The Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend has quickly gained popularity among hunters and shooters alike, offering a compelling blend of affordability and performance in the increasingly popular .400 Legend cartridge. But does it live up to the hype? This in-depth review will explore its features, performance on the range, and overall value to help you decide if it's the right firearm for you.
What Makes the .400 Legend Unique?
Before diving into the specifics of the Mossberg Patriot, let's briefly discuss the .400 Legend cartridge itself. This relatively new round was designed with several key features in mind:
- Reduced Recoil: Compared to other popular calibers like .300 Blackout, the .400 Legend boasts significantly less recoil, making it more comfortable for new shooters and those sensitive to recoil.
- Subsonic Capabilities: While not exclusively subsonic, the .400 Legend can be loaded to subsonic velocities, offering advantages for suppressed shooting.
- AR-15 Compatibility: The .400 Legend is designed to function within standard AR-15 platforms, offering versatility and ease of parts acquisition for customization.
Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend: A Closer Look
The Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend is a bolt-action rifle, distinguished by its straightforward design and focus on reliable function at an attractive price point. Key features include:
- Lightweight Design: Constructed for easy handling, even during extended hunting sessions.
- Durable Stock: Typically made from synthetic materials, the stock is weather-resistant and easy to maintain.
- Adjustable Trigger: Although not user-adjustable in the field, this feature offers some degree of customization during initial setup.
- Reliable Bolt Action: Mossberg is known for its robust and dependable bolt actions. The Patriot 400 Legend continues this tradition.
- Magazine Capacity: Depending on local laws and the specific model, the magazine capacity varies.
Performance on the Range
During testing, the Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend proved accurate and reliable. While not a precision benchrest rifle, it delivered respectable accuracy at various ranges. The low recoil made it comfortable to shoot, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The trigger pull, while not match-grade, was crisp and predictable, contributing to overall accuracy.
Pros and Cons of the Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend
Pros:
- Affordable Price: A significant advantage is its affordability, making it accessible to a wider range of shooters.
- Low Recoil: The .400 Legend's inherent low recoil translates to increased shooter comfort and accuracy.
- Reliable Function: Mossberg's reputation for reliability is well-deserved. The Patriot 400 Legend lives up to this expectation.
- Versatile Cartridge: The .400 Legend is suitable for various hunting applications, including deer hunting within shorter ranges.
Cons:
- Limited Range: Compared to higher-powered calibers, the .400 Legend has a shorter effective range.
- Availability of Ammo: While .400 Legend ammunition is becoming more readily available, it may still be harder to find than more established calibers.
- Aftermarket Parts: While there is growing support, the aftermarket options for customizing the Patriot 400 Legend are still less extensive than for rifles in more popular calibers.
Who is the Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend For?
The Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend is an excellent choice for:
- Budget-conscious hunters: Seeking a reliable and affordable rifle for hunting within its effective range.
- New shooters: The low recoil makes it ideal for those new to shooting or sensitive to recoil.
- Home defenders: Looking for a short-range, powerful, and relatively quiet option (especially with a suppressor).
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for the Right Application
The Mossberg Patriot 400 Legend is a solid rifle that punches above its weight in terms of value. Its combination of affordability, manageable recoil, and reliable performance makes it a strong contender in the market. While not perfect and not suitable for every shooting scenario, for its intended purposes, it delivers on its promise. Before purchasing, consider the limitations of the .400 Legend cartridge and ensure it aligns with your specific hunting or shooting needs.
