Mossberg expanding MVP series with new Patrol rifles

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Mossberg is adding four new models of MVP—Mossberg Varmint Predator—rifles to their catalog for 2013. The new rifles make up the Patrol series, and are compact workhorse bolt guns chambered in 5.56 NATO and 300 AAC Blackout.

Obviously marketed towards law enforcement and other civil servants that could use a good rifle, the MVP Patrol rifles will no doubt find homes with shooters of all types.

The MVP is a Mossberg 4×4 that accepts AR-15 box magazines. Otherwise it’s a straightforward bolt-action rifle with eyes on simplicity and accuracy while still keeping costs down. The Patrol rifles differ from the standard MVP; they have black stocks and short, 16-inch bull barrels.

Mossberg guarantees that their MVP rifles shoot 1 MOA out of the box. They have target crowns in addition to the heavy barrels.

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We like the spread of configurations, too. The basic MVP patrol rifle will be offered with and without threaded barrels. Models with threaded barrels are fit with A2-style flash hiders; these will also be offered in 300 BLK. Mossberg will also introduce a complete kit  that includes an illuminated 3-9x32mm scope. The scoped version will include neoprene cheek risers.

These models really add to the appeal of the MVP, which is a fine small-to-medium game rifle and bench rest shooter, but not an all-purpose utility rifle like the new Patrols. The new stock style and shorter barrel make the Patrol rifles a lot lighter than the original MVP with its laminate stock and 24-inch barrel. The Patrol rifles weigh seven pounds, (compared to 9.5) eight with the scope. The stock is birchwood, with a non-slip matte black textured finish. Mossberg is working on another MVP stock that accepts AR-15 buttstocks and pistol grips.

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Another improvement that’s sure to appeal is that the Patrol comes with iron sights. It’s a wallet-friendly gun but that doesn’t mean Mossberg overlooked this increasingly uncommon feature. The rear sight is adjustable and the front has a fiber optic insert. All come with rails for scopes.

Otherwise they’re not different from the original MVP. They have Mossberg’s LBA adjustable trigger, spiral-fluted bolts and work with AR-15 magazines.

Frankly, you don’t have to be in law enforcement to want one of these guns. Mossberg really nailed it with this spread; about the only thing we could hope for is maybe a version with an 18- or 20-inch barrel. That being said, the 16-inch barrel makes it perfect for use with AR-15 glass and is begging for a can.

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