181 series Mini 14 questions [Archive]

Johnnyvegas

11-12-2005, 01:32

Hey all, just was given my Fathers Mini 14 (181 xxxxx serial #), and know the newer ones leave much to be desired accuracy wise. This thing is probably 28-30 yars old, and fired very little, has the old style
garand-esque peep sight, wood handguard, and aluminum buttplate (newer ones have the lame folding rear sight, and plastic all over). Are the old ones any better in the accuracy department, and did they use 5.56x45 nato chambers back then, or should I stick with civilian .223 Rem. ammo???

Thanks guys!

John

unit 900

11-13-2005, 17:31

I've got a series 180 mini. I haven't noticed any accuracy difference between it and newer models. I always used the 5.56 ammo I purchased for AR 15 use with no problems. I put a combo AR type front sight and flash hider as well as a ghost ring aperture rear sight. That was a very nice combination and I have been happy with it.