TexasCHLforum.com

If you're set on a Mini, older Minis with the .562 barrel aren't very accurate past the second or third shot. The new Minis with the larger .77 tapered to .625 barrels are getting about 1.5-2 MOA (about $650 new). The target model can get 1-1.5 MOA (about $750). Same or better is possible for earlier Minis that steps have been taken to improve barrel harmonics (shorter barrel, adding a flash hider, retorquing the gas block, adding Accu-strut http://www.accu-strut.com, etc). A good trigger job and bedding help considerably as well.

Other things to consider. The Mini is a solid platform and fun to shoot but you can't modify/customize it like you can the AR. Changing the stock, hard guard (with Ulimak or similar rail), and adding flash hider are about the extent of the changes that can be made and options are very limited. Good Mini mags are expensive when you can find them.

If plinking or the occasional coyote (or the like) shot on a ranch is the priority, a used Mini for around $400 fits the bill nicely. If multiple-shot accuracy is a priority, then you're approaching AR cost to achieve the same results. If you factor in the cost of several mags, a used AR for around $750 may be a better investment in the long run.