The Mossberg Patriot Night Train in .308 Winchester has quickly gained popularity among budget-conscious shooters looking for a versatile hunting and target rifle. This review delves deep into its performance, features, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right firearm for you.
First Impressions: A Solid Build for the Price
Unboxing the Patriot Night Train, the first impression is one of solid construction. While it's clearly positioned as a value-oriented rifle, it doesn't feel cheap. The synthetic stock is durable and comfortable, featuring a subtle but effective texturing for a secure grip. The matte black finish is practical and resists wear well. The weight is manageable, making it suitable for extended hunting trips or range sessions.
Key Features to Note:
- Synthetic Stock: Durable, weather-resistant, and comfortable for all-day shooting.
- Matte Black Finish: Reduces glare and provides protection against the elements.
- Adjustable Trigger: While not top-tier, the LBA (Lightning Bolt Action) trigger is adjustable for pull weight and allows for customization to suit your preferences. This is a significant plus point compared to many rifles in this price range.
- Threaded Barrel: Ready to accept suppressors or muzzle brakes, enhancing versatility and reducing recoil.
Accuracy and Performance on the Range
The Patriot Night Train's accuracy is where it truly shines, especially considering its price point. During testing with various ammunition types, including factory match-grade rounds, it consistently delivered sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy at 100 yards. This level of precision surpasses many similarly priced rifles. However, the level of accuracy can vary depending on the ammunition used, so experimentation is key to finding the best load for your specific rifle.
Ammunition Considerations:
While the rifle performs well with a variety of .308 Winchester ammunition, experimenting with different brands and grain weights is crucial to optimize accuracy. Match-grade ammunition will generally yield the best results.
Hunting Applications: A Versatile Field Companion
The Mossberg Patriot Night Train's manageable recoil and accuracy make it a strong contender for various hunting scenarios, from deer hunting in open fields to hog hunting in wooded areas. Its lightweight design minimizes fatigue during long hunts, and the matte black finish helps it blend seamlessly into diverse environments.
Potential Drawbacks:
While the Patriot Night Train offers exceptional value, it's important to acknowledge some limitations:
- Trigger: While adjustable, the trigger pull isn't as crisp or clean as high-end rifles.
- Sights: It comes without iron sights; you'll need to purchase and mount optics separately. This is common in this price bracket, but it's a cost to consider.
- Stock Material: While durable, the synthetic stock might not appeal to everyone who prefers the feel of wood.
Overall Value and Conclusion:
The Mossberg Patriot Night Train .308 represents remarkable value for money. Its accuracy, manageable recoil, and versatile features make it a strong choice for both hunting and target shooting enthusiasts on a budget. While it might not boast the premium features of more expensive rifles, its performance and reliability make it a compelling option for those looking to enter the world of precision shooting without breaking the bank.
The slightly less refined trigger and the need for separate optics are minor drawbacks that are easily offset by its excellent accuracy and overall affordability. For those seeking a dependable, accurate, and budget-friendly .308 rifle, the Mossberg Patriot Night Train is a worthy contender and deserves serious consideration.
