First Look: Mossberg Patriot Synthetic Cerakote

Three years ago, Mossberg launched their latest and best bolt-action hunting rifle to date—the Patriot. Built to be both accurate and affordable, the Patriot rifles feature a fluted push-feed bolt with dual opposed locking lugs and a Mossberg’s bladed LBA (Lightning Bolt Action) trigger which is user-adjustable from 2 to 7 pounds.

Other key features include a two-position rocker-type safety and a straight-comb injection molded stock that is both lightweight durable. The 22-inch carbon steel barrel is free-floated and crowned, and polymer block insert with integral magazine well serves as an affordable, lightweight, cost-effective bedding system. Additionally, Mossberg ships these rifles with a pair of Weaver bases installed, which simplifies the optic mounting process and provides a firm and stable platform for your scope.

The addition of a Sythetic Cerakote stainless (H-Series) finish makes the metalwork on the rifle virtually impervious to the elements, so you won’t have to worry damaging your rifle while hunting in tough conditions.

I carried the new Patriot Synthetic Cerakote on an ibex hunt in Spain, and the rifle came through the hunt—which involved climbing in very rocky country—unscathed. The particular rifle that I carried was chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, and weighed just 6.5 pounds. Thanks to the lightweight sporter-profile fluted barrel and polymer stock, long hikes in steep country weren’t an issue. When a mature male ibex stepped into a clearing 200 yards across a canyon, the Patriot Cerakote performed flawlessly, placing a 140-grain bullet into the billy’s vitals which resulted in a short follow-up.

In addition to 6.5 Creedmoor these rifles are available in .243 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, .308 Winchester, .270 Winchester and .30-06, all of which utilize a lightweight detachable-box magazine that holds four rounds.

Hunters have come to expect rugged reliability from Mossberg products, which this rifle delivers. The Patriot Synthetic Cerakote is an American-made rifle that’s tough-as-nails and easy on the pocketbook. Would you expect anything else from Mossberg? MSRP for the new Patriot Synthetic Cerakote is $440.

For more information, go to mossberg.com.