I would 2nd the use of a SKS or AK-47 over the ruger. The Mini's just do not have a great history of accuracy..........unless you are willing to do a lot of modifications on them. For the money, a surplus SKS will get as good or better accuracy than you'll ever get out of a mini.
AR's are great too - but you have to have the $$$ to play with those.

Or better yet, just to punch paper and "play" a bit - the new Beretta CX-4s are a GREAT toy. Accurate out to at least 75yds and they can run though some ammo. And now that the .45 & .40 versions are out to go with the 9mm - the hits keep on coming.