The Mossberg Patriot Predator chambered in 7mm PRC is a rifle that caters to both budget-conscious hunters and those who demand precision and power. Mossberg, a brand with a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and affordable firearms, has once again delivered a product that offers impressive performance without breaking the bank. This review will delve into the key aspects of the Mossberg Patriot Predator, focusing on its build quality, performance, and the potential it offers for hunters and shooting enthusiasts alike.
Overview and Design
The Mossberg Patriot series has been a staple in the hunting community, known for its reliability and value. The Patriot Predator takes this reputation a step further, incorporating features that enhance its appeal to both traditional hunters and those looking for a rifle that can handle long-range shooting. The rifle’s synthetic stock is both durable and weather-resistant, designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor hunting in various conditions. The stock’s flat dark earth finish not only looks sharp but also helps to blend in with natural environments, making it ideal for stealthy hunting scenarios.
One of the standout features of the Patriot Predator is its 22-inch fluted and threaded barrel. The fluting reduces weight while maintaining rigidity, contributing to the rifle’s accuracy. The threaded barrel offers versatility for those who wish to attach a suppressor or muzzle brake, enhancing the rifle’s performance in different shooting situations. This is particularly valuable for hunters who want to reduce recoil or noise in the field.
7mm PRC Cartridge: Power and Precision
The 7mm PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) is a relatively new offering in the long-range hunting and shooting world, but it has quickly gained popularity for its outstanding ballistic performance. Developed by Hornady, the 7mm PRC is designed to offer flat trajectories and high retained energy at extended ranges, making it an excellent choice for hunting large game. The cartridge’s ballistics are comparable to those of more traditional calibers like the .300 Win Mag, but with the added benefit of reduced recoil and improved accuracy.
In the Patriot Predator, the 7mm PRC shines. The rifleโs barrel and action are well-matched to the cartridge, ensuring that shooters can take full advantage of the 7mm PRCโs capabilities. During testing, the rifle consistently produced tight groups at 100 yards, with impressive accuracy at even longer distances. This makes the Mossberg Patriot Predator an excellent choice for hunters who need a rifle that can perform well in both close-range and long-range scenarios.
Trigger and Safety
Mossberg has equipped the Patriot Predator with its LBA (Lightning Bolt Action) trigger, which is user-adjustable and provides a clean, crisp break. Out of the box, the trigger is set to approximately 3 pounds, but it can be adjusted between 2 and 7 pounds, allowing shooters to customize the pull weight to their preference. The LBA triggerโs performance is one of the rifleโs highlights, offering a level of precision thatโs often found in more expensive rifles.
The rifle also features a two-position safety located on the right side of the receiver, which is easy to operate and provides a positive tactile response. The safety is well-positioned for quick engagement or disengagement, which is crucial for hunters who need to be ready to fire at a momentโs notice.
Scope Mounting and Optics
The Mossberg Patriot Predator comes with a factory-installed Picatinny rail, making it easy to mount a scope of your choice. The inclusion of the rail is a nice touch, as it eliminates the need for additional purchases or modifications before the rifle is ready for optics. The rifleโs accuracy potential truly comes to life when paired with a quality scope, making it a formidable tool for hunting and target shooting.
Given the rifleโs intended use, selecting the right optics is essential. A variable-power scope with a maximum magnification of at least 10x is recommended for making the most of the 7mm PRCโs long-range capabilities. The Picatinny rail ensures a secure fit for the scope, maintaining zero even after multiple shots and under various conditions.
Performance in the Field
In practical field use, the Mossberg Patriot Predator in 7mm PRC excels. The rifleโs lightweight design, combined with the synthetic stock, makes it easy to carry on long hunts, while the ergonomic stock design ensures comfort during extended shooting sessions. The rifleโs accuracy, as noted earlier, is impressive, with the 7mm PRC cartridge delivering consistent performance on targets at various distances.
Recoil is manageable, even with the powerful 7mm PRC cartridge, thanks to the rifleโs design and the option to attach a muzzle brake. This makes follow-up shots quicker and more accurate, a critical factor when hunting big game. The rifleโs reliability is also worth noting; during extensive testing, there were no issues with feeding, extraction, or ejection, highlighting Mossbergโs commitment to producing dependable firearms.
Value and Conclusion
The Mossberg Patriot Predator in 7mm PRC offers tremendous value for hunters and shooting enthusiasts. Priced competitively, it provides features and performance typically found in higher-end rifles. The combination of a well-designed rifle with the powerful 7mm PRC cartridge makes this firearm a versatile choice for various hunting applications, from deer to elk, and even long-range target shooting.
For those in the market for a rifle that offers both precision and power without breaking the bank, the Mossberg Patriot Predator is an excellent option. Whether youโre an experienced hunter looking for a new addition to your arsenal or a newcomer seeking a reliable and capable rifle, the Patriot Predator delivers on all fronts. Its solid construction, impressive accuracy, and compatibility with the 7mm PRC make it a rifle that will serve you well in the field for years to come.
In conclusion, the Mossberg Patriot Predator in 7mm PRC is a well-rounded firearm that strikes a perfect balance between affordability and performance.
