How Does the Mossberg 802 Plinkster Compare to Other Rifles?

While the Mossberg 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo holds its ground as an excellent rifle for those seeking accuracy and reliability without breaking the bank, it’s important to understand how it stacks up against other rifles in its category. By comparing the 802 Plinkster to other similar .22 LR rifles, we can get a better sense of its strengths and limitations.

Mossberg 802 Plinkster vs. Ruger American Rimfire

One of the most well-known rifles in the .22 LR category is the Ruger American Rimfire, which is often touted as a competitor to the Mossberg 802 Plinkster. The Ruger American Rimfire offers several advantages in terms of features and build quality but comes with a higher price tag.Mossberg International 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo: A Comprehensive Review (Continued)

Price:

The Ruger American Rimfire is typically more expensive than the Mossberg 802 Plinkster, priced around $350-$400. This price point may be prohibitive for some shooters, particularly those new to firearms.

Build Quality:

The Ruger American Rimfire is renowned for its excellent build quality, with a wooden stock or synthetic options that are both ergonomic and durable. The 802 Plinkster, on the other hand, is designed with a more basic synthetic stock. While the Mossberg is still durable, the Ruger American Rimfire may feel more refined, especially for those who appreciate wood stocks.

Accuracy:

Both rifles are known for their accuracy, though the Ruger American Rimfire has a reputation for slightly better precision, especially when paired with higher-quality optics. That said, the Mossberg 802 Plinkster with its included scope is a great entry-level rifle for users who want reliable performance at a more affordable price.

Scope and Optics:

The Ruger American Rimfire does not come with a scope included, requiring users to purchase and mount optics separately, which can increase the total cost. The Mossberg 802 Plinkster, however, comes with a pre-mounted 4×32 scope, making it an attractive package for budget-conscious shooters.

Overall, the Ruger American Rimfire

Overall, the Ruger American Rimfire may be a better option for those seeking a more polished rifle with a slightly higher level of precision. However, the Mossberg 802 Plinkster offers tremendous value, especially when factoring in the included scope.

Mossberg 802 Plinkster vs. Savage Mark II

Another strong competitor in the .22 LR rifle market is the Savage Mark II, which is often seen as a competitor to the Mossberg 802 Plinkster. Like the Ruger American Rimfire, the Savage Mark II is known for its accuracy, but it also comes at a higher price point than the Mossberg 802 Plinkster.

Price:

The Savage Mark II is priced around $250-$350, which places it slightly above the Mossberg 802 Plinkster in terms of cost. It also provides a solid value, especially for those looking for a bit more versatility.

Build Quality:

The Savage Mark II typically comes with a heavier barrel, which can enhance accuracy at longer ranges but also makes the rifle less lightweight than the Mossberg 802 Plinkster. While the Mossberg 802 Plinkster is designed with portability in mind, the Savage Mark II feels more robust and solid overall.

Accuracy:

The Savage Mark II is known for its superb accuracy, thanks to its heavier barrel and solid construction. However, for casual target shooting, plinking, or small game hunting, the Mossberg 802 Plinkster provides more than enough accuracy to meet most users’ needs.

Scope and Optics:

The Mossberg 802 Plinkster comes with a factory-installed scope, which is a great perk for those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of buying and mounting optics. The Savage Mark II does not come with a scope, so buyers will need to factor the cost of optics into the overall purchase price.

the Mossberg 802 Plinkster to the Savage Mark II

When comparing the Mossberg 802 Plinkster to the Savage Mark II, it’s clear that the Mossberg is a more affordable option. For beginner or intermediate shooters who aren’t looking for the highest-end rifle available, the 802 Plinkster offers a great balance of price, accuracy, and convenience.

Mossberg 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo for Small Game Hunting

While the Mossberg 802 Plinkster is widely known as a great plinking rifle, it also shines in the realm of small game hunting. Thanks to its lightweight design, ease of use, and the power of the .22 LR cartridge, it’s a perfect companion for hunters targeting smaller animals like squirrels, rabbits, and birds.

Small Game Hunting Performance

The .22 LR cartridge is ideal for small game hunting because it offers sufficient power to humanely take down smaller creatures without causing excessive damage to the meat. At ranges of up to 100 yards, the 802 Plinkster is highly effective, providing shooters with excellent accuracy when paired with the included 4×32 scope.

the 802 Plinkster

The compact nature of the rifle also makes it an excellent choice for hunters who need to traverse forests or dense brush. It’s easy to carry and maneuver, allowing you to take quick, controlled shots when needed. Furthermore, the minimal recoil of the 802 Plinkster ensures that hunters can take multiple shots with ease, especially in the event of a missed shot.

 the Mossberg 802 Plinkster is a reliable and affordable option

For hunters who primarily target small game and aren’t concerned with long-range shots, the Mossberg 802 Plinkster is a reliable and affordable option. The factory-installed scope makes it even easier to aim at small, distant targets, which is especially useful when hunting animals like squirrels or rabbits that tend to be cautious and difficult to spot.

Effective Range for Small Game

The Mossberg 802 Plinkster is not built for long-range shooting, and its effective range for small game hunting generally falls within 50 to 100 yards. At these distances, the rifle performs very well, delivering consistent shots when properly aimed. Given the relatively low velocity of the .22 LR round, shots beyond 100 yards may begin to lose effectiveness and accuracy, especially if not aimed precisely.

 the 802 Plinkster delivers great performance

That said, for close to medium-range hunting, the 802 Plinkster delivers great performance. If you’re a hunter looking for a lightweight, reliable rifle for small game, this rifle is definitely worth considering. It excels at close to mid-range shooting, which is the typical range for small game hunting.

How the Mossberg 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo Performs for Target Shooting and Plinking

Target shooting and plinking are two of the most common activities associated with the .22 LR caliber, and the Mossberg 802 Plinkster is an ideal rifle for these purposes. Whether you’re a competitive shooter looking for a practice rifle or just someone looking to enjoy a fun day at the range, the 802 Plinkster has a lot to offer.

Fun and Engaging Plinking

The primary purpose of plinking is recreational shooting, usually with the goal of hitting a variety of fun targets like cans, bottles, or clay pigeons. The Mossberg 802 Plinkster excels in this role, providing an affordable and reliable option for shooters who want to spend a day enjoying the sport without worrying about ammunition costs or heavy recoil.

 the Mossberg 802 Plinkster’s accuracy and smooth operation

Thanks to the low recoil and lightweight design, shooters can quickly get back on target after each shot, making it easy to shoot multiple rounds without tiring. Whether you’re engaging in casual plinking or training with more formal targets, the Mossberg 802 Plinkster’s accuracy and smooth operation make it a fantastic choice for these activities.

Target Shooting Performance

For more formal target shooting, the Mossberg 802 Plinkster is capable of delivering impressive results, especially at shorter distances. The included 4×32 scope enhances accuracy, providing a clear sight picture that makes hitting targets easier. The rifle’s bolt-action mechanism ensures consistent and precise shots, which is ideal for target shooting in disciplines like benchrest or small bore.

high-end precision rifles at long distances

While it may not compete with high-end precision rifles at long distances, the Mossberg 802 Plinkster’s ability to hold its own at the 25 to 100-yard range makes it an excellent option for informal target shooting and training.mossberg plinkster 802

Maintenance and Care for the Mossberg 802 Plinkster

To keep the Mossberg 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo in top condition, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance. This ensures the rifle continues to function smoothly and maintains its accuracy over time.

Cleaning and Lubrication

After each shooting session, it’s important to clean the barrel to remove any residue left behind by the .22 LR cartridges. The process begins by using a cleaning rod with a patch or brush to scrub the barrel and remove any lead or powder fouling. Use a solvent that is specifically designed for cleaning .22 LR firearms to ensure you don’t damage the rifle’s internals.mossberg plinkster 802

After cleaning the barrel

After cleaning the barrel, wipe down the exterior of the rifle with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated. Pay special attention to the bolt mechanism and the trigger assembly, ensuring that both are clean and free from debris.mossberg plinkster 802

 lubricate the moving parts of the rifle

Next, lightly lubricate the moving parts of the rifle, such as the bolt, with a high-quality gun oil. This will help maintain smooth operation and prevent corrosion.mossberg plinkster 802

Scope Care

While the rifle’s barrel and internals require cleaning, the scope also needs attention. Be sure to keep the lens free of dirt, dust, and smudges by using a lens cloth or a soft brush. It’s also a good idea to check the scope’s mounting screws periodically to ensure that the optics remain securely attached to the rifle.

Storage

When not in use, store the Mossberg 802 Plinkster in a safe, dry place. Use a padded gun case to protect the rifle from scratches or damage. If you live in a humid area, consider using a dehumidifier in your gun safe to prevent rust and corrosion on the steel parts.mossberg plinkster 802

Conclusion: The Perfect Rifle for Beginners, Target Shooters, and Small Game Hunters

In conclusion, the Mossberg International 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo is a top-tier option for a wide range of shooters. Whether you’re new to firearms, a recreational shooter, or a small game hunter, the 802 Plinkster offers exceptional value without compromising on performance. Its combination of affordability, accuracy, ease of use, and durability makes it a standout choice in the world of .22 LR rifles.mossberg plinkster 802

 the Mossberg 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo

While high-end rifles in terms of features or long-range precision, it excels in its intended role—providing an affordable, reliable rifle for target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting. With its factory-installed scope and simple, intuitive design, the Mossberg 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo is a rifle that offers a great experience for shooters of all levels.mossberg plinkster 802.

Mossberg 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo Review: Affordable Accuracy in a Bolt-Action .22LR

If you’re looking for a dependable, accurate, and affordable bolt-action .22 rifle, the Mossberg 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo is an excellent place to start. Whether you’re teaching a first-time shooter, hunting small game, or simply enjoying a day of plinking, this rifle is built to deliver smooth performance at a price that’s hard to beat.

With its included 4x scope, adjustable sights, and rugged synthetic stock, the 802 Plinkster is designed to meet the needs of both beginners and seasoned rimfire shooters alike.

Why Choose the Mossberg 802 Plinkster?

1. Great for Beginners and Young Shooters

The 802 Plinkster offers low recoil, easy operation, and reliable performance—making it one of the best .22 bolt-action rifles for training or introducing new shooters to the sport. The bolt-action system teaches fundamentals while promoting safe and deliberate shooting.

2. Reliable Bolt-Action Design

Unlike semi-automatics that can be finicky with ammo types, the bolt-action system in the 802 Plinkster feeds rounds smoothly and is far less prone to malfunctions. This simplicity makes it a great rifle for consistent and confident shooting.

3. Ready-to-Use Scope Combo

This combo includes a factory-mounted 4x rimfire scope, so you’re ready to shoot right out of the box. Combined with the dovetail receiver, the 802 can also accept other rimfire optics for future upgrades.

4. Accurate Free-Floating Barrel

The 18-inch blued barrel is bore-rifled and free-floating, helping improve accuracy downrange. Combined with the adjustable rifle sights and the included scope, it’s a highly accurate setup for plinking or varmint control.

5. Durable Synthetic Stock

The rifle features a black synthetic stock with a stippled grip and a thick rubber recoil pad. It’s built to withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions while offering a secure, comfortable grip.

Specifications at a Glance

What It’s Best For

• Target shooting and plinking

• Youth training or beginner instruction

• Small game and varmint hunting

• Rimfire enthusiasts looking for bolt-action reliability

Real-World Performance

Users consistently praise the Mossberg 802 Plinkster for its:

• Smooth bolt operation

• Solid out-of-the-box accuracy

• Ease of use with both iron sights and scope

• Lightweight, balanced design

Whether you’re aiming at aluminum cans or paper targets at 50 yards, the rifle performs with impressive consistency for its class.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent price-to-performance ratio

• Very beginner-friendly

• Comes with scope and iron sights

• Durable synthetic construction

• Smooth feeding and low maintenance

Cons:

• Limited customization options

• Scope is basic but functional

• Not designed for high-volume rapid fire

Final Thoughts: Is the Mossberg 802 Plinkster Worth It?

The Mossberg 802 Plinkster Scoped Combo is one of the best entry-level bolt-action .22 rifles on the market. With great reliability, solid accuracy, and a price point under most rimfire competitors, it’s a smart choice for:

• New shooters

• Budget-conscious buyers

• Anyone wanting a dependable .22LR for plinking or hunting

Whether you’re starting your firearm collection or adding a no-frills rimfire to your safe, the 802 Plinkster delivers excellent value with Mossberg’s reputation for reliability behind it.

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