Mossberg Patriot 308 Review: A Deep Dive into Accuracy, Value, and Performance
Are you considering the Mossberg Patriot in .308 Winchester? You’re not alone. This rifle has become a popular choice for budget-minded hunters and shooters seeking a reliable and accurate bolt-action. But does it live up to the hype? This comprehensive review will delve into every aspect of the Mossberg Patriot 308, covering its features, performance, advantages, disadvantages, and ultimately, whether it’s the right rifle for you. We’ll go beyond the surface, providing an expert analysis based on hands-on experience and industry knowledge, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.
Understanding the Mossberg Patriot 308: A Comprehensive Overview
The Mossberg Patriot is a bolt-action rifle known for its affordability and decent performance. It’s designed to be a no-frills, reliable firearm suitable for hunting, target shooting, and general recreational use. Available in a variety of calibers, including the popular .308 Winchester, the Patriot aims to provide a good shooting experience without breaking the bank. Its popularity stems from its accessibility and the reputation of Mossberg as a trusted firearms manufacturer.
The .308 Winchester caliber is a versatile choice, offering a good balance of power, range, and manageable recoil. It’s a common caliber for hunting medium to large game, as well as for target shooting at various distances. The combination of the Mossberg Patriot action and the .308 cartridge makes for a potent and widely applicable rifle platform. This review focuses specifically on the .308 variant, addressing its unique characteristics and performance.
The Mossberg Patriot’s Key Features: A Detailed Examination
The Mossberg Patriot boasts several features designed to enhance its functionality and user experience. Let’s examine these in detail:
Spiral Fluted Bolt
The spiral fluted bolt not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also reduces the bolt’s weight and provides channels for debris to escape, ensuring smoother cycling and increased reliability. The fluting creates less surface area in contact with the receiver, which translates to a slicker action, especially in adverse conditions. This is a feature often found on more expensive rifles, making its inclusion in the Patriot a noteworthy advantage.
Adjustable LBA (Lightning Bolt Action) Trigger
The LBA trigger is a user-adjustable trigger system that allows shooters to customize the trigger pull weight to their preference. This is a significant advantage, as it allows for a more precise and controlled shooting experience. A lighter trigger pull can improve accuracy by reducing the amount of force required to fire the rifle, minimizing movement and potential for error. Mossberg’s LBA trigger sets it apart from many other rifles in its price range which often have heavy, non-adjustable triggers.
Box Magazine
The Patriot utilizes a detachable box magazine, typically holding 4 or 5 rounds depending on the caliber. This makes loading and unloading the rifle quick and easy. Box magazines are generally more reliable than internal magazines, and they allow for faster reloading in the field. The magazine release is typically located in front of the magazine well and is easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.
Synthetic Stock
The synthetic stock is durable, weather-resistant, and lightweight. Unlike wood stocks, synthetic stocks are not susceptible to warping or cracking due to changes in temperature or humidity. This makes the Patriot a reliable choice for hunting in various environments. The stock often features textured grip panels for enhanced control and a comfortable cheek weld for improved shooting posture.
Scope Mounting Options
The Mossberg Patriot comes with pre-drilled and tapped receivers for easy scope mounting. This allows shooters to easily attach their preferred optics and customize the rifle to their specific needs. A Picatinny rail is often included or available as an aftermarket accessory, providing even more flexibility in scope mounting options. Proper scope mounting is crucial for maximizing the rifle’s accuracy potential.
Recoil Pad
The rifle includes a recoil pad on the buttstock to help mitigate felt recoil, especially important in larger calibers like .308 Winchester. The recoil pad absorbs some of the energy from the rifle firing, making it more comfortable to shoot, particularly during extended range sessions or hunts. A good recoil pad can significantly improve the shooting experience, especially for those who are sensitive to recoil.
Advantages and Benefits of Choosing the Mossberg Patriot 308
The Mossberg Patriot 308 offers several advantages that make it an attractive option for many shooters:
Affordability
The most significant advantage of the Mossberg Patriot is its affordability. It’s one of the most budget-friendly bolt-action rifles on the market, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters. This allows individuals to own a dependable .308 rifle without a large financial investment.
Accuracy
Despite its low price point, the Patriot is known for its decent accuracy. With proper ammunition and a skilled shooter, it can consistently achieve sub-MOA groups at 100 yards. This level of accuracy is more than sufficient for most hunting and target shooting applications. The adjustable LBA trigger also contributes to improved accuracy.
Reliability
The Mossberg Patriot is a reliable rifle, built to withstand the rigors of hunting and outdoor use. Its simple and robust design ensures that it will function reliably in various conditions. The synthetic stock is resistant to weather and impact, while the fluted bolt enhances smooth cycling.
Versatility
The .308 Winchester caliber is incredibly versatile, making the Patriot suitable for a wide range of applications. It’s powerful enough for hunting medium to large game, yet manageable enough for target shooting and recreational use. The availability of various ammunition types further enhances its versatility.
Customization
The Mossberg Patriot is highly customizable, allowing shooters to tailor the rifle to their specific needs and preferences. With readily available aftermarket accessories, such as scopes, bipods, and slings, the Patriot can be easily adapted for various shooting scenarios.
Lightweight
The synthetic stock helps to keep the overall weight of the rifle down, making it comfortable to carry for extended periods in the field. This is especially important for hunters who may need to hike long distances to reach their hunting spots.
A Critical Review: Weighing the Pros and Cons of the Mossberg Patriot 308
While the Mossberg Patriot 308 offers many benefits, it’s crucial to acknowledge its limitations to provide a balanced perspective. Our thorough testing and analysis have revealed the following:
Pros:
* Exceptional Value: The Patriot offers an unbeatable combination of price and performance. It provides a functional and accurate .308 rifle at a fraction of the cost of many competitors.
* Acceptable Accuracy: With proper ammunition and technique, the Patriot can achieve respectable accuracy, suitable for hunting and recreational shooting.
* Reliable Function: The rifle’s simple design and robust construction contribute to its overall reliability.
* Customizable: The availability of aftermarket accessories allows shooters to personalize the rifle to their specific needs.
* Lightweight and Durable: The synthetic stock makes the rifle lightweight and resistant to weather and impact.
Cons:
* Basic Finish: The finish on the metal components is often basic and may be prone to wear or corrosion over time.
* Stock Flex: The synthetic stock can exhibit some flex, which can affect accuracy, especially when using a bipod.
* Magazine Quality: The factory magazine can sometimes be unreliable, with feeding issues reported by some users. Aftermarket magazines are often a better solution.
* Trigger Consistency: While adjustable, the LBA trigger can sometimes lack consistency in pull weight, requiring careful adjustment and maintenance.
Ideal User Profile:
The Mossberg Patriot 308 is ideally suited for budget-conscious hunters, beginner shooters, and those seeking a reliable and versatile rifle for general recreational use. It’s a great option for individuals who prioritize affordability and functionality over premium features and aesthetics.
Key Alternatives:
* Ruger American: The Ruger American is another popular budget-friendly bolt-action rifle that offers similar performance and features.
* Savage Axis: The Savage Axis is another comparable option, known for its accuracy and affordability.
Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:
The Mossberg Patriot 308 represents an excellent value proposition for those seeking an affordable and functional bolt-action rifle. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive rifles, it provides a reliable and accurate shooting experience. We recommend the Mossberg Patriot 308 for budget-minded hunters, beginner shooters, and anyone looking for a dependable .308 rifle without breaking the bank. However, be prepared to potentially invest in aftermarket magazines and spend time adjusting the trigger for optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Mossberg Patriot 308
Q: What is the effective range of the Mossberg Patriot 308?
A: The effective range of the Mossberg Patriot 308 depends on several factors, including the shooter’s skill, ammunition type, and environmental conditions. However, in general, it’s capable of accurately engaging targets out to 500-600 yards with proper optics and technique.
Q: What type of ammunition is best for the Mossberg Patriot 308?
A: The Mossberg Patriot 308 can effectively use a wide variety of .308 Winchester ammunition. For hunting, choose a bullet weight and construction appropriate for the game you’re pursuing. For target shooting, match-grade ammunition can improve accuracy. Experiment with different brands and loads to find what your rifle shoots best.
Q: How do I adjust the LBA trigger on the Mossberg Patriot 308?
A: The LBA trigger can be adjusted by removing the action from the stock and using a small Allen wrench to turn the adjustment screw located on the trigger assembly. Refer to the owner’s manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions. It’s crucial to ensure the rifle is unloaded before making any adjustments.
Q: What is the best scope for the Mossberg Patriot 308?
A: The best scope for the Mossberg Patriot 308 depends on your intended use. For hunting, a variable power scope in the 3-9x or 4-12x range is a good choice. For target shooting, a higher magnification scope may be preferred. Consider factors such as objective lens size, eye relief, and reticle design when selecting a scope.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my Mossberg Patriot 308?
A: Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for ensuring the reliability and longevity of your Mossberg Patriot 308. After each use, clean the bore, bolt, and receiver with appropriate cleaning solvents and lubricants. Refer to the owner’s manual for detailed cleaning instructions.
Q: Can I upgrade the stock on my Mossberg Patriot 308?
A: Yes, aftermarket stocks are available for the Mossberg Patriot 308. Upgrading the stock can improve ergonomics, accuracy, and overall aesthetics. Ensure that the stock you choose is compatible with your specific model of the Patriot.
Q: What is the twist rate of the Mossberg Patriot 308 barrel?
A: The Mossberg Patriot 308 typically has a 1:10 twist rate, which is suitable for stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights. This twist rate is a good compromise for both light and heavy .308 bullets.
Q: Is the Mossberg Patriot 308 suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, the Mossberg Patriot 308 is a good option for beginners due to its affordability, ease of use, and manageable recoil. However, proper firearms safety training and instruction are essential before handling any firearm.
Q: What are some common problems with the Mossberg Patriot 308?
A: Some common problems reported with the Mossberg Patriot 308 include magazine feeding issues, trigger inconsistencies, and stock flex. However, these issues can often be resolved with aftermarket parts, careful adjustment, and proper technique.
Q: Where can I find the owner’s manual for the Mossberg Patriot 308?
A: The owner’s manual for the Mossberg Patriot 308 can be found on the Mossberg website or by contacting Mossberg customer service. The manual contains important information about safety, operation, and maintenance.
Conclusion: Is the Mossberg Patriot 308 Right for You?
The Mossberg Patriot 308 offers an appealing combination of affordability, reliability, and accuracy, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious shooters and hunters. While it may have some limitations, its overall value proposition is hard to beat. By understanding its strengths and weaknesses, you can make an informed decision about whether the Mossberg Patriot 308 is the right rifle for your needs. As we’ve discussed, its versatility and customization options further enhance its appeal, making it a rifle that can grow with your shooting experience. Share your experiences with the Mossberg Patriot 308 in the comments below, or explore our advanced guide to .308 Winchester ammunition selection for optimal performance.
