Scope on an early Ruger Mini 14

[au_prospector]

Hello,

I have an early mini 14 ranch rifle made in the mid 1980's. I see pictures online with scoped mini 14's. I downloaded a manual from Ruger which tries to explain how to mount scope rings, but for the life of me I do not see any grooves or anything else to mount a weaver type ring on my rifle. The Ruger manual does not show pictures.

Any ideas?

[DnPRK]

Only Ranch rifles have the integral notches for Ruger rings. The traditional style Mini-14s don't have scope provisions.

I use a scout-type scope in quick detach rings and an Amega rail.
http://www.amegaranges.com/
http://www.ultimak.com/BuyMini.htm

I have use the type of mount that replaces the bolt catch cover, but found it to be too wobbly.

[Ray P]

Check this Gunblast site. The 11th, 12th & 17th photo on the right hand side show (11) a ranch rifle scope mount notch just forward of the rear sight; and (12 & 17), and proper location of the installed scope rings.

[au_prospector]

Yeah mine is an early mini 14, doesnt have the the scope mount notches that are shown in the pictures.

Thanks anyway!

[Sistema1927]

I had an early Mini 14 back in the 70's, and had my local gunsmith fabricate a mount that attached to the left side of the receiver. Yes, he had to drill and tap it, but that carbine with a Weaver V9 served me well for quite a few years until I stupidly sold it to pay for some schooling.

[Magnuumpwr]

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...Item=205189622
Check this out. What you are looking for is this mount and it attaches to the removable plate on the left side of the receiver.

[wally]

That might be OK, but see if you can still find one of the B-Square models made for the same purpose. I've got one and it works very well. It uses the side plate and replaces the rear sight.

[lwsimon]

I recommend an Ultimak rail and a "scout scope, pistol scope, reflex, or red-dot optic. Pricey, but worth it on an older Mini.