Mossberg Patriot 450 Bushmaster 20in Vortex 3-9×40
Pros & cons
What works
- Ready-to-hunt package saves $75 vs. separate purchases and zeroing time
- 6.9-pound total weight balances forward for off-hand stability
- LBA trigger adjusts from 3 to 7 pounds without gunsmithing
- Threaded 20-inch barrel accepts standard .45-cal suppressor mounts
Trade-offs
- Factory scope mounting lacks precision lapping, limiting potential mechanical accuracy
- No thread protector included — requires immediate $15-40 accessory purchase
- 1:24 twist rate won't stabilize bullets over 275 grains effectively
- Plastic trigger guard and magazine catch show wear after 500+ rounds
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
Mossberg Patriot .450 Bushmaster 20in Vortex 3-9×40
The Mossberg Patriot .450 Bushmaster 20in Vortex 3-9×40 is a factory-paired bolt-action rifle and optic package chambered in .450 Bushmaster for large-bore, short-range hunting applications. This configuration delivers a ready-to-hunt platform with a threaded 20-inch barrel, adjustable trigger, and Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 scope mounted from the factory. At $525.99, it eliminates the guesswork for hunters in states that require straight-walled cartridges for deer hunting.
What is the Mossberg Patriot .450 Bushmaster 20in Vortex 3-9×40 used for?
This rifle is purpose-built for hunting medium-to-large game at ranges under 250 yards in states with straight-walled cartridge regulations. Its .450 Bushmaster chambering generates approximately 2,200 foot-pounds of muzzle energy, making it effective for deer and black bear within its ballistic window. The included Vortex scope supports shot placement in low-light timber and brush environments typical of this caliber's use case.
How does the Mossberg Patriot .450 Bushmaster compare to the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester?
The Patriot .450 Bushmaster is better for hunters restricted to straight-walled cartridges, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester is superior for versatility and longer-range ballistics. The .308 Winchester offers flatter trajectories past 200 yards and wider ammunition availability, but the .450 Bushmaster delivers greater terminal energy within 150 yards where legal restrictions apply. For unrestricted hunting, the .308 platform provides more flexible zeroing and holds.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 6.9 pounds (3.13 kg), with an overall length of 40.5 inches (1029 mm) and a 20-inch (508 mm) barrel. The rifle balances 1.7 inches forward of the receiver, contributing to a muzzle-heavy feel that aids off-hand stability but increases perceived weight during extended carries. Width across the bolt handle and safety is 2.8 inches, making it suitable for most standard gun cases.
Who is this NOT for?
This package is not for precision shooters needing sub-MOA accuracy, hunters operating beyond 250 yards, or anyone seeking a lightweight mountain rifle. The factory-mounted scope bases lack precision lapping, limiting ultimate accuracy potential, and the 1:24 twist rate isn't optimized for bullets heavier than 275 grains. For hunters needing lighter weight or a more refined action, a platform like the Stevens 334 in .243 Winchester might better suit extended stalks.
What's in the box?
You receive the Mossberg Patriot rifle with a Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 scope factory-installed on Weaver-style bases, one 4-round detachable box magazine, and a set of Butler Creek flip-up lens caps. The rifle ships with the LBA trigger set to a 3.5-pound pull weight from the factory, and the scope includes Vortex's VIP warranty paperwork. No thread protector or muzzle device is included, requiring a separate 11/16-24 TPI accessory purchase.
Is the Mossberg Patriot .450 Bushmaster worth it at $525.99?
At $525.99, this package offers value for hunters needing immediate, compliant functionality without component selection. Separately, the rifle costs approximately $400 and the Vortex Crossfire II scope about $150, plus $50 for mounting and zeroing, totaling $600. You save roughly $75 and avoid compatibility issues, but accept fixed mounting and a basic synthetic stock that may require aftermarket upgrades for personal fit.
Key attributes
| upc | 015813282468 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 28246 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .450 Bushmaster |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Blue |
| length | 46.4000 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| package height | 3.7 |
| package width | 9.1 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.8 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- What muzzle devices fit the 11/16-24 threading?
- Common .450 Bushmaster muzzle brakes from manufacturers like Ultradyne, Blackhawk, and ATS fit this thread pattern. The 11/16-24 TPI spec is standard for many .45-caliber linear compensators and suppressors rated for the cartridge's 38,500 PSI SAAMI maximum pressure. Always verify suppressor manufacturer approval before direct-threading a can.
- Is the rifle legally considered a Title II firearm or SBR?
- No, the 20-inch barrel keeps it a Title I firearm under federal law. With an overall length of 40.5 inches, it exceeds the 26-inch minimum, and the barrel exceeds the 16-inch SBR threshold. Attaching a suppressor keeps it Title I; attaching a vertical foregrip would require NFA registration as an AOW due to overall configuration.
- Does the included Vortex scope have an illuminated reticle?
- No, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 uses a standard Dead-Hold BDC reticle without illumination. Maximum exit pupil is 5.1mm at 3x, providing adequate light transmission for legal shooting hours. For illuminated options, Vortex's Diamondback or Viper series would be required, adding $100-$200 to the package cost.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing is 1-3 business days via Ironclad Armory, with transit via UPS Ground adding 3-7 business days depending on destination. All firearms ship from our Bozeman facility with next-day air available for $45. Your chosen FFL must have a current, signed copy of our license on file before shipment release.
- Can the LBA trigger be adjusted below 3 pounds?
- Factory specs allow adjustment from 3 to 7 pounds; going below 3 pounds risks sear disengagement. The single-stage mechanism lacks overtravel adjustment and uses a plastic safety block that limits aftermarket spring options. For a crisper break, consider an aftermarket drop-in unit from Timney or Rifle Basix starting at $95.