Ruger MINI-14 - Manual (Page 26)

3. Final reassembly of rifle:
a. Replace stock by inserting its front end into the gas block at a slight angle.
When the stock is correctly seated into the gas block, the stock can be
swung down into full contact with the receiver.
b. Insert the opened trigger housing assembly, safety “ON”, into the stock (the
hammer must be cocked prior to insertion). When fully seated, swing the
trigger guard fully into place until it locks shut. An audible “click” will be
heard when it is correctly locked. Cycle the slide handle and safety a few
times to be certain the components are correctly assembled. Put the safety
back “ON”.
c. Reinsert an empty magazine and fully withdraw slide. The bolt should lock
open automatically.
GUNS SHOULD NOT BE STORED LOADED!
REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
OF FIBERGLASS HANDGUARD
1. MAKE CERTAIN THE RIFLE CONTAINS NO CARTRIDGES AND THAT IT IS
POINTING IN A SAFE DIRECTION.
2. Remove the magazine. Leave the slide in the forward position.
3. With the rifle flat on its side, apply substantial thumb pressure, with both
thumbs, to the projecting underside of the handguard in the area of the
retaining spring. (The spring is located underneath the circular projection on
the top of the handguard.) The pressure should be applied so as to raise the
rear portion of the handguard first.
4. To replace the handguard, put the forward end of the handguard under the top
portion of the gas block (as far forward as possible) and squeeze the handguard
down over the barrel.
MAGAZINE INSPECTION AND CARE
Check the magazine frequently. The follower must move freely and have
adequate spring tension so that each cartridge is quickly raised to the feeding
position.
To test the spring tension, load one cartridge into the magazine and then firmly
press against the cartridge case. Remove your finger quickly. The cartridge
should instantly and fully move in to the feeding position. If it does not, the
magazine should be cleaned.
If cleaning does not restore proper spring tension,
do not use the magazine. (NOTE: After testing, remove the test cartridge).
When cleaning is necessary, use a solvent that will not rust the metal
components or adversely affect the plastic magazine bottom. The magazine may
be disassembled by placing a small screwdriver through the hole located in the
magazine bottom and depressing the magazine bottom retainer. Carefully use the
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