Mini 14 firing pins have gotten a bad rap lately.  They have been known to fracture the tip but can be repaired successfully with the correct process.


There is available, in limited quantities and only through the


Ruger Factory or two selected gunsmiths,  a new design firing pin.

Please see the pics at the bottom of this page.    


In my opinion, there is no better firing pin than one produced by the Ruger Factory.   Fitting is required and necessary for safety and function.





There are aftermarket firing pins but seem to be of questionable material and hardness.  They are all two piece with slightly different designs.  Each design has ti’s faults.  They are still good to have as a spare backup in case of emergency until a factory FP can be obtained or the original stainless factory FP is re-tipped.  This is a a specific process using hardenable 17-4 TIG rod and heat treating H900 and back to factory specs.


Shows Factory FP above an aftermarket one and a first failure at making one using 4340. 197 & 181 bolts above
Shows Factory FP above an aftermarket one and a first failure at making one using 4340. 197 & 181 bolts above
Pic of early tries to make a Mini FP
Pic of early tries to make a Mini FP
Showing formed drill bits to simulate the factory FP contours to make a master fixture for measuring critical areas.
Showing formed drill bits to simulate the factory FP contours to make a master fixture for measuring critical areas.
Aftermarket FP failure
Aftermarket FP failure
Different stages of development to make 4340 and 17-4 SS firing pins
Different stages of development to make 4340 and 17-4 SS firing pins
Offset turning of 4340 as a start in manufacturing the first prototype.
Offset turning of 4340 as a start in manufacturing the first prototype.
Tools & fixtures needed to hold while working with small items to machine
Tools & fixtures needed to hold while working with small items to machine

Top shows original Ruger Mini 14 Stainless steel firing pin from a 197 series Ranch Rifle.

Below is the current updated FP Ruger now uses.  Note the wrap around shaft with a groove cut into it giving rigidity.

Proven durable over the years unless corosive primers are used or fitting was done incorrectly and not leaving clearence at the tail of the FP causing stress on the tip having the hammer pushing on the tail while the tip is still in the primer pocket.  IMHO.