD Gen II.
When you use this mount, it will withstand the recoil from your rifle while consistently holding zero.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Vortex Precision Extended Cantilever Mount
Mini 14 Scope Mount Rail
Now you will need a way to mount your scope to the rifle. In order to accomplish this, you will need a scope mount with a rail that attaches to the receiver.
There are a few that will work but you want the most secure and solid mount possible, this way your zero will not shift.
GG&G Ruger Mini 14 Side Scope Mount
A great way to secure your scope on your rifle is by mounting your scope on the GG&G Ruger Mini 14 Side Rifle Scope Mount.
These are easy to install without any gunsmithing or modification, these riflescope mounts feature an extended bolt hold open button and a dual locking screw leveling system for a secure hold that can’t be beaten.
They are completely adjustable and designed as a “See-Under” mount, the GG&G Ruger Mini 14 Side Optical Mount allows you to shoot your way without blocking your iron sights or messing up your alignment.
Click Here to check the current prices of the GG&G Ruger Mini 14 Side Rifle Scope Mount
Mini 14 Muzzle Brake Upgrade
Another good way to increase the performance of the rifle by reducing the felt recoil is by adding a muzzle brake or compensator.
This will redirect the gases exiting the muzzle and allow you to have faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
Choate Tool Mini-14 Cage Compensator
The Choate Mini 14 Recoil Compensator is made of solid Stainless steel. It will work on most 580 and higher series rifles.
This will work on rifles with a diameter of .625 barrels, make sure to measure the barrel before you order, some of the early 580 series rifles have the smaller .562 barrel.
The compensator is attached to the gun barrel by a 1/8 inch spring steel roll pin.
I suggest this unit be installed by a gunsmith because of the level of precision involved in the front sight.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Choate Mini 14 Recoil Compensator
Mini 14 Weapon Light
Depending on what stock you decided to go with, you will now have forward accessory rails on the handguard. This will allow you to add some attachments.
The most important of these is a weapon light. If you plan on using this rifle as a tactical home defense gun then you will need a good weapon light.
Cloud Defensive OWL LED Weaponlight
The Cloud Defensive OWL Weapon Light w/Pressure Switch is a weapon light that is specifically designed to be a complete all-in-one unit.
These have no exposed wires or ports that would be subject to water or debris infiltration.
The blindingly bright Cloud Defensive OWL Compact Optimized Weapon Light operates exclusively on 18650 batteries, so the electrical system is optimized for only one battery format instead of needing compromises for different battery types.
The unique 4000K light temperature penetrates photonic barriers like smoke, fog, and humid air, and works with the physiology of the human eye for ideal situational awareness.
What I like most about this light is that it is a simple setup. You do not need to buy extra mounts, pressure switches, or switch mounts for it.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Cloud Defensive OWL Weapon Light w/Pressure Switch
Mini 14 Bipod
For a more stable shooting platform, you should get a good bipod. Even if you don’t want to have a dedicated bench rest rifle, a bipod that can be quickly stowed and deployed is a good upgrade.
With one of the stocks mentioned above, you will have rail space under the barrel to attach a bipod.
Leapers UTG Super Duty Bipod
The Leapers UTG Super Duty Op Bipod w/ Quick-Detach Mount is a versatile and durable gun bipod that gives you dual mounting options, rapid deployment, quick and easy mounting, and long service life.
The quick-detach lever lock lets you rapidly attach or remove the rifle bipod, and the dual mounting kit lets you attach it to a swivel stud mounting point or to a Picatinny rail or Weaver rail.
The Leapers UTG Super-Duty Op Bipod has variable-length legs that can give you 6″ to 8.5″ of clearance, to suit the terrain and your shooting style.
Other noteworthy features include double support bars for added structural strength, a robust external spring for tension control, and a five-notch leg extension with a push-button release.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Leapers UTG Super Duty Op Bipod w/ Quick-Detach Mount
Mini 14 Magazines
Another thing you will need to stock up on is Mini 14 5.56mm Magazines. Now more than ever 2A rights are under attack and especially in magazines.
I recommend having a standard combat loadout of seven standard capacity magazines for every firearm that you own.
If there is ever a ban you will be happy you stocked up before the price skyrocketed. I also recommend having at least one high-capacity magazine because anti-gunners hate it.
Click Here to check the current prices of Mini 14 5.56mm Magazines
Mini 14 5.56mm Ammo
The final thing that you need a lot of is 5.56mm Ammo. At a bare minimum, you should have at least 1000 rounds in your stockpile.
Ammo prices are always going up so it’s smart to buy a little whenever you can. I try to pick up a few boxes every time I’m at a store that sells them.
Also, when it goes on sale I try and buy some bulk boxes.
Click Here to check the current prices of 5.56mm Ammo
Mini 14 FAQ
Is the Mini-14 just as accurate as the AR-15?
Yes, the Ruger Mini-14 is an accurate rifle just like the AR-15. The AR platform can be modified to increase its accuracy to a more in-depth level compared to the Ruger Mini-14.
Is the Mini-14 a reliable gun?
The Ruger Mini-14 is a very reliable firearm, especially the newer models that Ruger produces. It uses a classic feeding mechanism that has been proven.
Is the Ruger Mini-14 an assault rifle?
No, it is not. An assault rifle is any rifle that is select fire (fully automatic or three-round burst). Most people do not understand the correct definition of an assault rifle and also confuse AR-15s as being assault rifles when they are not.
Can you add a scope to the Mini 14?
You can add a red dot optic or a scope to the Mini 14 but you will need to add a mounting rail. There are a lot of different options when it comes to adding an optic on a Mini 14.
Complete List of Items Mentioned
(Click the links for the most up to date prices)
- Ruger Mini-14
- JARD Mini-14 Trigger Upgrade Kit
- Hogue Ruger Mini 14/30 and Ranch Rifle Stock
- ATI Ruger Mini-14 Strikeforce Adjustable Side-Folding Stock
- Pro Mag Archangel Precision Rifle Stock
- Vortex Razor 1-6x Scope
- Vortex Precision Extended Cantilever Mount
- GG&G Ruger Mini 14 Side Rifle Scope Mount
- Choate Mini 14 Recoil Compensator
- Cloud Defensive OWL Weapon Light w/Pressure Switch
- Leapers UTG Super Duty Op Bipod w/ Quick-Detach Mount
- Mini 14 5.56mm Magazines
- 5.56mm Ammo
Have you added any upgrades and accessories to your Ruger Mini-14?
Did you initially start with a better trigger or a new stock?
Let me know in the comments below.
Further reading on Firstworldcrusader.com: Are you interested in learning more about guns and gear?
This list of the Best Gun Safes can help you choose the best safe for your firearms collection.
In addition, here are the Best Glock Upgrades that can help you get more out of your Glock pistol.
Hello, I just picked up a 196-series and I was planning on putting on an Accu-strut and an Archangel stock. Do you know if those will both fit on together, or will it have to be one or the other?
I’m not sure is they will be compatible. You could order them both and see if they work. If they don’t, you can return them. I know its a pain when two parts don’t work together, and you could try modifying them if they do not.
HI Joseph. I’m an old Army veteran and retired LEO. Over the course of my career Ive been a range officer and NRA certified firearms instructor. I have several firearms in my collection from WW1 era to modern AR style. I just purchased my first, and brand new, Mini-14 Ranch. I enjoyed reading your article as I’m embarking on my journey to accessorize this guy. The article provided a great “jumping off” point for my search. Thanks again.
You’re welcome and thank you for your service. I did 7 years and the Army, and I’m happy to be out. Please bookmark this website as you my enjoy more of my articles in the future.