The Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend has quickly gained popularity among budget-conscious hunters and shooters seeking a reliable firearm chambered in the versatile .400 Legend cartridge. This review delves into the Patriot's performance, features, and overall value, examining whether it lives up to the hype. We'll look at everything from accuracy and recoil to ergonomics and build quality. The .400 Legend itself is a key aspect, as its characteristics heavily influence the rifle's overall performance.
What is the .400 Legend Cartridge?
Before diving into the rifle itself, let's understand the cartridge. The .400 Legend, introduced by Winchester, is a relatively new cartridge designed for use in AR-15 style platforms and bolt-action rifles, like the Mossberg Patriot. It offers several advantages:
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Lower Recoil: Compared to similar calibers like .300 Blackout, the .400 Legend exhibits notably lower recoil, making it friendlier for new shooters and those sensitive to recoil.
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Flatter Trajectory: The .400 Legend's ballistic trajectory is relatively flat, meaning less bullet drop at longer ranges compared to some other pistol-caliber carbines.
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Superior Penetration: While not as powerful as larger calibers, the .400 Legend offers adequate stopping power for hunting medium-sized game within reasonable ranges.
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Straight-Walled Case: This design simplifies feeding and extraction, contributing to reliability.
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AR-15 Compatibility (in AR-15 Platforms): A key selling point – although this review focuses on the bolt-action variant.
The .400 Legend's capabilities are directly reflected in the Mossberg Patriot's performance.
Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend: A Detailed Examination
The Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend is a bolt-action rifle known for its affordability and decent accuracy. Let's dissect its key features:
Accuracy and Range
Testing the Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend reveals respectable accuracy at typical hunting ranges (under 200 yards). While not a precision rifle, it consistently delivers groups within acceptable tolerances for deer hunting. Results will vary depending on ammunition used; premium ammo generally yields better results. Expect 1-2 MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy under ideal conditions.
Recoil
As expected given the .400 Legend's design, recoil is manageable, even for less experienced shooters. The rifle's weight (approximately 6.5 lbs) also contributes to this manageable recoil. This makes the Patriot ideal for extended shooting sessions.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The Mossberg Patriot is constructed with a synthetic stock, contributing to its lightweight nature and durability. The stock's ergonomics are generally well-received, offering a comfortable fit for most users. However, some might prefer adjustable features (cheek rest, length of pull) that are absent on this model.
Features
- Laminated Wood Stock (Some Models): While the standard model features a synthetic stock, some variations offer a laminated wood stock for a more traditional look and feel.
- Adjustable Trigger: While not as refined as high-end triggers, the Patriot's trigger is typically described as acceptable for its price point. Some adjustment may be possible, depending on the model.
- Magazine Capacity: The standard magazine capacity is 4 rounds. Larger capacity magazines are often available as aftermarket accessories.
- Sights: The basic model usually comes equipped with iron sights. However, mounting a scope is easily accomplished due to the presence of standard Picatinny rails.
Price and Value
The Mossberg Patriot's biggest selling point is its price. It falls firmly in the budget-friendly category, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget or just starting out. For the price, the Patriot provides a surprisingly capable hunting rifle.
Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend: Who is it For?
The Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend is an excellent choice for:
- Budget-conscious hunters: Those looking for a functional hunting rifle without breaking the bank will find the Patriot appealing.
- New shooters: Its manageable recoil and user-friendly design make it a good option for those new to firearms.
- Hunters of smaller game: The .400 Legend's power is well-suited for hunting deer-sized game within its effective range.
- Those seeking a versatile rifle: Its adaptability for various hunting scenarios and its relatively low recoil make it an appealing choice for versatility.
However, it's not the best choice for:
- Long-range precision shooting: While accurate enough for hunting, the Patriot isn't designed for extreme accuracy at longer distances.
- Experienced shooters seeking high-end features: More discerning shooters might find the Patriot's features somewhat basic compared to higher-end rifles.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for the Price
The Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend delivers excellent value for its price. While it lacks some features found in higher-priced rifles, its accuracy, manageable recoil, and affordability make it a strong contender in the budget-friendly bolt-action market. Its use of the .400 Legend cartridge adds to its appeal, especially for those seeking a lower-recoil option for hunting. If you're looking for a reliable and affordable hunting rifle chambered in .400 Legend, the Mossberg Patriot is definitely worth considering.