Tried hitting a distant target with your Mini 14 and thought, “Man, I could really use a better scope for this?” You’re not alone! Whether you are hunting, plinking, or using it for home defense. The Mini 14 is a classic rifle that is versatile, dependable, and just plain fun to shoot. With the best scope for Mini 14, you can increase your accuracy to a new level.
Choosing the best scope can be difficult because so many are available, but don’t worry I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ve broken down the best scopes for the Mini 14. From high-end optics to more affordable options, to help you find the ideal scope for your needs and shooting style. Let’s get started!
Factors to consider when buying the Best Scope for Mini 14
Magnification
Frequently used for mid-range shooting, the Mini 14 is a multipurpose rifle. While a scope with a magnification of 4–12x or greater is better for precision shooting, one with a magnification of 1-6x or 3–9x is good for everyday use.
Reticle Type
Select a reticle based on your shooting preferences. Longer-range shots benefit from BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticles, while quick target acquisition is best served by a basic duplex reticle. A low-power variable optic (LPVO) can be a fantastic option if you like red dots.
Durability
Your scope should be able to withstand rough conditions, just like the Mini 14! To withstand recoil and rough use, look for scopes that are fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof, made of sturdy aluminum or aircraft-grade construction.
Eye Relief
To avoid scope bite, a good scope should have at least three inches of eye relief, especially for quick follow-up shots.
Field of View
For hunting and tactical shooting, a broader field of view (FOV) is perfect because it makes tracking moving targets easier.
Best Scope for Mini 14
1) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32
Specifications
- 2 – 7 x magnification
- 32 mm objective lens
- 4.57 – 16 mm exit pupil
- 12.6 – 42 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.9 – 4.7 in eye relief
- 1 in tube diameter
- 100 yds parallax
- Second focal plane
- Weighs 14.3 oz
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 is an affordable, dependable scope that works well with the Mini 14 for general shooting, hunting, and plinking. Its 2–7x magnification provides outstanding adaptability for close-to-mid-range encounters, making it perfect for target shooting at different distances or brush hunting. The fast-focus eyepiece guarantees quick and simple reticle adjustments, and its fully multi-coated lenses offer bright, clear images even in low light. The Crossfire II’s shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof design allows it to withstand harsh outdoor conditions without losing zero.
Its forgiving eye box and long eye relief also make target acquisition comfortable and easy, which lessens strain during prolonged shooting sessions. The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 is a great option if you’re searching for a scope for your Mini 14 that is reasonably priced, long-lasting, and simple to use.
Pros
- Clear and bright optics
- Versatile 2-7x magnificatioN
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof
- Quick and easy reticle focusing
- Affordable price point
- Smooth and Precise Turrets
- The second focal plane reticle maintains a consistent size
Cons
- The reticle is not illuminated
2) Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 ACSS
Specifications
- 1 – 6 x magnification
- 24 mm objective lens diameter
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 4 – 9 mm exit pupil
- 110 – 19.3 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.3 – 3.5 in eye relief
- Weighs 16.9 oz
- Second focal plane
Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 ACSS adds accuracy and versatility to the Mini 14, making it ideal for hunting, dynamic shooting, and tactical applications. You can quickly engage targets at close range with its 1-6x magnification, but you still have enough zoom for mid-range shots. The ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle is the most notable feature. It helps shooters make accurate shots without requiring complicated calculations by providing wind holds range estimation, and bullet drop compensation.
In low light, its illuminated reticle improves visibility, and its fully multi-coated lenses transmit light and provide exceptional clarity. This scope’s robust, shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof design allows it to handle recoil and challenging conditions easily. For hunting, competition, or home defense, the Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 ACSS provides the ideal combination of speed, accuracy, and durability at a cost-effective price.
Pros
- ACSS reticle
- 6x zoom range
- Rugged & durable
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Budget-friendly
- True 1x magnification
Cons
- None
3) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40
Specifications
- 3 – 9 x magnification
- 40 mm objective lens
- 4.7 mm exit pupil
- 33.1 – 13.6 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 4.2 – 3.7 in eye relief
- Weighs 12.2 oz
- Second focal plane
- 1 in tube diameter
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 riflescope is ideal for improving your Mini 14’s accuracy. This scope’s 3–9x magnification balances mid-range accuracy and close-range maneuverability, making it a great option for target shooting, hunting, and general use. It has Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System, which improves contrast and brightness in low light, making it easier to see during hunts in the early morning or late evening.
The shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof design guarantees that it can withstand challenging outdoor conditions, and the scratch-resistant lenses offer exceptional clarity. Target acquisition is quick and comfortable, even in rapid-fire situations, thanks to its long eye relief and forgiving eye box. The VX-Freedom 3-9×40 is an excellent all-purpose scope that is made to last and is supported by Leupold’s renowned durability and lifetime warranty. It goes well with the Mini 14.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Versatile 3-9x magnification
- Twilight light management system
- Durable & weatherproof
- Lightweight design
- Crisp, edge-to-edge clarity
- Easy windage & elevation adjustments
Cons
- No illuminated reticle
4) Burris Scout 2-7×32
Specifications
- 2 – 7 x magnification
- 39 mm objective lens
- 4.6 – 13 mm exit pupil
- 8 – 23 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 9.2 – 12 in eye relief
- Weighs 13 oz
- Second focal plane
- 1 in tube diameter
The Burris Scout 2-7×32 scope was created especially for scout rifles and is a perfect fit for the Mini 14 in a forward-mounted configuration. Its prolonged eye relief enables shooters to acquire targets quickly and shoot with both eyes open, improving situational awareness, which is essential for tactical or hunting applications. This scope’s 2-7x magnification provides the versatility required for accurate mid-range engagements as well as fast close-range shots.
The Ballistic Plex reticle offers straightforward, efficient holdover points for increased accuracy at different distances, and the fully multi-coated lenses guarantee bright, clear images even in difficult lighting situations. Because of its shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof design, the Burris Scout can endure severe weather and significant recoil without losing zero. The Burris Scout 2-7×32 is an excellent option if you’re searching for a tough, dependable, and scout-style optic to improve the performance of your Mini 14.
Pros
- Extended eye relief
- Versatile magnification
- Ballistic plex reticle
- Durable construction
- Clear, bright optics
- Lightweight & compact
Cons
- None
5) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24
Specifications
- 1 – 8 x magnification
- 24 mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 14.1 – 113.6 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.9 in eye relief
- Weighs 1.49 lb
- 125 yds parallax
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is a fast-targeting, multipurpose LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) that works incredibly well with the Mini 14 in dynamic shooting situations, hunting, and tactical applications. Its 6x zoom offers sufficient power for mid-range accuracy, while its true 1x magnification enables fast, both-eyes-open close-up shooting. The illuminated AR-BDC3 reticle is perfect for fast, precise shots at different distances because it is made for quick target acquisition and provides holdovers for bullet drop compensation.
Even in low light, the Strike Eagle’s fully multi-coated lenses produce crisp, bright images. The fast-focus eyepiece and ample eye relief make it easy to use, and the shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof design guarantees durability in challenging conditions. Whether you use your Mini 14 for hunting, competitive shooting, or home defense, the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is a dependable, high-performance scope that improves accuracy and speed.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Rugged & durable
- Fast-focus eyepiece
- Low profile turrets
- True 1x magnification
- 8x zoom range
Cons
- None
6) Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9×40
Specifications
- 3 – 9 x magnification
- 40 mm objective lens
- 4.4 – 13.3 mm exit pupil
- 33.8 – 11.3 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.6 – 3.2 in eye relief
- Weighs 13.4 oz
- Second focal plane
The Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9×40 is a high-end, combat-tested riflescope that gives the Mini 14 unparalleled clarity, toughness, and low-light capabilities. Its 3–9x magnification, which is ideal for hunting, tactical shooting, and general-purpose use, provides accurate shots at longer ranges and rapid target acquisition at lower power. The unique feature of this scope is its tritium and fiber optic illumination system, which ensures the best visibility in all lighting conditions by automatically adjusting the aiming point’s brightness without the need for batteries.
The shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof design guarantees tough dependability in challenging conditions, and the multi-coated lenses provide exceptional clarity and light transmission. It is comfortable for long shooting sessions thanks to its forgiving eye box and ample eye relief. For your Mini 14, the Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9×40 is an excellent option that works well in any situation if you’re searching for a high-end, battery-free, and incredibly dependable scope.
Pros
- Dual illuminated and battery-free
- The SFP design maintains a constant reticle size
- Versatile 3-9x magnification
- Durable construction to withstand recoil
- High-quality optics
- Comfortable and generous eye relief
- Quick target acquisition
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof
Cons
- None
See also:
Best Nightforce Scope for Hunting
Best Scope for Mini 14 FAQs
What is the best magnification for a Mini 14 scope?
Depending on your use case, yes. For close to mid-range shooting, a 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO is ideal, whereas a 3-9x or 4-12x scope is better for hunting and precision.
Can you put a scope on a Mini 14?
Indeed! Although the Mini 14 has scope mounting options, scope rings or a Picatinny rail adapter may be required for secure mounting, depending on the model.
Is an LPVO or red dot better for the Mini 14?
A red dot works best for close-range shooting and quick target acquisition. Low Power Variable Optics, or LPVOs, are a better option if you want versatility for both close and mid-range shots.
What is the best reticle type for a Mini 14 scope?
While a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticle aids in longer-range shots, a basic duplex reticle is excellent for everyday use. An illuminated reticle or red dot can enhance visibility in low light when used for tactical or defensive purposes.
Does the Mini 14 have a lot of recoil?
Because of the Mini 14’s moderate recoil, it’s crucial to select a scope that offers at least three inches of eye relief to prevent scope bite.
See also:
Conclusion
By selecting the appropriate scope, your Mini 14’s accuracy, adaptability, and overall shooting experience can all be greatly improved. Whether you want to use it for home defense, hunting, or target practice, there is an optic that will work well for you.
The best scope will help you make the most of this classic rifle, whether it’s an LPVO for tactical versatility or a regular 3-9x scope for hunting. Hopefully, this guide will help you make a better choice. Now, pick your favorite scope, mount it, and start shooting with your Mini 14 more effectively!
See also: