Ruger Mini-14 .223 Rem/5.56mm NATO Wood Handguard Semi-Auto Rifle MFD 1982
SOLD FOR: $1050
LSB#: 210904DJ72
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Mini-14
Serial Number: 183-11897
Year of Manufacture: 1982 (Ruger Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO
Action Type: Magazine-Fed Semi-Automatic Rifle
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number “183-11897”, a warning, a Ruger phoenix logo, “®”, and “STURM, RUGER & CO., INC. / SOUTHPORT CONN. U.S.A.”. The top of the receiver is marked with a Ruger proof mark, and “RUGER / MINI-14 ® / CAL. .223”.
Barrel Length: 18 1/2”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade integral to a banded base pinned to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable protected ghost ring.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a smooth wood with pistol grip, straight comb, wood handguard, and black synthetic buttplate. There are sling swivels on the buttstock and gas block. There are scattered minor handling marks, and the edge of the grip has a few light nicks. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 12 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate has minor scuff wear at the heel and toe. Overall, the stock rates in Fine-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion, but minor stubborn fouling can be seen throughout.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The action has minor operational wear. The slide assembly and receiver have taken on a light minor plum hue. The through-bolt has minor tool marks with a strong slot, and all markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork and Accessories: This Mini-14 includes its original serial-matching cardboard box, one (1) 5-round magazine, the original manual, a vintage purchaser’s record card, and a vintage advertisement for American Handgunner magazine.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Mini-14 is a classic American rifle manufactured by the last major American firearms company that has seen use in most sectors, private and military, all over the world. In production currently, there have been many variants throughout its history, but this rifle is one of the earlier ones produced in 1982, and showcases the fundamental design with the classic wood handguard (later variants use a polymer version). This rifle is in Fine-plus overall condition with a near immaculate stock and virtually no wear on the metal surfaces. The original packaging and paper ephemera round out this package nicely, and any collector would do well to scoop this up! Good luck and happy bidding.