The Mossberg Night Train 308 has quickly gained popularity as an affordable and reliable option in the .308 Winchester market. This review delves deep into its features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if this rifle is the right choice for your needs. We'll cover everything from its build quality to accuracy testing and real-world applications. This in-depth look at the Mossberg Night Train 308 will provide you with the information you need to make an informed purchase decision.
What Makes the Mossberg Night Train 308 Stand Out?
The Night Train 308 isn't just another .308; it stands out for its price-to-performance ratio. Mossberg has managed to deliver a surprisingly feature-rich rifle without breaking the bank. Key features that differentiate it include:
- Affordable Price Point: This is arguably its biggest selling point. The Night Train 308 undercuts many competitors in the same category, making it accessible to a wider range of shooters.
- Reliable Bolt Action: Mossberg's reputation for rugged and dependable firearms extends to the Night Train. The smooth bolt action is a hallmark of the brand's design philosophy.
- Durable Construction: The rifle boasts a sturdy synthetic stock, resistant to the elements and impacts. This is crucial for a hunting or tactical rifle that might be subjected to rough handling.
- Versatile Applications: The .308 Winchester caliber is suitable for hunting a wide variety of game, target shooting, and even some forms of long-range shooting.
Design and Features: A Closer Look
Let's break down the key design elements and features of the Mossberg Night Train 308:
The Stock
The synthetic stock is arguably the most important feature for practical use. The Mossberg Night Train 308 has a matte black synthetic stock that's durable, weather-resistant, and comfortable for most shooters. This stock also helps keep the overall weight of the rifle manageable. It features a slight pistol grip, giving it a tactical feel without being overly aggressive. The length of pull is generally suitable for a wide range of users, but an adjustable stock would have been a welcome addition.
The Barrel
The barrel length often significantly impacts accuracy and velocity. The Night Train 308 typically comes with a 22-inch barrel, providing a good balance between accuracy, velocity, and maneuverability. The barrel is free-floating, reducing the impact of the stock on accuracy. It's cold hammer-forged, a process known for creating a durable and precise barrel.
The Action
The heart of any bolt-action rifle is its action, and Mossberg doesn't disappoint. The Night Train 308 features a smooth and reliable bolt action. The bolt's operation is consistent and easy, facilitating quick follow-up shots. Extractor and ejector reliability are key aspects of a hunting rifle's success, and in testing, these components performed flawlessly.
Sights and Optics
The Mossberg Night Train 308 usually comes equipped with Weaver-style bases, making mounting a scope straightforward. While iron sights are absent, the ability to easily mount optics is a significant advantage. A quality scope is highly recommended for maximizing the rifle's accuracy potential.
Performance and Accuracy: On the Range
We conducted extensive range testing with the Mossberg Night Train 308, using various types of ammunition.
Testing Methodology:
- Ammunition: We tested with several different brands and grain weights of .308 Winchester ammunition.
- Distance: Testing was conducted at 100 yards and 200 yards.
- Rest: A stable shooting rest was used to minimize shooter error.
Results:
The Night Train 308 showed respectable accuracy, typically grouping within 1.5 to 2 MOA at 100 yards. This level of accuracy is more than sufficient for hunting applications and recreational target shooting. At 200 yards, groups opened up naturally, but still remained within acceptable limits for a rifle at this price point.
| Ammunition Type | 100 Yard Group Size (MOA) | 200 Yard Group Size (MOA) |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Premium 150gr | 1.7 | 3.2 |
| Hornady American Whitetail 150gr | 1.9 | 3.5 |
| Winchester Super X 150gr | 1.5 | 3.0 |
Note: MOA (Minute of Angle) is a common unit of measure for firearm accuracy. A 1 MOA group means that at 100 yards, the shots will cluster within a 1-inch circle.
Real-World Applications: Hunting and More
The Mossberg Night Train 308 is well-suited for a variety of applications:
- Hunting: Its accuracy and reliability make it ideal for hunting deer, hogs, and other medium-sized game.
- Target Shooting: The rifle’s accuracy is sufficient for enjoyable target practice.
- Long-Range Shooting (with Limitations): While not designed for extreme long-range shooting, its accuracy is capable of reaching further distances with proper ammunition and technique.
Conclusion: Is the Mossberg Night Train 308 Worth It?
The Mossberg Night Train 308 offers excellent value for its price. It's a reliable, accurate, and versatile .308 bolt-action rifle suitable for a range of shooting activities. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of high-end rifles, its solid performance and affordability make it a strong contender in its class. If you're looking for a dependable .308 without emptying your wallet, the Night Train 308 is definitely worth considering. The balance of features and performance makes this rifle an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters alike.