I plan on getting a min-14 next. It is really light-weight, I think even lighter than my AR. For civilian use in the continental US, it should be fine. Plus, in wood, it is citizen friendly. Especially in stainess. Stainless is cool. I know that some anti-poaching units in Africa use the mini-14.
My friends have them, no jams. Cannot say that about my AR. Friends of mine who have come back from over there, bought AKs and minis. That says a bunch to me.