Ruger Mini-14

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	Weapon: Ruger Mini-14 Type: Assault Rifle Country of Origin: United States Year Adopted: 1973 Overall Length (mm): 940.0 Overall Length (in): 37.01 Weight (kg): 2.00 Weight (pounds): 4.41

The Ruger Mini-14 is a semi-automatic rifle developed by Sturm, Ruger & Co. in the early 1970s and introduced to the market in 1973. Designed by L. James Sullivan and William B. Ruger, it takes inspiration from the M1 Garand and M14 rifles, incorporating a scaled-down Garand-style action chambered for the .223 Remington/5.56x45mm NATO cartridge. The rifle features a simple yet robust gas-operated, rotating bolt mechanism and is known for its reliability, ease of maintenance, and versatility. Its design emphasizes practical use, with a rugged construction and a range of available configurations, including tactical and ranch models.

Production of the Mini-14 has been continuous since its introduction, with millions of units manufactured over the decades. The rifle has been marketed to both civilian and law enforcement markets, gaining popularity for its compact size, light weight, and suitability for various roles. It has been adopted by police forces, security organizations, and military units in over 20 countries, with particular appeal in environments requiring a robust yet user-friendly weapon. The Mini-14 has also seen updates and improvements over time, including the development of the Mini-30 variant, chambered for 7.62x39mm, to broaden its appeal.

The Ruger Mini-14 gained notoriety for its widespread use in civilian, law enforcement, and military applications. While its accuracy compared to some modern rifles has been critiqued, it remains a favorite for ranchers, hunters, and sport shooters due to its durability and versatility. The rifle has also been featured in numerous films, television series, and real-world events, contributing to its iconic status. Its reputation as a reliable, all-purpose rifle ensures its continued popularity and relevance in the firearms market.