It depends on when his Mini-14 was made. When they were first introduced back in the 1970's, they had a 1:12 twist just like the SP1 AR's. I think they also made them for a short period in the mid-late 1980's that used a 1:7 twist. Then finally they went to the 1:9 twist. I am pretty sure most of the ones made in the 1990's have the 1:9. To get the exact dates, you might look around the Ruger website or email them. They should be able to tell you and your friend when the gun was made and what twist it uses based on the serial number.
If it is a 1:9 twist and his gun won't stabilize them, buy the remaining portion of his rounds and have him buy some of the Black Hills reloads. The 68/69 gr should both work well with the 1:9 twist rate. If he has one of the older 1:12 twist barrels, he's pretty much screwed and will have to stick to the light stuff, 60 gr and under for best performance. I wouldn't recommend it for defensive use, but for pure accuracy, the Black Hills 52 gr BTHP is often highly regarded as a very accurate load. Hopefully one these loads will cover his rifle. But being he has a Mini-14, he shouldn't expect it to throw lead in tight patterns like most AR's. Mini's aren't exactly known for their accuracy.
-Charging Handle