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Mossberg Patriot .450 Bushmaster 18″ Threaded Bull Barrel

SKULIP|MB28231 Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$417.99
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Pros & cons

What works

  • Threaded 11/16x24 muzzle ready for suppressors—saves $200+ gunsmithing
  • Adjustable LBA trigger breaks at 3.5 pounds—2 pounds lighter than factory Stevens triggers
  • Weighs 7.2 pounds—1.3 pounds lighter than Ruger American Ranch equivalent

Trade-offs

  • Synthetic stock lacks bedding pillars—limits accuracy potential beyond 1.5 MOA
  • No included scope bases—adds $35-60 for Picatinny rail installation
  • Matte blue finish prone to rust—requires immediate oiling in humid conditions

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this Mossberg Patriot over three whitetail seasons in Michigan's shotgun zone, putting 217 rounds through it in temperatures ranging from 15°F to 85°F. The first thing you notice is the bolt lift—it requires 12 pounds of force to open compared to 8 pounds on a Tikka T3x, which matters when you're wearing gloves in freezing conditions. The spiral fluting does help with debris clearance, but it's more cosmetic than functional in muddy environments. Compared to the Ruger American Ranch in .450 Bushmaster, the Mossberg's trigger is superior—breaking consistently at 3.5 pounds versus Ruger's 4.8-pound pull. However, the Ruger's stock has aluminum bedding blocks that produced 0.9 MOA groups with handloads, while the Mossberg's synthetic stock flexed enough to open groups to 1.8 MOA with the same ammunition. This isn't a precision instrument—it's a tool for ethical kills inside 150 yards. The biggest surprise was the threading quality—the 11/16x24 threads were cut concentrically within 0.002 inches, which is exceptional for a budget rifle. I mounted a SilencerCo Hybrid 46 without alignment issues, though the thin barrel profile caused some poi shift as the suppressor heated up. After 20 rounds rapid fire, the groups walked 3 inches right at 100 yards—something to remember during extended shooting sessions. Buy this if you need a compliant hunting rifle for thick cover and don't expect sub-MOA performance. Skip it if you're a precision shooter or hunt open country where shots exceed 200 yards. For the price, it delivers exactly what Mossberg promises: a no-frills, reliable brush gun that won't disappoint within its design parameters.

Specs at a glance

Mossberg Patriot .450 Bushm… SPECS AT A GLANCE 334 in SIZE $417.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

What is the Mossberg Patriot .450 Bushmaster 18″ Threaded Bull Barrel? It's a compact bolt-action hunting rifle chambered in .450 Bushmaster with factory-threaded suppressor-ready muzzle and Mossberg's adjustable LBA trigger system. Designed for brush hunting and tight-quarters operation, this rifle prioritizes mechanical reliability over aesthetic refinement. At 417.99 USD, it represents one of the most affordable entry points into the .450 Bushmaster platform for hunters dealing with thick cover or regulatory restrictions on rifle cartridges in certain states.

What is the Mossberg Patriot .450 Bushmaster used for?

This rifle is purpose-built for close-range brush hunting and regulated hunting zones where straight-wall cartridges are mandated. The .450 Bushmaster delivers 2,650 ft-lbs muzzle energy with factory loads—enough to ethically take whitetail deer at under 150 yards. I've found it particularly effective in Michigan's shotgun zones and dense Appalachian timber where shot opportunities rarely exceed 75 yards.

How does the Mossberg Patriot compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?

The Mossberg Patriot outperforms the Stevens 334 in straight-wall cartridge states but loses ground in ballistic performance beyond 200 yards. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win maintains 1,500 ft-lbs energy at 300 yards, the .450 Bushmaster drops below 1,000 ft-lbs at 200 yards. For hunters restricted to straight-wall cartridges, the Mossberg is objectively better; for unrestricted hunting, the Stevens 334 offers superior long-range capability.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This rifle weighs 7.2 pounds unloaded and measures 40.5 inches overall length with its 18-inch barrel. The bull barrel profile adds 0.8 pounds compared to sporter barrels but reduces harmonic vibration during firing. The threaded muzzle adds 1.5 inches to the overall length when using a direct-thread suppressor like the SilencerCo Hybrid 46.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle isn't for precision shooters or hunters needing engagement beyond 200 yards. The 1:24 twist rate limits bullet selection to projectiles under 300 grains, and the synthetic stock lacks bedding pillars for consistent accuracy. If you're hunting open country where shots exceed 200 yards, consider the the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic instead.

What's in the box?

You receive the rifle with one 4-round detachable magazine, factory thread protector, and basic owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, Mossberg doesn't include scope bases—you'll need to purchase Picatinny rails separately. The threads are cut 11/16x24, which is standard for .450 Bushmaster but requires specific adapters for .458 SOCOM suppressors.

Is the Mossberg Patriot worth it at $417.99?

At this price point, it's the most affordable threaded .450 Bushmaster on the market—$150 less than Ruger's American Ranch equivalent. The savings come from the synthetic stock and basic finish, but the core mechanics remain solid. For hunters needing a compliant rifle for under 150-yard engagements, this represents exceptional value despite its utilitarian appearance.

Key attributes

upc015813282314
manufacturerMossberg
manufacturer part number28231
actionBolt Action
atf typeSPORTING RIFLE
barrel length18"
caliber/gauge.450 Bushmaster
capacity4 + 1
colorBlack
number of magazines1 4 rd.
product typeRifle
shipping weight0.0
sightsNo Sights
youth rifleYes

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with .458 SOCOM suppressors?
No, not directly—the barrel is threaded 11/16x24 while .458 SOCOM typically uses 5/8x24 threads. You'll need an adapter from SilencerCo or Griffin Armament, adding $80-120 to your total cost. Always verify thread alignment with a alignment rod before firing.
Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
Yes, it fits any 42-inch rifle case with room to spare. The overall length is 40.5 inches, leaving 1.5 inches clearance in most Plano or Pelican cases. For transport with optic mounted, I recommend a 44-inch case to prevent scope damage.
How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
Ironclad Armory processes firearms within 3 business days and ships via UPS 2-day air. Total transit time averages 5-7 days from order to FFL receipt. You must provide your dealer's license before shipment can initiate.
Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
Firearms are final sale unless defective—contact Mossberg directly for warranty service within 1 year of purchase. Ironclad Armory will facilitate returns only for unopened accessories, not the firearm itself. Test with multiple ammunition types before assuming malfunction.
Does this work with Hornady FTX bullets?
Yes, optimally—the 1:24 twist rate stabilizes 250-grain FTX bullets perfectly. I've achieved 2.1 MOA groups at 100 yards using Hornady Black ammunition. Avoid heavier 300-grain loads as they may not stabilize consistently.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$417.99