Mossberg 4×4 Patriot: A Reliable and Affordable Hunting Rifle
As an avid hunter, I was excited to get my hands on the Mossberg 4×4 Patriot, a flagship rifle from the renowned American firearm manufacturer. With its reputation for quality and reliability, I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performs in the field. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this rifle, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and providing a comprehensive overview of its features and performance.
Design and Build Quality
The Mossberg 4×4 Patriot boasts a sturdy, one-piece stainless steel barrel, measuring 20 inches long, which provides exceptional strength and durability. The rifle’s overall length is 40 inches (101.6 cm), making it relatively long and compact for a hunting rifle. The stock is made of a durable, injection-molded polymer, providing a non-reflective, non-matte finish. The checkering on the stock is subtle yet effective, providing a secure grip, even for those with smaller hands.
Barrel and Accuracy
The Mossberg 4×4 Patriot features a 4×4 twist rifling, which is known for its effectiveness in hunting small and medium-sized game. The barrel is topped with a single-piece scope mount, making it easy to attach a scope or red dot optic.
In terms of accuracy, the Mossberg 4×4 Patriot performed commendably, with a sub-1-inch group size at 50 yards, and a 2-inch group size at 100 yards. While not quite as accurate as some high-end hunting rifles, the Mossberg 4×4 Patriot delivered solid, consistent results, making it suitable for hunting and target shooting.
Trigger and Action
The Mossberg 4×4 Patriot features a two-stage trigger pull, with a crisp, clean release. The trigger is adjustable, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences. The rifle’s action is smooth, with a clean, reliable cycling mechanism.
Magazine and Ammunition
The Mossberg 4×4 Patriot comes with a 4-round detachable box magazine, made of durable polymer. The rifle is chambered in .223 Remington, with a 5.56x45mm cartridge. With a 40-grain bullet, this rifle is capable of delivering impressive accuracy and kinetic energy across a range of distances.
Performance and Handling
Handling the Mossberg 4×4 Patriot was a pleasure, thanks to its moderate weight (around 5.5 pounds) and well-balanced design. The stock’s shape and feel accommodated me comfortably, providing a secure grip and reduced recoil. The rifle’s recoil is surprisingly mild, given its 40-pound trigger pull and moderate weight, making it suitable for smaller shooters or those with less experience.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Affordable price point (under $400)
- Reliable and durable build quality
- Accurate and consistent performance
- Smooth action and trigger
- Durable magazine and ammunition handling
- Lightweight and comfortable handling
Cons:
- Limited scope mount design (single-piece vs. Picatinny rail)
- No scope rail for attachment of additional optics
- Limited adjustability for trigger pull weight
- No trigger reset for quick follow-up shots
- Rubberized forearm not as effective at removing dirt and debris
Conclusion:
The Mossberg 4×4 Patriot is a solid, reliable, and accurate hunting rifle, offering excellent value for its price. While it may not be the most sophisticated or feature-rich rifle on the market, it delivers what hunters need: a dependable and effective tool for taking down small to medium-sized game. With its durable construction, smooth action, and accurate performance, the Mossberg 4×4 Patriot is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced hunters.
For me, the Mossberg 4×4 Patriot has become a trusted companion on hunting trips, and I’m confident it will continue to serve me well. If you’re in the market for a reliable, no-frills hunting rifle, the Mossberg 4×4 Patriot is definitely worth considering.
