Description
Picture this: you’re set up on a Missouri bean field edge at first light, the prairie dogs are starting to pop their heads up, and you need a rifle that’s as steady as your coffee cup. That’s the exact scenario where the Mossberg MVP Varmint Bolt 204 Ruger 24″ Barrel, Laminate Benchrest Gray Stock, Scope, LBA Trigger, 10rd shines. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of Hornady through this platform, and it’s built for one job: making small, fast targets a whole lot easier.
So, what is it? It’s a purpose-built, bolt-action varmint rifle chambered in the flat-shooting .204 Ruger. The package includes a 24-inch heavy barrel for velocity and stability, a laminate benchrest-style stock for a solid field rest, a factory-mounted scope, Mossberg’s adjustable LBA trigger, and it feeds from detachable 10-round magazines. At $632.52, it’s a complete, ready-to-zero system for the serious pest controller.
Built for the Bench (or the Truck Door)
Let’s start with the foundation. That gray laminate stock isn’t just for looks—it’s dense, rigid, and virtually impervious to weather. It provides a rock-steady platform that minimizes harmonics and flex, which is critical when you’re trying to connect at 300+ yards. The wide, flat forend sits perfectly on a sandbag or bipod. I paired mine with a Harris-style bipod, and it was drop-in ready, no gunsmithing required. The 24-inch heavy-contour barrel does two things exceptionally well: it lets the .204 Ruger cartridge reach its potential velocity, and the added mass out front reduces muzzle jump, letting you spot your own hits through the scope.
The Heart of the System: Trigger & Action
Here’s the thing—a varmint rifle is only as good as its trigger. Mossberg’s LBA (Layered Blade Assembly) trigger is a standout feature. It’s user-adjustable from 3 to 7 pounds, and the break on the one I tested was crisp and clean right out of the box. A good trigger is the cheapest accuracy upgrade you can get, and having it included is a major plus. The MVP action itself is smooth and features a unique benefit: it accepts standard AR-15 style magazines. That means your plentiful, affordable 10-round .204 Ruger AR mags work perfectly here, simplifying your gear list.
Specifications at a Glance
| Caliber | .204 Ruger |
| Barrel Length | 24″ Heavy Contour |
| Overall Length | 44.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 8.5 lbs (unscoped) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds (Detachable Box) |
| Stock | Laminate, Benchrest Gray |
| Trigger | Adjustable LBA |
Pros & Cons: The Straight Talk
Pros: The package is incredibly complete—scope, mounts, and a great trigger are all included. The laminate stock and heavy barrel make it a tack-driver. Magazine compatibility with common AR-platform .204 Ruger mags is a huge logistical win. The .204 Ruger round itself offers laser-like trajectory and minimal recoil.
Cons: That 8.5+ pound weight (closer to 10 lbs scoped) makes it a dedicated bench or set-up rifle, not a walking rifle. The .204 Ruger, while excellent, is a more specialized caliber than .223 Remington, so ammo selection might be slightly narrower at some local shops.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Mossberg MVP Varmint is for the shooter who has a prairie dog town, coyote problem, or ground squirrel colony to manage. It’s for the detail-oriented hunter who values a stable shot over portability. If you’re looking for a single, accurate tool to leave in your truck or set up on a known perch, this rifle eliminates excuses. It’s also a fantastic entry into precision rimfire-style shooting without the rimfire ammo cost, thanks to its solid out-of-the-box configuration. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, and this model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What scope is included with the rifle?
A: Mossberg typically packages this model with a 3-9x40mm scope mounted and bore-sighted. It’s a functional starter optic that gets you on paper, though many serious varminters eventually upgrade to a higher-magnification scope with target turrets for those long-range shots.
Q: Can I use other magazines besides the included 10-rounder?
A: Absolutely. One of the best features is that the Mossberg MVP action is designed to use readily available SR-25/AR-10 pattern magazines in .204 Ruger. Brands like Magpul and ASC make reliable options, giving you flexibility in capacity and sourcing.
Q: Is the .204 Ruger suitable for anything besides varmints?
A: Its primary design is for small to medium varmints (prairie dogs, groundhogs, coyotes). While capable, it is not generally recommended for larger game like deer due to its light, fast bullet construction designed for explosive expansion on small targets. Always check local game regulations.
If this sounds like the dedicated solution you’ve been looking for on your property or hunting lease, you can find the full details on our site.
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