Mossberg Patriot Predator 6.5 PRC 24in Strata Camo

About this product

The Mossberg Patriot Predator 6.5 PRC 24in Strata Camo is a factory-ready, bolt-action hunting rifle built for shooters who need ethical terminal performance at extended ranges without custom gunsmithing. It delivers this through a precise 1:8" twist 24-inch barrel chambered in the modern 6.5 PRC cartridge, paired with a purpose-built chassis and synthetic stock. At $532.99, it enters a competitive segment dominated by rifles like the Stevens 334, forcing a direct comparison on value versus pure mechanical refinement.

What is the Mossberg Patriot Predator used for?

The Patriot Predator is designed for medium to large game hunting at distances where traditional cartridges like .308 Winchester begin to struggle. It excels where shots present between 200 and 500 yards on species like elk, mule deer, or pronghorn, leveraging the 6.5 PRC's flat trajectory and high ballistic coefficient. This platform prioritizes a clean first-round impact to ensure an ethical harvest, supported by the rifle's 5/8"-24 threaded muzzle for suppressor or brake attachment to manage recoil.

How does the Mossberg Patriot Predator compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?

The Patriot Predator offers a more specialized long-range cartridge and a threaded barrel versus the utilitarian, general-purpose Stevens 334. For the shooter focused solely on long-range hunting performance with the 6.5 PRC, the Patriot Predator is the better tool; it weighs 7.8 lbs unloaded, has a 24-inch barrel optimized for that cartridge's powder burn, and includes a factory Picatinny rail. The Stevens 334 in .308 Win is the better choice for a budget-conscious, do-everything rifle where ammunition cost and availability at local stores are primary concerns, as seen in our .308 Winchester model review.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This rifle weighs 7.8 pounds without an optic or mounts and measures 44.5 inches in overall length with its 24-inch barrel. The 13.75-inch length of pull provides a solid anchor point for most adult shooters, and the fluted barrel shaves approximately 4-6 ounces compared to a standard contour. When paired with a scope and mount adding another 1.5 to 2 pounds, the total system weight lands near 9.5 pounds, which remains manageable for extended stalks but is noticeably heavier than a compact shotgun like the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact at 6.2 lbs.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for the new shooter, the budget plinker, or anyone uncomfortable with the recoil and ammunition cost of a magnum-cartridge platform. The 6.5 PRC generates significant muzzle energy, requires disciplined shooting fundamentals, and costs nearly $2.50 per round for factory hunting ammo. It’s also a poor choice for dense brush hunting where shots under 100 yards are the norm; the long barrel becomes a hindrance, and the cartridge's performance is wasted.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete rifle, a single 3-round detachable box magazine, and the necessary paperwork. That's it. Unlike some higher-tier offerings, there is no include scope base (though the rail is pre-installed), no sling, no case, and no accessory pack. Plan to spend an additional $200-$400 minimum on a quality scope, rings, a bipod or sling, and hearing protection before the rifle is field-ready.

Is the Mossberg Patriot Predator worth it at $532.99?

Yes, for the specific hunter who has identified the 6.5 PRC as their required cartridge and wants a no-fuss, optic-ready platform. At this price point, you are getting a functional, accurate rifle with critical features like a threaded barrel and adjustable trigger, avoiding the $800+ entry fee of many competing long-range platforms. The value proposition collapses if you do not actually need the long-range capabilities of the 6.5 PRC; in that case, a standard .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor rifle would save you money on both the initial purchase and every round fired.