Sturm Ruger Mini-14 .223 18.5” Semi-Auto Rifle 182 Series Vintage
SOLD FOR: $1,025
WOA#: WY231206MW001
Make: Sturm Ruger
Model: Mini-14
Serial Number: 182-63652
Year of Manufacture: 1981-1982
Caliber: .223
Action Type: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Left side of the receiver is marked “24096-40 / 182-78955” and the rear left side of the receiver is marked “BEFORE USING GUN – READ WARNINGS IN / INSTRUCTION MANUAL AVAILABLE FREE FROM / STURM, RUGER, & CO., INC SOUTHPORT, CONN. U.S.A.”. The Ruger logo of the phoenix is on the left side of the receiver. Top of the receiver rear is marked “RUGER MINI-14 CAL. .223”. There is a proof on top of the receiver. There is a PR proof on top of the receiver.
Barrel Length: 18.5”. 20” with birdcage flash hider.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade and has a rear adjustable aperture sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is one piece wood with synthetic vented upper handguard, straight comb, steel buttplate, sling ring, and metal nose cap with sling ring. The LOP measures 12.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition. There are no chips or cracks. There are some scratches and scuffs as well as a few compression marks.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 20rd 5.56 Mini-14 magazine in Excellent condition
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is some minor erosion in the bore. The bore needs a good cleaning.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows wear along the rear sight surface and on the top of the bolt surface and carrier group. There is some erosion visible on the front sight, charging handle, forend caps, and flash hider. The screw heads are sharp with some disassembly marks. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a total of one magazine and a soft case.
Our Assessment: The Mini-14 182 Series, a remarkable iteration in the lineage of Ruger firearms, stands as a testament to American ingenuity in rifle design. Introduced in the 1980s, this series was Ruger’s foray into the realm of lightweight, semi-automatic rifles, drawing inspiration from the classic M14 and M1 Garand, yet distinct in its innovations. The 182 Series, in particular, marked a significant milestone with its improved barrel and sight adjustments, refining the accuracy and reliability that the Mini-14 range was already renowned for.
Constructed with a cold hammer-forged barrel, the 182 Series provides exceptional durability and a prolonged life, a feature that is highly valued among enthusiasts and collectors alike. The rifle’s simple, rugged Garand-style action, employing a fixed-piston gas system and self-cleaning moving gas cylinder, gives it a remarkable edge in reliability under varied environmental conditions. This aspect not only makes it a highly sought-after piece for collectors but also a practical choice for hunters and ranchers.
The Mini-14 182 Series also boasts a classic aesthetic appeal with its sleek, traditional rifle lines, and a polished wooden stock that harks back to an era of craftsmanship and quality. This series, while offering advancements in function, does not stray from the timeless look that Ruger enthusiasts admire. Its balance of form and function, coupled with its storied history and Ruger’s reputation for quality, makes the Mini-14 182 Series a compelling addition to any firearm collection, equally prized for its performance, reliability, and aesthetic appeal. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
