Any weapon is better than none, and Ruger is famous for reliability and quality. Those who decry the weakness of the 5.56mm have never been on the receiving end of one. I've never actually been deliberately shot at by one, but I've been in an arms room when an accidental discharge took place! I can honestly tell you that no one in the immediate vicinity stood there brave and tall, thinking..."oh well, it's just one of those pipsqueak 5.56's... Surely the round has less power than a 7.62, but I've never seen anyone voluntarily stand in the line of fire to prove that assertion.
Having said that, every weapon has its niche. I would far more prefer a 12 gauge pump or auto, or even a large bore pistol, in CQB situation. If you live in a remote rural area where you may need longer shots to defend your property, and will rely on the same weapon for the taking of game in a "balloon goes up," scenario, the Mini-14 would be hard to beat. All in all, it depends on one's comfort level, familiarity and ability to repetatively train with the weapon.
Well, I have a 12 gauge riot gun (Rem Model 870), an FAL FN .308, a couple of M1 Garands, etc. I have some guns which fire the 7.62 X 39 mm round, and a MAK 90 that fires the .223 as well. I really collect military surplus rifles, its a hobby. I think that I am well armed if it should be necessary to defend home and hearth. I have a pipsqueek Baretta Tomcat .32 ACP loaded with silvertips that I shove into my pants pocket when I go out shopping or walking. I could carry a larger pistol/revolver if I wished, but I like the easy carry of the Baretta Tomcat.
I think that the .223 round would be especially good for my wife.