My T-9 jumps 18Ly with full cargo, but for me that jump range isnt a problem than that hideous turning rate.
No way im even looking the system map while jumping as i dont want find out that i have to do 180 degree turn because theres ELW somewhere..
But what comes to mining, i have done it since Elite was launched and find it one of the best relaxing chores around Elite universe.
Just me, my T-9 and thousands of rocks full of goodies.

But its not for everyone, i bet there will be dozens of cmdrs trying mining for the very first time at Jaq and after couple of runs quit, as it requires a bit of roleplaying to get your mood right..
If you do it only for the money, just forget it. Same as with exploration, you dont do it for the money.
(although i must be honest, i doubt i can do this on a daily basis for the next 3 weeks at Jaq without getting rock madness.. )