Sturm Ruger Mini-14 .223 18.5” Semi-Auto Rifle 182 Series Vintage
SOLD FOR: $855
WOA#: WY231030RS010
Make: Sturm Ruger
Model: Mini-14
Serial Number: 182-78955
Year of Manufacture: 1981-1982
Caliber: .223
Action Type: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Left side of the receiver is marked “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.
Barrel Length: 18.5”
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 wood 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 Excellent overall condition. There are no chips or cracks. The stock is nearly pristine. There are a few faint drag lines but are hardly perceptible.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 40rd .223 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 no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% 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 corrosion visible on the barrel and forend caps. The screw heads are sharp with some disassembly marks. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent 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 nylon sling, 3x Ruger factory 30 round magazines, 4x aftermarket 30 round magazines, and 2x aftermarket 40 round magazines.
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.
