Pie, I think alot of EBR people still will give the Mini14 its dues but I have to agree somewhat that the Mini30 is really bashed upon quite a bit. I think it might be that people are trying to use the Mini30 for something its not when I say this I mean in a AK type of weapon. Of course neither Mini variant has the accuracy that alot of people want but I think of them mainly as plinker weapons not hunting even though I'm sure they would do fine on coyotes and other type animals. For $550 I'd have to pass on a Mini30 if your wanting a 7.62x39 weapon there are still MAK90's out there I just put one in layaway for $599, I personally would much rather have an AK type than a mini 30 heck I think the Saiga is a much better bang for your buck than a mini. Just my opinion