[Boonie]

For low cost and reliability, I’d look closely at the Ruger Mini-14 in .223 (5.56)

[KoRn]

"For low cost and reliability, I’d look closely at the Ruger Mini-14 in .223 (5.56)"

I have had both rifles, both an AR-15 and a mini. The AR-15 is far and away better than the Mini-14. I could only see getting a Mini-14 over an AR if cost was a real issue, and there was no other options.

[SJSAMPLE]

Lower cost? Maybe, slightly. AR mags are cheap, Mini-14 mags can be very expensive.

Reliablilty? Really? The AR has it over the Mini in every way.

Relatively cheap.
Reliable.
Accurate.
Configurable.

[Psalm 73]

".223 (5.56)"

You guys are gonna kill me for asking - but why do they write it like that - .223 is not the same as 5.56, and are not really interchangeable (although I think that .223 can, in a pinch, be used in 5.56 chamberings).
Or should I not have asked this question?

[Aut Pax Aut Bellum]

For low cost and reliability, I’d look closely at the Ruger Mini-14 in .223 (5.56)
Name a country that isn't a third world country that uses it....Name a mag other than a $50 twenty rounder MADE by Ruger that works 100%.
Model 1 or even M&A are good. Total assembly is not for a newbie, sorry, no offense. 20" is good, so's the 16". 1-9 twist for 55 grainers=cheapest ammo. Expect to spend over a grand. (mags+ storage ammo, practice ammo, sling, etc)