Mossberg Patriot 6.5 PRC Review: A Hunting Rifle Worth Considering
As an avid hunter, I’m always on the lookout for a reliable and accurate rifle that can deliver exceptional performance in the field. The Mossberg Patriot 6.5 PRC caught my attention with its impressive specs, so I decided to take it for a spin and share my experience with fellow hunters.
Out of the Box Experience
Upon unboxing the Mossberg Patriot 6.5 PRC, I was impressed by its sleek design and quality construction. The rifle’s synthetic stock, finished in a rugged Mossy Oak Bottomlands camo pattern, feels ergonomic and comfortable in my hands. The generous grip and contoured fore-end provide a secure hold, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Specifications and Design
Here are the key specs that contributed to my positive experience:
• Caliber: 6.5 PRC (6.5mm Creedmoor)
• Barrel length: 24 inches (61 cm)
• Magazine capacity: 4-round
• Overall length: 42.5 inches (108 cm)
• Weight: 7.25 pounds (3.3 kg)
• Action: Single-shot bolt-action
• Trigger: Single-stage, adjustable
• Stock: Synthetic, Mossy Oak Bottomlands camo
Performance in the Field
I took the Mossberg Patriot 6.5 PRC on a deer hunt in a dense, wooded area, and the rifle performed exceptionally well. The 6.5 PRC cartridge delivered impressive accuracy and knockdown power, with a typical hunting load placing 100-grain A-Max bullets at 2,700 feet per second.
Range Performance and Accuracy
At the shooting range, I was blown away by the Patriot’s accuracy. Using a variety of loads and distances, I achieved consistent sub-MOA performance, with some groups as tight as 0.5 MOA. The rifle’s smooth, crisp trigger and consistent bolt action made it a joy to shoot.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of my experience with the Mossberg Patriot 6.5 PRC:
Pros:
• Accurate and reliable: The rifle consistently delivered sub-MOA performance and functioned flawlessly, even in adverse conditions.
• Comfortable and ergonomic: The Mossy Oak Bottomlands camo stock and contoured fore-end made it easy to handle and maneuver.
• Ergonomic grip: The rifle’s grip and fore-end fit snugly in my hands, reducing fatigue and allowing for extended shooting sessions.
• Adjustable trigger: The single-stage, adjustable trigger made it easy to fine-tune for my personal taste.
Cons:
• Limited magazine capacity: The 4-round magazine capacity may be restrictive for some hunters, particularly those who prefer to burn through multiple shots in a single session.
• No bolt release: I found it frustrating to not have a bolt release feature, which can be a hindrance for fast-paced, action-packed hunting situations.
• Some users may find the stock too light: While the Mossy Oak Bottomlands camo stock felt comfortable to me, a few shooters might find it too light, leading to a less solid shooting platform.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mossberg Patriot 6.5 PRC is a solid choice for hunters seeking a reliable and accurate rifle. Its ergonomic design, impressive accuracy, and powerful 6.5 PRC cartridge make it an excellent option for WH 1 and 2 hunting seasons. While it may not be perfect, the pros far outweigh the cons, and I highly recommend considering the Patriot 6.5 PRC for your next hunting expedition.