Wait a second..where did all the mini 14 haters go?
If Norinco made the mini... it would be taking a beating.
I had a mini14 target. I tried the sparta stock for it. I did not like it at all.
I have shot a few T97. I found it surprisingly pointable, however unfortunately two of the three I shot had FTF issues.
I now have a T97 on the way, I am excited for it.
So, what do you want?
Mini 14 Pros:
reliable
can be accurate (target model)
classic
proven
Good safety and Mag release positions
Cons
Heavy - target model
proprietary mags limit capacity and add cost
proprietary scope mounts/rings adds expense.
T97 Pros
Bullpup compact package
AR-15 mags (LAR and Beowulf) BIG ADVANTAGE
FTU upgrade adds optics flexibility for red dot magnifier combo that mini lacks (Costs money)
Cons
Stupid mag release and safety (Under development by T97.ca)
reliability may need some tinkering.
stock platform lacks optic mounting options.
Barrel-sight relation is high.
Really other than caliber these guns do not have a lot in common.
I prefer the T97 mainly because it uses LAR and Beowulf mags.
And hopefully the T97.ca LHG is released soon to fix the safety and hopefully the mag release.