[cpdiii]

Also, the mini line (of which I've owned three), was not very accurate

The original Mini-14 was a lovely rifle with a horrible barrel. At 100 yards with good ammo it was a 6 inch group. I sold it.

I have heard good things about the new Mini-14 with a descent barrel.

[LouAvul]

My minis (2 14s and 1 30) were minute of pie pan. The problem was the barrel taper where it comes out of the receiver. It was too thin and a harmonic vibration occurred. Barrel whip. There was an after market device called accu strut. It was supposed to stop the vibration.

The new minis have a thicker barrel at that point. They're supposed to give 1 inch groups at 100 yards. I might try another one someday.

[Myrddin]

I have the "ranch" stainless version. You're correct. The light barrel strings vertically as it warms. Mine has under 100 rds down the tube. I've considered accurizing it, but I shoot so infrequently that it doesn't strike me as a good way to spend money. I have other better .223 launchers that are genuine tack drivers.