Sold a mini over the summer and dont miss it a bit, accuracy was pretty poor. I think there are better choices for every task a mini would be used for. For just plinking/defense, Id go w/ a siaga or a WASR AK in 223 or even a remington 7615, cheaper and probably more accurate than a mini14. For a all around gun for hunting, etc.at longer ranges(100yd+) an AR15 would be the best choice.