Description
I remember the first time I handed a full-size .308 to a younger shooter or someone with a smaller frame. The look of apprehension was real. That’s the exact problem the Mossberg Patriot Super Bantam .308 20″ Fluted Barrel Adjustable Stock 5rd solves. It’s a compact, lightweight hunting rifle chambered in a proven big-game caliber, designed from the ground up for shooters who need a shorter length of pull without sacrificing power. I’ve run a box of Federal Power-Shok 150gr through one, and it’s a surprisingly gentle package for the punch it packs.
Here’s the capsule answer: The Mossberg Patriot Super Bantam .308 is a compact, adjustable-stock bolt-action rifle built for smaller-statured hunters and youth. It features a 20-inch fluted barrel for weight reduction and stiffness, a user-adjustable stock to grow with the shooter, and a 5-round capacity. It delivers full-power .308 Winchester performance in a manageable, ergonomic platform that’s ready for the field right out of the box.
Let’s talk about that adjustable L.O.P. stock—it’s the heart of the Super Bantam system. You can tweak the length of pull from a compact 12 inches all the way out to a more standard 13.75 inches with included spacers. This isn’t a gimmick; it’s a legitimate way to make one rifle fit a wide range of users, from a growing teen to an adult with a shorter reach. The fact that it’s drop-in ready and requires no gunsmithing to adjust is a huge win. The stock itself is a durable synthetic, and the overall package weighs in at a very carry-friendly 6.5 pounds. That’s a weight you’ll appreciate after a long day in a Missouri treestand.
The 20-inch barrel is another smart choice. It’s fluted, which shaves ounces and aids in cooling, but more importantly, it keeps the rifle’s overall length and balance in check for a compact platform. You’re not giving up much ballistic performance with a 20-inch tube in .308, especially for the ethical hunting distances common in our woods and fields. The barrel is free-floated, which promotes consistency, and it’s topped with a drilled and tapped receiver ready for your choice of optics. I’ve found that pairing it with a compact scope like a Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 keeps the profile sleek and the weight down.
The action uses Mossberg’s Lightning Bolt Action (LBA) trigger, which is user-adjustable from 2 to 7 pounds. From the factory, it’s typically set to a crisp, clean break around 3-4 pounds—a very respectable pull for a rifle in this price bracket. The tang safety is intuitive and easy to operate, a feature I always appreciate on a hunting rifle. The bottom metal houses a detachable box magazine with a 5-round capacity, which is more than enough for any hunting scenario and keeps the lines clean.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .308 Winchester |
| Barrel | 20″ Fluted, Threaded (½”-28) |
| Overall Length | 40.5″ (Min. LOP) |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Stock | Adjustable Synthetic (12″ – 13.75″ LOP) |
Pros & Cons (My Take):
The pros are clear: exceptional adjustability for fit, a potent caliber in a lightweight package, and a fluted barrel that adds value. The trigger is a standout feature for the price. On the flip side, the synthetic stock, while durable, won’t win beauty contests. The action can feel a bit utilitarian compared to some higher-end models, but it’s reliable. For $364.71, you’re getting a ton of functional rifle.
Who is this rifle for? It’s perfect for a young hunter’s first big-game rifle, a smaller-framed adult who’s been struggling with standard-sized guns, or as a compact, handy woods rifle for anyone. It’s also an excellent choice for a mentor setting up a loaner rifle for new shooters, thanks to that adjustable stock. This configuration is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable regulations, of course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .308 too much recoil for a youth shooter in this rifle?
A: It’s a fair concern, but the .308 in this platform is manageable. The adjustable stock lets you get a proper fit, which is 90% of recoil management. The rifle’s weight and the stock’s design help absorb a good bit. Starting with lighter 150-grain loads and proper shooting instruction makes it a very viable first big-game rifle.
Q: Can the stock be adjusted for a left-handed shooter?
A: The adjustable spacers work the same way for length of pull, but the stock itself and the action are right-handed only. Mossberg does offer left-handed Patriots, but not typically in the Super Bantam adjustable configuration. Right-hand operation is a fixed spec on this model.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?
A: With its free-floated barrel and adjustable trigger, the Patriot is a capable 1.5 to 2 MOA rifle with quality factory ammo. That’s more than sufficient for deer, hog, or black bear hunting at reasonable distances. I’ve seen them shoot even tighter with handloads or specific ammo they “like.”
If you’ve been looking for a .308 that finally fits you or a new hunter in your life, the Mossberg Patriot Super Bantam deserves a close look. Check its availability on our site.
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