OK Ruger experts - what does Mini-14/20GBK mean?

[ScottinTexas]

I know the 20 = 20 round mag.

"GB" = Government Bayonet.

Does the "K" mean stainless?

Because if it does, then why does my letter from Ruger show it shipped as Mini-14/20GBK in November of 1990....but the gun is all blued receiver, barrel, etc.?

I'm really confused.

 

[colt_model_01]

Not too sure, but "K" means "short" in most firearm/ ammo designations. .380ACP was called 9mm Auto K in early M11 .380's In HK firearms, "K" means Short version of the original. MP5 is the standard version of the HK 9mm full size sub gun, like a short barrel HK94. The MP5K is the same gun, but basically an SP89 full auto.

 

[misterglock]

I was told by a rep at Ruger that the "K" designated their stainless Mini's and AC's. If you call them, with the serial number, they will tell you the mfg. date and other information. I just called recently, and got the info on my AC. However, colt_model_01 is absolutely correct that "K" does also stand for short or "Kurtz." It could mean a short version of a gun, or refer to a cartridge, too. The M11/380 SMG I owned was marked "9mm" and "K" or 9mm short for 380 ACP.

 

[ac556ruger]

There is no proof GB means gov bayonet.

Its also believed it means government barrel.

I believe it means government barrel.

Ruger documentation does not provide a meaning.

K BEFORE indicates SS. K AFTER indicates folding model. F AFTER and K AFTER were officially used by Ruger on the folding models meaning the same thing being the folding model.

 

[KickStand]

Basically kac556 means stainless. Ac556k blued 13". The location of the K is key.
With regards to a 13" folder, I think Ruger went back and forth. Ac556k or Ac556F could be a 13" folder.
It makes More sense in my option that GB stands for government barrel.
The barrels have a bayonet lug, a threaded barrel with a flash hider and a grenade launcher. So for me government bayonet doesn't make as much sense.

With a mini 14 20 GBk that should mean mini 14, 20 round mag, government barrel and stainless.
The k on the mini 14 would automatically mean stainless bc they didn't make a semi 13" SBR.

MY OPINION.

 

[ScottinTexas]

There is no proof GB means gov bayonet.

Its also believed it means government barrel.

I believe it means government barrel.

Ruger documentation does not provide a meaning.

K BEFORE indicates SS. K AFTER indicates folding model. F AFTER and K AFTER were officially used by Ruger on the folding models meaning the same thing being the folding model.

Given the carbine in question is a blue semi with factory folder, standard carbine length barrel with lug and side mounted upper swivel the “K” at the end must mean folder.
Unfortunately the older factory folders I have were all given an “F” to designate folding stock.
Most confusing.

 

[ScottinTexas]

Heard from Ruger Customer Service AND the folks who produce the factory letters. Short story - they goofed, my 181-sereis GB is correct as is and they will send me a letter that shows what their records actually show: 1979 Mini-14/20GB.

Something to keep in mind if you have a Ruger letter that seems off.