Overview

The Mossberg Patriot Carbine in 7mm PRC stands out as an affordable long-action option for hunters seeking extended-range capability without breaking the bank. With an MSRP starting at $469, the rifle combines a lightweight design with respectable accuracy right out of the box, making it a practical choice for those venturing into the growing 7mm PRC cartridge.

Pros

• Strong accuracy for the price, with groups as tight as 1.06 inches using Federal Fusion 175-grain ammunition.
• Lightweight and easy to carry, even when fully equipped with optic, bipod, and suppressor.
• Factory lightning trigger offers a clean, crisp break suitable for hunting scenarios.
• Suppressor compatibility shines with the Unorthodox Spooky can, maintaining consistency through heat cycles.

Cons

• Stock design is criticized for uncomfortable grip areas and pronounced mold lines that dig into the hand and cheek.
• Proprietary three-round magazines limit flexibility compared to AICS-pattern options.
• Permanently affixed bolt handle lacks aggressive texture, potentially problematic in wet or gloved conditions.

Key Specs and Testing

Testing involved five-round groups with a 10-minute cooldown between each, using an Athlon Midas TAC Gen 2 4-16x optic. Results ranged from 1.06 to 1.72 inches across various loads, including Hornady Whitetail 154-grain (1.36 inches) and Hornady ELD-M 180-grain (1.29 inches). The reviewer noted, “I got right at MOA with at least one ammunition type,” and emphasized the rifle’s consistency even on a 100-degree Arizona day.

While the stock and ergonomics leave room for improvement, the Patriot Carbine proves capable of taking mid-to-large game at distances beyond typical hunting ranges. As the host concluded, “There’s no doubt in my mind that you could drop plenty of mid-to-large size game with this thing right here even at distances that some hunters may not be comfortable with.”