I have an older Ruger Mini-14 that is a standard non-ranch model that I want to put a scout scope mount on.  One that replaces the top handguard.  

What is the best one for the money?

Ultimak.  Well built, anchors into the mechanism with a clamp and the top of the gas block.

ETA:  but that's more of the base, less of the mount.  If I was doing anything other than getting a RDS as low as possible, my mount/ring solution tends to be LaRue if they make something that does what I need it to do.

+1 for the Ultimak! Had 2 of them on a pair of Mini's I used to have. Works great and if using a QD base you have your irons right back in a second if thr RDS dumps on you.

My experience, having tried all of such mounts, is that the Ultimak mount allows lowest possible mounting of the optic, which is absolutely essential in obtaining a good, quick, natural cheek weld.  The Ultimak is fully "see-over", with OEM iron sights.

Nothing better at present, IMHO.  Ultimak, like any similar scout mount, stiffens the pencil barrel a little bit, which is all to the good.

Mfr of Accu-Stut devices advises that single-clamp versions (pictured above in this thread) are not as effective as double-clamp units.  "Will fit full-length barrels, however accurizing effect may be less pronounced."

"X-Drill" double-clamp model shaves a little weight while still being as rigid as non-drilled models, as per mfr.

Disclaimer; no financial interest.

Thanks everyone