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Ruger Mini-14 Gunsmithing Tools

The Ruger Mini-14 rifle is similar in design and operation to the M14 rifle of the U.S. military. Introduced in 1974, the Mini has evolved into several different styles. The ranch model is designed for hunting and taking to the field. A tactical model is available which features plastic stocks and a hand grip, along with a barrel shroud. There is also a model available for specialized target shooting. The Mini-14 basic chambering is for the .223 Remington but is also available in other cartridges. Having basic gunsmithing tools allows an owner to keep the Mini-14 in good working condition.
  1. Screwdrivers and Punches

    • The Mini-14 comes with a wide varieties of screws, plungers and pins, each requiring the right size tool to disassemble the firearm. Using the wrong tool can harm the Mini. For example, a wrong size screwdriver can slip from the slot and scrape along the side of the barrel, leaving a mar. Worse, it may cause the screw head to snap off, leaving the screw still in the rifle. Dedicated gunsmithing screwdrivers and punches come properly sized to fit the specific hardware on the Mini. Kits are available with multiple bits, requiring only one handle to work on the different areas.

    Files and Stones

    • Removing metal is an important part of gunsmithing and removing only the metal you want is critical to doing a job well. Installing aftermarket parts on a Mini-14 sometimes means changing the metal a little to make the parts fit. Stoning a gun means working the action and the trigger over with an abrasive stone to ensure the smoothest possible metal-over-metal contact. Files and stones come in a variety of sizes and cutting ability. Working on guns requires files and stones from coarse grit down to super-fine.

    Rotary Tools

    • A rotary grinding tool has become a standard part of the gunsmith's toolbox -- and is considered a professional gunsmith's best friend because of all the money he makes correcting amateur gunsmiths' mistakes with one. It is an immensely valuable tool for working on your Mini-14 but one inattentive slip can easily ruin a valuable part. A rotary tool works great for polishing the feed ramp to a mirror finish or grinding off metal parts. Having a full assortment of buffers, cut-off wheels and grinders gives you the ability to choose the correct one for the job.

    Cleaning

    • Cleaning the Mini-14 is an important part of practical, DIY gunsmithing. The gun gets fouled from burned powder, lead residue, dirt and dust. Various solvents take away the charred-on powder, lead, oil and grease leaving the gun ready to oil and lube for the next shooting trip. Some solvents have been around for decades and have proven themselves with millions of guns, while others are taking advantage of new chemical formulations. Stiff brushes, cloth wipes and the rods to push them through the barrel all carry the solvent and clean away the muck.


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