I'd like to have a .223 for a "beater" rifle; any opinions on which of these two would be less bad?

I know the SU-16 is made out of plastic, so let's get over that...question is, how does it compare to the Mini?

I know you can use AR mags in the SU-16, dont know about the quality of the rifle though.

can't speak for the SU-16, but the mini is one of the most durable rifles made. stainless mini with synthetic stock is hard to beat.

I've had a couple of Mini 14's and I now have a SU-16. The Mini's never were very accurate, but did always work and would most likely hold up to abuse or hard use better than the SU-16. The SU-16 is defineitly more accurate, but I think its purpose is more "special use" and is not meant to be used as a beater type rifle. A back pack or truck, car, boat, or plane gun thats always there and ready to go, I think is more its purpose in life. If you can deal with the Mini's so-so accuracy, I think you'd be better served with it.

AR180B, or a CAV15.

you can put together a AR with used parts from the EE for pretty cheap.

hey look I am excited I have a pic below my user name now. Woohoo but it is only in this thread?

I live in the People's Republic of Kalifornia, so the mini and the SU-16 are the only choices for a semi-auto .223 available to me.

Quoted: I've had a couple of Mini 14's and I now have a SU-16. The Mini's never were very accurate, but did always work and would most likely hold up to abuse or hard use better than the SU-16. The SU-16 is defineitly more accurate, but I think its purpose is more "special use" and is not meant to be used as a beater type rifle. A back pack or truck, car, boat, or plane gun thats always there and ready to go, I think is more its purpose in life. If you can deal with the Mini's so-so accuracy, I think you'd be better served with it.

I love reviews when then can personally compare them side by side!

Good job AK!!!!!

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