FS: Early Ruger Mini-14 for the collector or shooter.

FOR ADDITIONAL PICTURES VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: https://www.israelarms.com/Ruger-Mini-14-Early-Model-with-Wood-Handguard-p/180-64093.htm

Using the serial number as a reference this is a very early Mini-14 manufactured in 1977. Another way to date these mini-14s is by the top handguard. The very early ones, like this one, had wooden upper handguards/barrel vents with the metal retaining clips, on the outside of the handguard. The next series 181-182 still had the wooden upper handguard but the retaining clip was on the underside, out of sight, of the upper handguard. I have posted a 182 series, also for sale, so you can compare the two if you are interested. Another feature of the early mini-14s was an external bolt lock-back.

Note:
Mini-14s made before 1978 are referred to as the “180” series as their serial numbers all begin with this prefix. After that period, the guns were redesigned slightly and moving forward are referred to as the “181” series to denote the new serial number range. These changes to these guns included a 1 in 10-inch twist from the original 1 in 12-inch. The 180 series mini-14s are becoming harder to find due to normal attrition so one day they may be the collector guns you wish you had bought. I have another one in my safe...just in case!

This mini-14 is in good condition showing normal use and minor handling marks.