Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO: Review & Specs

by Team 46 views
Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO: Review & Specs

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO, a rifle that's been making waves in the shooting community. If you're looking for a versatile, reliable, and accurate rifle that won't break the bank, then keep reading. We’ll cover everything from its key features and specs to its performance at the range and how it stacks up against the competition. So, let’s get started!

What is the Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO?

The Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO is a bolt-action rifle designed for versatility and practicality. It's chambered in the widely available and affordable 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington cartridge, making it a great option for everything from target shooting to varmint hunting. But what sets it apart from other rifles in its class? Well, one of the standout features is its compatibility with standard AR-15 magazines. Yes, you heard that right! No proprietary mags needed here, which is a huge plus for those who already have a collection of AR mags. It also means you can easily find affordable magazines anywhere. Another great thing about MVP Patrol is the price point. It offers a lot of value without costing you a fortune. This rifle is rugged and dependable, which is something you need when you go hunting or during tactical operations. The rifle is also easy to handle and comfortable to shoot, making it suitable for both experienced shooters and beginners. It also makes a great platform to teach new shooters about bolt action rifles without breaking the bank. The MVP Patrol also offers an adjustable trigger, allowing shooters to customize the trigger pull to their preferences, enhancing accuracy and control. Whether you're a seasoned marksman or a novice shooter, this feature ensures a comfortable and consistent shooting experience. The MVP Patrol's versatility extends beyond its magazine compatibility and adjustable trigger; it's also highly adaptable to various accessories and customization options. With its Picatinny rail, shooters can easily mount scopes, sights, and other tactical accessories to tailor the rifle to their specific needs and preferences. This adaptability makes the MVP Patrol a versatile platform for a wide range of shooting applications, from target shooting to hunting and tactical scenarios. For those seeking a reliable, accurate, and customizable bolt-action rifle, the Mossberg MVP Patrol stands out as a compelling option. The MVP Patrol combines practicality, affordability, and performance, making it a popular choice among shooters of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a beginner, this rifle offers a versatile platform that can be adapted to suit your needs and preferences. With its compatibility with AR-15 magazines, adjustable trigger, and customizable design, the MVP Patrol delivers exceptional value and functionality. So, if you're in the market for a dependable and adaptable bolt-action rifle, the Mossberg MVP Patrol is definitely worth considering.

Key Features and Specifications

Let’s dive into the details of the Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO and break down what makes it tick. First off, the rifle typically comes with a 16.25-inch barrel, which is a sweet spot for maneuverability and accuracy. The barrel usually has a 1:7 or 1:9 twist rate, optimized for stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights commonly used in 5.56 NATO rounds. This is great because you're not stuck with only one type of ammo. As we mentioned earlier, it accepts standard AR-15 magazines, which is a huge win. The capacity will depend on the magazine you use, but you can go with anything from a standard 30-rounder to a smaller 10-round mag for hunting or target shooting. The rifle also features a durable synthetic stock that can handle some rough handling. The stock often includes a textured grip and forend, providing a secure and comfortable hold, even in wet conditions. Most models come with a Picatinny rail mounted on top of the receiver, perfect for adding optics like scopes, red dot sights, or holographic sights. Some models also include a rail on the forend for attaching accessories like lights or lasers. It generally weighs in at around 7 to 7.5 pounds, making it light enough to carry around for extended periods but substantial enough to feel stable when shooting. The overall length is usually around 35.5 inches, making it compact enough to be easily stored and transported. The trigger is often adjustable, allowing you to customize the trigger pull weight to your preference. This can significantly improve your accuracy and consistency. Many models also feature a threaded barrel, allowing you to attach muzzle devices like suppressors or compensators. This can help reduce recoil and muzzle rise, making it easier to stay on target. The bolt handle is usually oversized, making it easier to grip and manipulate, especially when wearing gloves. This is a small detail, but it can make a big difference in the field. The safety is typically a two-position lever located near the bolt, making it easy to engage and disengage. The magazine release is usually located in front of the trigger guard, similar to an AR-15, making it intuitive to use. All in all, the Mossberg MVP Patrol is packed with features that make it a practical and versatile rifle for a variety of applications. Whether you're looking for a reliable truck gun, a fun range toy, or a capable hunting rifle, the MVP Patrol has something to offer. With its combination of features, affordability, and performance, the MVP Patrol is a solid choice for any shooter looking to add a versatile bolt-action rifle to their collection.

Performance at the Range

Alright, let’s talk about how the Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO performs where it counts – at the range. First impressions are usually pretty positive. The rifle feels solid and well-balanced in hand, which is always a good start. The bolt action is smooth, and the oversized bolt handle makes it easy to cycle rounds quickly. The adjustable trigger is another highlight, allowing you to fine-tune the trigger pull to your liking. This can make a big difference in accuracy, especially for those who are used to lighter triggers. When it comes to accuracy, the MVP Patrol is surprisingly capable. With decent ammo and a good optic, it’s not uncommon to achieve sub-MOA groups at 100 yards. Of course, your mileage may vary depending on your skill level and the quality of your ammunition. But overall, the MVP Patrol is more than accurate enough for most practical applications. Recoil is manageable, thanks to the 5.56 NATO cartridge and the rifle's weight. Even new shooters should be able to handle it without any issues. The synthetic stock provides a comfortable cheek weld, and the textured grip helps keep the rifle firmly planted in your hands. One of the biggest advantages of the MVP Patrol is its compatibility with AR-15 magazines. This means you can use any AR-15 mag you have lying around, which is super convenient and cost-effective. Plus, AR-15 mags are readily available and come in a variety of capacities. The rifle also handles different types of ammo well. Whether you're shooting cheap bulk ammo or premium match-grade rounds, the MVP Patrol will reliably cycle and extract each round. However, like any rifle, it will perform best with ammo it likes, so it's worth experimenting to find the sweet spot. The Picatinny rail on top of the receiver makes it easy to mount optics. Whether you prefer a scope, red dot sight, or holographic sight, you'll have no problem finding a suitable mounting solution. The rail is also long enough to accommodate a variety of optic setups. One thing to keep in mind is that the MVP Patrol is not a match-grade rifle. While it is accurate, it's not designed for precision shooting competitions. However, for general target shooting, hunting, and tactical applications, it's more than capable. The MVP Patrol is easy to clean and maintain. The bolt can be easily removed for cleaning, and the barrel is accessible from both ends. With regular cleaning and lubrication, the MVP Patrol will provide years of reliable service. Overall, the Mossberg MVP Patrol is a solid performer at the range. It's accurate, reliable, and easy to shoot, making it a great choice for a variety of applications. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a beginner, you'll appreciate the MVP Patrol's versatility and value.

Pros and Cons

Like any rifle, the Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO has its pros and cons. Let’s break them down so you can get a clear picture of what this rifle offers.

Pros:

  • AR-15 Magazine Compatibility: This is a huge advantage. You can use readily available and affordable AR-15 magazines, which is great for those who already own AR-15s or want to avoid proprietary mags.
  • Affordable Price: The MVP Patrol offers a lot of value for the money. It's a great option for those on a budget who still want a reliable and accurate rifle.
  • Adjustable Trigger: The adjustable trigger allows you to customize the trigger pull to your preference, improving accuracy and consistency.
  • Picatinny Rail: The Picatinny rail makes it easy to mount optics and accessories, allowing you to customize the rifle to your needs.
  • Compact and Lightweight: The MVP Patrol is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and maneuver.
  • Reliable Performance: The MVP Patrol is known for its reliable performance, even with different types of ammo.

Cons:

  • Bolt Action: Some shooters may prefer a semi-automatic rifle for faster follow-up shots. The bolt action requires manual cycling of the bolt after each shot.
  • Synthetic Stock: The synthetic stock is durable but may not be as comfortable or aesthetically pleasing as a wood stock.
  • Accuracy: While the MVP Patrol is accurate, it's not a match-grade rifle. It's not designed for precision shooting competitions.
  • Trigger Adjustment: While the adjustable trigger is a pro, some users may find it difficult to adjust or may not notice a significant difference in performance.

Alternatives to the Mossberg MVP Patrol

If you're not completely sold on the Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO, there are several alternatives to consider. Each option offers its own set of features and benefits, so it's worth exploring different models to find the one that best suits your needs.

  1. Ruger American Rifle: The Ruger American Rifle is a popular bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy and reliability. It's available in a variety of calibers, including 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington. The Ruger American Rifle features a lightweight synthetic stock, adjustable trigger, and a rotary magazine. It's a great option for those looking for a dependable and accurate rifle at an affordable price.
  2. Savage Axis: The Savage Axis is another budget-friendly bolt-action rifle that offers good value for the money. It's available in a variety of calibers, including 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington. The Savage Axis features a lightweight synthetic stock, adjustable trigger, and a detachable box magazine. It's a solid choice for those who want a reliable rifle without breaking the bank.
  3. Remington 700: The Remington 700 is a classic bolt-action rifle that has been around for decades. It's known for its accuracy and durability. The Remington 700 is available in a variety of calibers, including 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington. It features a wood or synthetic stock, adjustable trigger, and a detachable box magazine. It's a great option for those who want a time-tested and proven rifle.
  4. CZ 527: The CZ 527 is a bolt-action rifle known for its smooth action and accuracy. It's available in a variety of calibers, including 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington. The CZ 527 features a wood stock, adjustable trigger, and a detachable box magazine. It's a great option for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and smooth operation.
  5. Howa Mini Action: The Howa Mini Action is a bolt-action rifle designed for smaller cartridges like the 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington. It features a shorter action and a lighter weight, making it a great option for youth shooters or those who prefer a more compact rifle. The Howa Mini Action features a synthetic stock, adjustable trigger, and a detachable box magazine.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the final verdict on the Mossberg MVP Patrol 5.56 NATO? Overall, it's a solid and versatile rifle that offers a lot of value for the money. Its compatibility with AR-15 magazines is a huge plus, and the adjustable trigger is a nice feature that can improve accuracy. The rifle is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and maneuver. Of course, it's not perfect. The bolt action may not be for everyone, and the synthetic stock is not as aesthetically pleasing as a wood stock. But overall, the MVP Patrol is a reliable and capable rifle that's well-suited for a variety of applications. If you're looking for an affordable and versatile bolt-action rifle in 5.56 NATO, the Mossberg MVP Patrol is definitely worth considering. It's a great option for target shooting, varmint hunting, and general plinking. Plus, it's a fun and easy rifle to shoot, making it a great choice for both experienced shooters and beginners. So, if you're in the market for a new rifle, be sure to check out the Mossberg MVP Patrol. You might just find that it's the perfect fit for you!