The Mossberg Patriot Super Bantam is a compact and lightweight rifle designed for younger shooters and hunters who prefer a smaller firearm. This review delves deep into its features, performance, and suitability for various applications, helping you decide if it's the right fit for you. We'll cover everything from its handling to its accuracy, considering both its strengths and weaknesses.
Design and Features: Built for Smaller Hands
The Super Bantam's most striking feature is its reduced size. This isn't just a cosmetic change; it significantly impacts how the rifle feels and operates. The smaller stock and shorter length of pull (LOP) make it significantly more manageable for individuals with smaller builds, including youth, women, and those with shorter arms. This design prioritizes ergonomics and comfort for its target audience. This reduced size doesn't compromise on safety; all essential safety features remain in place.
Stock and Ergonomics: A Comfortable Fit
The stock itself is typically made from synthetic material, known for its durability and resistance to the elements. The overall design is sleek and contoured, enhancing handling. One notable aspect is the adjustable length of pull. This feature is critical, ensuring a proper and comfortable fit for a wide range of users. An improper LOP can lead to poor accuracy and discomfort, making adjustment a key strength.
Action and Barrel: Smooth Operation, Accurate Shooting
The Patriot Super Bantam typically features a bolt-action system, known for its reliability and accuracy. The bolt operates smoothly, allowing for quick follow-up shots. The barrel length is generally shorter than standard hunting rifles, contributing to the overall compact design. However, this shorter barrel doesn't necessarily mean a compromise in accuracy, especially at closer ranges. Many users report impressive accuracy with this rifle.
Sights and Optics: Adaptable to Your Needs
The rifle often comes equipped with iron sights, useful for close-range shooting. However, the presence of Picatinny rails allows for easy mounting of scopes or other optical accessories. This adaptability is crucial, especially for longer-range shooting where greater precision is required. Choosing the right optic can greatly enhance the rifle's capabilities.
Performance and Accuracy: Real-World Testing
The accuracy of the Mossberg Patriot Super Bantam varies depending on ammunition and individual rifles, but generally it performs well. In several independent tests, the Super Bantam consistently produced groups within 1-2 MOA (Minute of Angle) at 100 yards, which is perfectly acceptable for hunting applications. This level of accuracy demonstrates the rifle's potential for both hunting and target practice.
Ammunition: Finding the Right Match
Choosing the right ammunition is crucial for optimal performance. While the Super Bantam is generally known for its reliability with various types of ammunition, experimenting with different brands and loads helps determine what works best for your specific rifle. Keep detailed records of your results to identify the most accurate ammunition for your gun.
Recoil: Manageable for Smaller Shooters
The recoil of the Super Bantam is generally considered manageable, even for smaller shooters. The rifle's lighter weight might lead some to expect more recoil, but the design effectively mitigates the impact. However, the use of a recoil pad is still recommended for enhancing shooting comfort.
Applications: Hunting and Target Shooting
The Mossberg Patriot Super Bantam excels in several roles. Its compact size makes it perfect for hunting in tight quarters, like thick brush or wooded areas where maneuverability is crucial. Its accuracy also makes it suitable for taking shots at moderate ranges. Beyond hunting, the Super Bantam’s accuracy and adjustable features also make it a solid choice for target practice.
Case Study: Youth Hunting Success
A young hunter using a Mossberg Patriot Super Bantam successfully harvested a deer at 75 yards during their first hunting trip. The compact size and manageable recoil allowed them to comfortably handle the rifle and make an accurate shot, demonstrating the rifle's suitability for youth hunters.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Adjustable length of pull
- Relatively affordable price point
- Accurate for its class
- Durable synthetic stock
- Picatinny rail for optics
Cons:
- Shorter barrel may impact longer-range accuracy (compared to longer barreled rifles).
- Some users report minor issues with bolt smoothness (this can vary from rifle to rifle).
Conclusion: A Strong Contender in its Class
The Mossberg Patriot Super Bantam is a versatile rifle well-suited for younger shooters and hunters, as well as anyone who appreciates a more compact and maneuverable firearm. While it might not be the ideal choice for extreme long-range shooting, its balance of accuracy, ergonomics, and affordability make it a strong contender in its class. Consider your individual needs and preferences before making a purchase, but the Super Bantam is worth serious consideration.