How to Mount a Scope on a Ruger Mini-14

The Mini-14 is a semi-automatic .223-caliber weapon introduced by the Southport, Conn.-based Sturm, Ruger & Co. in 1974. The rifle features a gas-operated rotating bolt mechanism patterned after the M-1 Garand battle rifle used during World War II and became popular after 1982, when Ruger released a model that allowed scopes to be easily mounted. The gun also earned notoriety in 1986, when two bank robbers used a Mini-14 in a shootout, killing two FBI agents and wounding five before being shot to death.

Things You'll Need

  • Allen wrench
  • Scope mount kit
  • Gun cleaner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the breech and check the chamber to be sure there are no bullets in the rifle.

    • 2

      Clean the countersink screws and washers that should come with the scope mount, using cleaning fluid to remove oil and make sure the screws stay secure. Place the screws into the washers.

    • 3

      Line up the screws and washers with the half-moon rings on the mount. Tighten them so they're "finger-tight," or as secure as you can make them with your hands. Use an Allen wrench to turn the screws about an eighth of a turn to finish the job.

    • 4

      Follow your scope manufacturer's instructions to place the scope on the mount.