Exclusive Video: Ruger’s New Suppressor-Ready 300 Blackout Mini-14

While the AR-15 has become the go-to patrol rifle for the vast majority of law enforcement agencies, some departments prefer a rifle that looks a little less like the currently issued battle rifle. Like it or not, politics plays into to these choices, and perception is very important for some agencies.

• RELATED STORY: Ruger Makes Mini-14 Tactical Rifle Available in 300 Blackout

One of the alternatives for many years has been the Ruger Mini-14. With its accuracy and reliability, this platform remains a favorite for many. While it’s currently chambered in 5.56mm NATO, Ruger has created a version in 300 Blackout, a cartridge that has taken the tactical rifle market by storm.

The Mini-14 utilizes an action similar to the Garand’s, with a right-side-mounted charging handle and a long-stroke fixed piston operating system.

The 300 BLK Mini-14 features a cold-hammer-forged, 16.12-inch barrel with a 1-in-7-inch twist rate and a flash suppressor. The muzzle also sports 5/8×24 threading for adding a sound suppressor, muzzle brakes and other devices.

Weighing in at 6.75 pounds unloaded, the Mini-14 is very handy, and its black synthetic stock is very durable.

The rifle sports a fixed front blade sight and an adjustable rear aperture sight, and my test rifle came with a scope mount that was perfect for sights and optics, including the Trijicon RMR I used during testing. It also comes with two 20-round magazines.

I also mounted a SureFire flashlight, and I ran the rifle with a few EliteIron accessories, including the company’s new BattleDog sound suppressor, as well as just the Bravo 1 muzzle brake with a cover.

• RELATED STORY: Gun Review: The Battle-Ready Ruger AR-556

Check out the video below to see the new Ruger Mini-14 in action, and keep your eyes peeled for a full review in an upcoming issue of GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT. To subscribe, visit Tactical-life.com/subscribe.

For more information, please visit Ruger.com.