Ruger Mini-14/F Folder Stainless .223 Rem / 5.56 NATO 18.5″ Semi-Auto Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,334.00
LSB#: LSB250718LT127
Make: Ruger
Model: Mini-14 / F (Factory Folder)
Serial Number: 184-66575
Year of Manufacture: Late 1980s (184-prefix production era)
Caliber: .223 Remington / 5.56×45mm
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Gas Operated, Rotating Bolt
Markings: The receiver is roll-marked with the serial number 184-66575 and Ruger factory punches consistent with later 20th-century Mini-14 production. The box is hand-marked with the matching serial 184-66575. The polymer magazine floorplate features the Ruger phoenix logo and Ruger stamping; the original manual is present and shows Ruger model identification and warnings for the Mini-14/F. All visible markings appear factory applied and period correct for a stainless/folder Mini-14.
Barrel Length: Approximately 18½” (factory Mini-14 standard folding-carbine length)
Sights / Optics: Adjustable rear sight on top of the receiver; factory front blade sight. The top of the receiver has the interrupted top rail typical of factory folder models allowing the fitting of optics if desired.
Stock Configuration & Condition: Factory folding stock assembly with walnut forearm and metal folder hardware. The wood shows an even factory appearance with light handling marks only; the folding mechanism and hinge hardware present with clean edges and no apparent deformation. The folding stock appears to lock up square and true.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: Four magazines included. One 5-Rounder and three 30s. Magazines are period-correct steel/metal magazines finished to match the stainless receiver; they show only light handling marks and no visible feedlip damage.
Type of Finish: Stainless factory finish on metal components with a lightly textured, uniform appearance consistent with factory stainless treatment. Walnut furniture exhibits a smooth, factory-finished surface with an even tone.
Finish Originality: Finish appears to be original factory stainless and factory-applied stock finish; there are no signs of rebluing or aftermarket refinishing on the receiver or barrel. The walnut shows no evidence of heavy sanding or re-staining.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: Very good to excellent — cosmetically close to new-in-box. Metal surfaces show the soft, uniform look of factory stainless with only light handling marks and no dents or gouges. Wood furniture is straight and free of cracks or repairs. The folding hardware and pins are intact and appear unaltered. The original box and manual are included and the box is hand-notated with the matching serial.
Mechanics: The Mini-14’s simple fixed-piston gas system and rotating bolt design give a reliable, easy-to-maintain action; the folding stock does not alter the operating system. On cursory mechanical check the action cycles smoothly by hand, the safety and trigger are functional, and the magazine latch/feeding geometry appears correct. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories: Original Ruger box (hand-marked with serial), owner’s manual, and four magazines included.
Our Assessment:
This stainless Ruger Mini-14/F factory folder, SN 184-66575, represents one of the most desirable commercial configurations of the Mini-14. The combination of stainless steel construction, walnut furniture, and the folding stock made these instantly recognizable in the 1980s as both a rugged carbine and a compact, transportable design.
This rifle is in excellent condition with original finish, a sharp and bright bore, and clean stock hardware, appearing very close to unissued. The inclusion of its original serialized box, paperwork, and four correct magazines adds significantly to its appeal for collectors.
Ruger’s Mini-14 is mechanically simple, based on the proven Garand/M14 system with a rotating bolt and piston-driven gas system. This ensures reliability, ease of maintenance, and smooth operation. As a collector piece, the factory folder configuration has become one of the most sought-after Mini-14 variants. This example checks every box: originality, condition, completeness, and desirability. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
