The Mossberg Patriot 308 is a popular choice among hunters and shooters for its accuracy, affordability, and versatility. But a rifle is only as good as its magazine, and understanding the intricacies of the Mossberg Patriot 308 magazine is crucial for a smooth and reliable shooting experience. This guide delves into everything you need to know about these magazines, from compatibility and capacity to troubleshooting common issues and finding suitable alternatives.
Understanding Mossberg Patriot 308 Magazine Compatibility
The Mossberg Patriot 308 utilizes a detachable box magazine, a design choice that offers significant advantages in terms of reloading speed and ease of use. However, not all .308 magazines are created equal. While the Patriot is designed to work with its proprietary magazines, some aftermarket options may offer compatibility with varying degrees of success. Always check the manufacturer's specifications before purchasing any aftermarket magazine to ensure proper fit and function. Using an incompatible magazine can lead to malfunctions, jams, and even damage to your firearm.
Standard Capacity Magazines
The standard capacity for Mossberg Patriot 308 magazines is typically 4 rounds. This is often dictated by state hunting regulations and is a common capacity for many hunting rifles. However, some states may allow higher-capacity magazines, and aftermarket options exist that offer greater capacity, though these are generally less suitable for hunting due to increased weight and potential for malfunctions in less-than-ideal conditions.
Extended Capacity Magazines (Where Legal)
Extended capacity magazines for the Mossberg Patriot 308 are available from various aftermarket manufacturers. These magazines typically hold more rounds than the standard 4-round variant, often holding 10 rounds or more. It’s crucial to remember that laws concerning magazine capacity vary significantly by location. Before purchasing or using an extended capacity magazine, verify its legality in your area to avoid legal repercussions.
Troubleshooting Common Mossberg Patriot 308 Magazine Issues
Even with compatible magazines, you might encounter occasional problems. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:
Magazine Feeding Problems
- Issue: The rifle fails to feed rounds reliably from the magazine.
- Possible Causes: Damaged magazine follower, bent magazine lips, dirt or debris in the magazine, or improper magazine seating.
- Solutions: Inspect the magazine for damage, clean the magazine thoroughly, ensure the magazine is fully seated in the rifle, and consider replacing the magazine if damage is significant.
Magazine Release Issues
- Issue: Difficulty releasing the magazine from the rifle.
- Possible Causes: Dirt or debris obstructing the magazine release button, worn or damaged magazine release button, or damage to the magazine catch.
- Solutions: Clean the magazine well and magazine release button, inspect for damage, and consider professional repair or replacement if necessary.
Finding Suitable Alternatives and Upgrading Your Magazines
While the Mossberg Patriot's standard magazines are generally reliable, some shooters may prefer to explore alternative options. Several reputable aftermarket manufacturers offer magazines specifically designed for the Mossberg Patriot 308, sometimes offering enhancements such as improved feeding reliability or different capacity options. However, thorough research and careful selection are essential to ensure compatibility and reliability.
Remember always to prioritize safety and adherence to all applicable laws and regulations when selecting and using magazines for your firearm.
Conclusion
Choosing the right magazine is crucial for a positive shooting experience with your Mossberg Patriot 308. Understanding magazine compatibility, troubleshooting common issues, and exploring alternative options empowers you to maximize your rifle's performance and reliability. Always practice safe gun handling and refer to the manufacturer's instructions for detailed information and guidance.
