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With only a couple of weeks left in deer season 2023, we began testing the Mossberg Patriot Predator in 7mm PRC. After a quick trip to the range, we were on target and ready. Next step, Doe Patrol to fill the freezer. Keep reading...
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The cartridge that rocked the world and revolutionized modern sporting rifles has been announced, and is now in circulation. Well, at least that's what Hornady would want you to think about the new 7mm PRC.
According to Hornady:
With all the fuss surrounding the possibilities of the new 7mm PRC, we had to take a shot...pun intended!
There are several gun manufacturers that have started producing quality off-the-shelf rifles. Some of them include Ruger, Savage, Christensen, Bergara, and last but not least Mossberg!
And, obviously there are several custom gun makers that will happily chamber you a rifle in this new offering.
Within a few days of receiving the Mossberg Patriot Predator, we had it topped with an Athlon Neos 3-9x40 scope. We had thankfully already purchased a couple boxes of Hornady Precision Hunter ammo, so off to the range we went for our first shots with the new 7mm PRC.
After that first trip to the range, we were sighted in on target. And, after using the LabRadar to obtain velocity measurements for the ELD-X bullet, we knew that we could be accurate out to at least 200 yards.
Don't let the budget friendly thought from above fool you into thinking this rifle won't shoot accurately. There's more about the accuracy below.
This review was written without bias and without payment or advertising from Mossberg. We were able to purchase this rifle at a discount but that has no bearing on our review. If we didn't like it, we wouldn't be writing about it! If you find this review helpful, and want to help support our work, please click any of the affiliate links throughout as they help us (at no extra cost to you) – thanks!
It was time to put some extra meat in the freezer and see what this new cartridge offering could do.
Since the 7mm PRC caliber was just launched in the past year, there really aren't many factory ammo options for it yet. In fact, when we first started shooting the gun, we only had two. Both were from Hornady, and one was a Match bullet.
Thankfully, the other option is the 175 grain ELD-X bullet.
We've used the same Hornady ELD-X bullet (other calibers) in several hunting scenarios and have been impressed with the results.
At the time of writing this article, we've been able to find two other 7mm PRC factory loads: Hornady 160 grain CX Outfitter and the Federal Premium loaded with the same 175 grain ELD-X bullet as those Precision Hunters. I've heard that Remington and Weatherby also now have options, but we've yet to come across either of those in a store.
The tightest group we've shot so far has been a .243 MOA group at 100 yards using a factory loaded Hornady 180 grain ELD-M Match Grade Ammunition. Of course, that's Adrian's group instead of mine. We all know that she usually shoots better than me anyway!
When it comes to factory hunting ammo, there are only a few options. So far, our best groups have been with the 175 grain ELD-X ammo from Hornady.
I think you can tell from the pictures above, we've been impressed with the ability to shoot great groups with this Mossberg Patriot with those loads. However, we haven't had the same results with the Hornady Outfitters which is loaded with a 160 grain CX bullet.
Over the past several years as we continue to shoot more frequently, we've really come to appreciate a threaded barrel. The 5/8x24 thread pattern on the Mossberg Patriot Predator gives you plenty of options for something to cover those threads.
Each of those variations has still proven reliable from an accuracy standpoint.
The tightest three-shot group that Adrian shot (the picture above) was with the Area 419 Hellfire Brake screwed onto the barrel threads. That has probably proven the most comfortable variation to shoot from a recoil standpoint.
Everyone always says that a rifle is only as good as the optic on top of it. Since the Mossberg Patriot Predator is seeming like a great budget rifle, we decided not to break the bank for the optic to go on top. And thankfully, it comes standard with an optics rail already attached. We did take it off, make sure it was clean, and then re-torque the screws just in case.
We decided to go with the Athlon Neos 3-9x40 Second Focal Plane Riflescope. Its illuminated BDC 500 IR reticle was designed to deliver a high level of precision at extended targets that can be used with today’s most popular rifle cartridges.
The Athlon Neos weighs in at 17 ounces, has a 1" diameter tube, and has an advertised 3" eye relief. It's also advertised to have:
A: There are several different models of the Mossberg Patriot and depending upon the model you choose, several different calibers are available. 6.5 CM; 6.5 PRC; 22-250 Rem; 243 Win; 308 Win; 450 Bushmaster; 7mm PRC
I think it's safe to say, the most common calibers are all included. If you're looking for a specific caliber then I would suggest starting there and then determine a model. If you're looking for a specific model or Cerakote finish, start there and then determine what caliber you want based on the model.
A: That's a great question! Based on our experience with this rifle so far, there has been nothing to complain about. I will say, though, this is the only Mossberg Patriot we've ever shot.
A: At the time of writing this article, we've been able to find 4 different factory ammo offerings and have heard there are two other loads in stores...somewhere. We've found three different loads from Hornady including 160 grain CX Outfitter, 175 grain ELD-X Precision Hunter, and the 180 grain ELD-M Match ammo. Federal has one offering so far that's loaded with the 175 grain ELD-X bullet.
A: I would suggest a Google search to help with this one. As far as online retailers go, I've found them in different calibers at Cabela's, Sportman's Warehouse, and even Academy Sports. There's also a good chance that your local gun shop could get one from Mossberg if you're looking for a specific caliber and model.
This will likely come as no surprise to you, but it really just depends on what you're looking for!
If you're looking for a competition rifle that will win every shooting match you enter, this rifle may be capable of winning, but it's probably not going to be your first pick.
But, if you're looking for a hunting rifle that is a really good shooter, you definitely need to check out the Mossberg Patriot Predator. From its Cerakote finished and fluted barrel to the user adjustable trigger, oversized bolt knob, threaded barrel, and included picatinny rail, it's full of great features that really increase the value of this budget friendly rifle.
Of course, that's not to mention the great groups that we've been shooting with this rifle. We haven't stretched it out past 200 yards yet (except for one doe harvest at the end of the season) but anticipate shooting longer distance with it soon.
Now I'm not saying that buying this rifle can guarantee you a doe harvest, but you'll be one step closer for sure!
Robbie has enjoyed the outdoors since he can remember. His earliest memories include hours upon hours of squirrel hunting and learning how to enjoy all aspects of hunting season in God's wonderful outdoors. Now he is always working hard and testing gear in the field to give you the best review and most thorough information he possibly can.
As you read this article, please remember that this review is from your average, everyday shooter's perspective. We do not claim to be experts by any stretch.
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