Mossberg Patriot 28278 6.5mm Creedmoor 18 in. Threaded Bull Rifle
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Mossberg Patriot 28278 is a compact bolt-action rifle chambered in 6.5mm Creedmoor with an 18-inch threaded bull barrel, designed for hunters and precision shooters who need suppressor compatibility in a field-ready package. This rifle features Mossberg's adjustable LBA trigger system and comes optics-ready with a Picatinny rail, making it suitable for both hunting and medium-range target work. At 6.6 pounds unloaded, it strikes a balance between portability and stability that's hard to find in this price category.
What is the Mossberg Patriot 28278 used for?
This rifle is primarily designed for hunting medium game and precision shooting at ranges up to 600 yards. The 6.5mm Creedmoor cartridge delivers excellent ballistic coefficients and energy retention, while the 18-inch threaded barrel allows for suppressor use in states where legal. I've found it particularly effective for deer and elk hunting in wooded terrain where shot opportunities are often under 300 yards.
How does the Mossberg Patriot 28278 compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Patriot outperforms the Stevens 334 in trigger adjustability and suppressor readiness, though the Stevens has a more traditional stock design. Mossberg's LBA trigger is user-adjustable from 2 to 7 pounds compared to the Stevens' fixed 3.5-pound pull, and the Patriot's 5/8×24 threaded muzzle accepts modern suppressors without adapters. For hunters who value customization and NFA compatibility, the Patriot is clearly superior, though the Stevens 334 remains a solid budget option for traditional shooters.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 6.6 pounds unloaded with an overall length of 38.5 inches and barrel length of 18 inches. The bull barrel measures 0.850 inches at the muzzle, providing significant mass for heat dissipation and reduced harmonic vibration. The 13.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters comfortably, though those with exceptionally long arms might find it slightly compact.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for long-range competitive shooters needing sub-MOA guarantees or hunters pursuing dangerous game at close range. The 6.5mm Creedmoor lacks stopping power for brown bear or moose defense, and while accurate, the platform isn't designed for precision rifle competitions where custom actions dominate. If you need guaranteed half-MOA accuracy or require immediate stopping power, consider a .308 Winchester platform or dedicated long-range rifle.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 4-round detachable box magazine and protective thread protector, but no optics, mounting hardware, or additional accessories. Mossberg includes basic safety literature and warranty information, though serious shooters will need to budget for a quality optic and rings. The Picatinny rail accepts standard mounts, but you'll need to supply your own scope and potentially a bipod for field use.
Is the Mossberg Patriot 28278 worth it at $496.99?
At under $500, this rifle delivers exceptional value for hunters needing suppressor compatibility and adjustable trigger performance. The combination of Cerakote finish, threaded barrel, and modern stock design would cost $200-300 more from most competitors, making this one of the best values in the current market. For the price, you're getting features typically found on rifles costing $700-800, though you'll need to invest in quality optics to realize its full potential.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 6.6 lb weight — 1.2 lb lighter than comparable bull barrel rifles
- 5/8×24 threaded muzzle — accepts most modern suppressors without adapters
- Adjustable 2-7 lb trigger — wider range than Stevens 334's fixed 3.5 lb pull
- 18-inch barrel length — balances maneuverability with velocity retention
Trade-offs
- MultiCam stock fixed design — no adjustability for length of pull or comb height
- No included optics or mounts — adds $200-500 to effective cost
- Cerakote finish shows wear — expect visible scratches after 20-30 field uses
- 4-round magazine capacity — lower than some competitors' 5-round options
Key attributes
| upc | 015813282789 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 28278 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | BROWN |
| length | 46.7000 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| package height | 3.75 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.15 |
| sights | No Sights |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers and fires all SAAMI-spec 6.5mm Creedmoor ammunition from 120-147 grain. I've tested Federal Premium, Hornady Precision Hunter, and Sig Sauer Elite Performance without issues. The 1:8 twist rate stabilizes bullets up to 147 grains effectively.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the 38.5-inch overall length fits most 42-inch takedown rifle cases with room to spare. I use a Plano All-Weather case with foam inserts, and it accommodates the rifle with scope mounted. Allow 2-3 inches extra length if adding a suppressor.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping to Montana taking 3-5 additional days. All firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required. During peak season, allow up to 7 business days for delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unused firearms in original packaging, minus a 15% restocking fee. Federal regulations require all returns to go through an FFL, so you'll need to coordinate with your local dealer. Used firearms cannot be returned due to ATF regulations.