30 years ago I bought a Howa 1500 in 270 Winchester from Service Merchandise, stock & barrel in Realtree Camo. It was on clearance for $185, at the time, it was more than I could afford but I made it happen. After sighting in, it shot clover-leaf 100yd groups and still does to this day. It has taken many whitetail but damn it weighs 9lbs 6oz. This Howa Super Lite in 7mm-08 looks to be a dream come true! Really good videos and stories Ron.
In my short 60+ years of collecting, hunting and reloading I have owners about 50 Howa rifles over the years not including the Vanguards. They are quality rifles at a budget price and very reliable! I bought my dons some Meateaters rifles and they were a good rifle but a bit heavy for non magnums. Randy Newberg must love them too since he hunts with them! I might just have to pick one up! I am a big Tikka, SAKO rifle guy for hunting! They are the most accurate rifle with factory ammo they I have seen with a wider range of factory ammo even though I reloader and have owned hundreds of hunting rifles over the years and traded some because they would not shoot MOA or better! Thanks for taking the time to show us that awesome rifle!
Howa 1500 bolts are some of the best on the market. Extremely basic and easy to take apart and clean. Also, their triggers are probably the best stock trigger on the market. Zero creep and can be adjusted down to any weight you desire while still being safe. There is a reason why many competition shooters start with a Howa 1500 barrelled action.
I've got a few Howas and Vanguards. Don't need any more rifles besides what I have. I have handloaded ammo for every single one except for my 243 Howa that doesn't care if it's a Remington or winchester 100 grain softpoint. I'll poke all three rounds into a single jagged hole. I always give my rifles 15 minutes between shots to retract and cool off with the bolt open. This gives me a true reading from a cold bore, and gives me all the confidence in the world when I am hunting.
Ron I've been using Howa 1500 's since the 1990's my very first was a Barreled action in 223 a true tack driver . I have taken my biggest Buck with my Howa 1500 chambered in 7mm Mag.. these rifles are accurate .
It's not hard to be a howa fan! They make great rifles. Action and bolt lift are pretty good, not fanominal, but still good. For a budget rifle ($500-800 for their base models) I'd take a howa over a savage or ruger of the same price
Howa is a good quality, well priced, reliable rifle. We use them a lot in South Africa. Not picky eaters, the ones ive seen have shot well with different ammo types and loadings. And they have an acceptable trigger
They got that grip angle figured out better than most of the domestic models. Sounds like a great rifle. I dont mind carrying a 10lb rifle around though, as long as it has a chassis
Good review Ron. I completely agree about that 3 position safety feature. Your completly correct about carry a rifle and that darn bolt opening up and catching on things.
Another great Video Ron. Perfect rifle for those of us that were not born with a silver spoon. Your video's make it much easier for those of us to purchase a quality rifle that will work for the hunting we do. Thank you!!
I have the howa carbon stalker in 6.5 Grendel with the same scope on it. Love that gun, for midwest deer hunt that is a great combo for any hunter, the Grendel has minimal recoil as well.
🎉I have a 6.5 Creedmore Howa 1500 with a 26 inch barrel in an MDT Oryx chassis and it is a great rifle. Feeds and extracts perfectly and shoots 1/2 moa all day.
I went Howa Superlite in .308 with 125 grain Accubond reloads this year. Fantastic rifle. I got rid of the rail and went with Talley and a Leupold 3.5-10...so light
@@ziruk-king4466 Fit and finish is similar to Bergara. Ahead of Ruger and behind Tikka. The carbon model comes with a small diameter brake. It works well. I've also shot it with my suppressor, which reduces the recoil about the same. Finally, I've shot it bare barrel and it still feels more pleasant than my Abolt. I've only shot 125, 130, and 150 grain loads; so I don't know how the heavier stuff is going to feel. I've settled on the 130 Barnes as my whitetail load.
@ziruk-king4466 Forgot to give accuracy...48 grains of Varget under the 130 Barnes is comfortably a 1 MOA load, but you have to pace the shots as it heats up pretty quick. I've shot 5 shot groups that ranged from .6 to 1.1 inches while testing different bullet jumps. 35 thou and 50 thou both shot well under an inch. When I get my hands on more bullets, I'm going to do a 20 shot group with 3 minutes between shots. I'm also going to circle back and shoot 48.5 and 49 grains of Varget. Unless I got lucky, this load isn't fine tuned yet.
Fantastic, great timing, I’ve been thinking seriously of getting one of the Howa’s knowing their history as you explained and especially the Weatherby history which I’ve owned and knew that Howa made them and what a fine fit and finish. Your timing is perfect and any hesitation left has left the room, I’m gonna pull the trigger, thanks again for this and all your work/information.
You have to love how no nonsense Ron is. Most influencers, and his is technically an influencer, would dial the rifle in perfect, put a fresh target up, and make it look like they just sat down and started shooting bullseyes. With Ron you get the target he started with before he has it completely zeroed. This is what you can expect yourself if you know how to shoot.
One can read a lot of reviews about firearms, many can sound too good to be true but Ron is spot on with this one. I picked up Davidson's Cerakote version of this little Howa in 6.5 Creedmoor, mounted a VariX3 Leupold 1X5 and she comes in a 5.83 lbs and she shoots. I am not easily impressed but this little rifle impresses me.
I rebarreled my Weatherby Vanguard, which is just a renamed Howa 1500, and turned it into a 6.5 PRC. The accuracy with 156g Berger EOL hunting bullets is incredible.
I’ve owned two howa rifles I bought to build as target guns. One a 24” heavy barrel and one was 26” heavy barrel. Their prices have went up some since then, but what hasn’t these days. Both I bought were just the barreled actions off of Brownells website. Bedded both in B&C medalist stocks (the newer one with adjustable cheek riser). Howa’s are a dream to bed with that flat bottomed action and huge integral recoil lug by the way. I only shot one box of factory ammo through each, and they were both around 3/4” moa with that ammo right out the gate. With match loads you had to really try to shoot a group over 1/2” I mean like having a terrible day lol. One ended up averaging groups around .350”. The 26” barrel averaged 1/4” moa or better with many groups around .100” and slightly less. Forgot both were in 6.5 CM, and I no longer own either rifle but I do miss them. Been thinking hard of picking up a sporter weight barreled action in 7mm08, or maybe even the good old 270 win for new deer rifle.
I love my Howa. I almost bought the superlite 6.5 Grendel Mini-Action version, but ended up buying the barrelled action from Brownells and added a stock. I went with a Boyd's At-One stock and put a scope about the same size.
Mi esposa me regalo uno en navidad, en weatherby pero es el mismo hecho por howa y esta de lujo en 300WinMag y ligero como ninguno, life is good here in Mexico
I just bought a Elevate .308. My neighbor turned me onto them (he also showed me North American Arms deringers that I now daily carry) and after reading all y'all's comments, I think I did alright with my first bolt action. I got the all non painted version cause I want to a Christiansen Arms style paint job 😎
I have the 1500 Mini action in 6.5 Grendel, incredible rifle for the price I paid for it. Prints .5-.75 groups all day, and is a 'Yote smashing wand. CFE 223 and 129 SST's.
I got a Weatherby Vanguard in 30-06 in Feb this year, shortened the barrel to 20" (from 24") and put a Jaki Titanium suppressor on there with a LVPO 1-6x scope. My wife instantly claimed the rifle! Shoots great, the stock on that one is not as light as this but still very handy overall. She loves the 3-position safety as well. So now Im looking for another Howa/Vanguard for myself as well :)
He’s one of the modern outdoor writers that really is reminiscent of Jack O’Connor. Love his style. Keep doing what your doing Ron. Hey I think you should do a fan Q/A sometime, either a livestream or an in-person live video with people to ask questions drink whiskey, smoke cigars around a fire. You are my go-to outdoor RUclipsr. Ok shameless plug to get on your program.
I think all Howas are capable of close to ½MOA with handloads, the only aspect is the COAL of the cartridge that is restricted by the DBM. Please note that the the mounting holes are the same as the Rem 700, so throw away the Pic rail and use two-piece mounts.
The Howa Super Lite makes a *GREAT* stalking gun match to my Bergara HMR sitting and precision range gun. Both 6.5CM. Both stupid accurate. Both silky smooth. Within $100 of each other, too. It's really easy to see why you love the Howa, Ron!
Looks like a great gun! Lightweight rifles can be awesome. I’ve got a Savage 99F topped with a peep sight and front bead that tips the scale at ~5.5 lbs. That gun is surprisingly accurate to shoot free-hand. Love that rifle!
@@Gerald-do9ygThe Savage 99 is an old unique lever gun that isn’t made anymore, but they’re out there on used market. There are many variants available, but the “F” version is the featherweight model. It was chambered in many calibers, but most aren’t popular anymore. There were some chambered in 308, though.
Snagged myself a Howa 1500 mini action in 7.62 x 39mm (with threaded muzzle) for some cheap range shooting but it turned out to be surprisingly accurate out to 200-250 yards. Scrounged up some 123 & 154 grain steel case SP's. Results were positive enough to buy dies and start collecting brass for reloads. Intrigued to persue load development, bullet jump, etc.. *note*: The Howa bore is true to 7.62 x 39mm dimensions (.311"). Bullet selection is limited. NOSLER assured me their projectiles are true to cartridge. Most 7.62x39 bullet manufacturers are .308 - .310". Caveat emptor (buyer beware). If all goes well l may spring for an EC TUNER just to see IF more can be squeezed out.
The Howa shoots amazing. I have one in 223 with a stockys carbon vertical grip stock. 73gr eld handloads are easy and consistent 1/4-1/3MOA any day of the week. Im not sure how the Tikkas shoot, but I can't imagine it shoots significantly better.
I like the pic rail on top. It gives me more options for mounting scopes. A two piece is sometimes 1/4 inch off for some scopes. I want to close my eyes, get comfortable, and open my eyes looking at the crosshairs. I really like a three position safety for hunting. It locks the bolt down.
I picked up a Howa 1500 Mini action in 6.5 Grendel. That really light rifle shoots amazingly hunt. Takes getting used to a light rifle, but well worth it.
I'm mostly an AR guy. I want to build a bolt action next. I've very interested in the Howa 1500 in 300 PRC. I haven't decided on a stock or chassis for it.
Howa mini actions are the some of the best rifles available. I have them in 6.5 grendel, 7.62x39, and 6mm arc. Just a fabulous rifle. All shoot far below 1 MOA> That Grendel is a gem.
They are a solid rifle! Not a fan of the hogue stock that comes on most models, but some models have very good stocks on them besides hogue. Don’t get me wrong they shoot great in a hogue, I just don’t like the feel of those stocks. You can always get the barreled actions from Brownells which is what I did, and then pick out whichever stock you prefer.
@@andrewcleveland Yup, I've been eyeing the barreled actions too. Just never could decide on a stock, but the one on the video might be the ticket. I already have a Sauer 202 in 270WIN, so something lighter and smaller would be a good complement. Wish they had them in 260 REM since I'm already setup for reloading it for my ARMALITE AR10T.
I have a super lite. There were definite inletting issues with the trigger guard. Contacted legacy and they sent me a new stock, as I had a hunt coming up and needed it as a backup rifle. 2nd stock was also inlet poorly, I think probably because it is finished after it is inlet. I fixed the problem by inletting the trigger guard myself with some chisels. I also glass bedded it. The rifle shoots OK with my handloads, but is it not MOA, probably 1.5” on average which is workable. The zipper sounding bolt also annoyed me so I fixed that with some 400grit sandpaper. I really shouldn’t have to do this on a new rifle costing $1000+, but I’m happy enough now that it’s all done, I just wish it shot a smidge better. I’m hoping some more load development and a muzzle brake will help with that. If someone makes a metal trigger guard (Jefferson outdoors??) in the future it will be perfect as a backcountry pack rifle. Also, get the Talley rings.
Howa definitely make a nice rifle. My brother-in-law has a Weatherby Vanguard, which is anything but lightweight in .300WM, but it is a fantastically sweet shooter, and wonderfully accurate. I have seen him make some pretty impressive quick shots on running deer, and drop them where they were. You have to be pretty confident in you weapon, and it's capabilities to pull off shots like the ones he's made. The only downside is the price point on them. They are on the high end of "cheaper" for us average working Joes at around $800-$1300. Worth it if you can afford it, though.
@Nick-wn1xw I think that's a bit uncharitable. Many working class people just don't have the means to be able save for a $1000+ rifle, or any other frivolities for that matter. If someone can scrape together $500 to buy a budget rifle that can accomplish the same accuracy as an expensive one, you won't find any judgement from me.
My next gun will be a Howa 1500 in 22-250. Been eyeing them up for a while, very impressive. I hunt Woodchuck with a friend who demoed his for me, over the summer. Wonderful gun, silk smooth action and that 3 position safety is gold. I don't need a new chuck gun... my old Stevens is a printer at 200 yards at has taken hogs at better than 400 yards. Do I like the Howa, and want a 22-250? Yup. Bullet selection is much nicer for hunting varmints, for the 22-250. Great video, I was sold back in June, though. Haha!
Ron, I just got a Ruger Gen 2 predator in 6 ARC with a hammer forged barrel. Before I shot it I cleaned the barrel and the barrel was full of crud ??? It took about 5 patches to come pretty clean with Hopes. I know they shoot a round or two at the factory but not enough to get the barrel as dirty as it was ?? Just curious if you can figure out where all that crud came from ?? Cutting the chamber or just shooting a box or two at the shop vs factory vs someone bought it and brought it back ????? It shoots great so I’m not wanting to return it, just curious if many new rifles have that much crud in the barrel ??
For reference I’ve put 40 rounds down the barrel and then cleaned, just about 2 patches to come clean? I’ve never cleaned a new gun before shooting it so I don’t have any idea how dirty a new barrel often is ??
I've been looking for a very light weight rifle that was affordable. Your video convinced me to order a Superlite from my local gun emporium in 6.5. Should be in next week.
I have two Howa rifles in .308, a lightweight profile and a heavy barrel. Both shoot incredibly well. Also have a mini action in 7.62x39 which has to be my favorite by far.
I have 3 Howas.270 30/06 .300 ultra mag use them different types of hunting. Never had a problem out of them. 30/06 has 20 deer an 12 hogs .300 has 3 elk and 2 moose and rabid fox😮
Just recently bought this in 6.5cm for my son. Preeeeetty sure Daddy's gonna have to get himself one as well!! The light weight is sooo appreciated! (We were going to climbing some ugly buckthorn covered ridges) And just like you've found...ACCURATE! The ONLY thing... that bugs my psuedo OCD, is the "zip" sound it makes when you're actuating the bolt. For some reason that irks me, a lot. Presumably due to machining marks? Speaking with others on rokslide, soon I'll try lightly/mildly polishing the machining marks on the bolt possibly, with some J-B Bore Bright Bore Finishing Compound and see if that helps the "zip" sound. And this year on my .308, I decided to drop down to 130gr TTSX. And interestingly... I compared the ballistics between a 6.5cm and a .308 Win... both in 130gr, and they energy is very similar on both, and then at 400yds the 6.5cm with it's high B.C. projectiles, overtakes the .308 shooting similar 130gr.
People love to hate on the 6.5 Creedmoor but Hornady knew what they were doing when they made it. Higher BC and, depending on bullet weight, higher sectional density than a 308. What does this all mean…6.5 Creedmoor will generally penetrate further than a 308. It might start off with less velocity and energy, but it carries that velocity and energy better down range. It’s also more mild to shoot, thus making a more accurate/ethical hunter.
@@scotteger6271 after having to dial-in his scope a bit, then observing my son and coaching him a lil on his benchrest holding of the weapon... he literally.. not figuratively... managed to then hit the center red dot out of two bullseyes @ 100yd. I was watching in the spotter at the time too! Talk about stoked! And also important, you can hold onto the safety with two fingers instead and move it over fairly SILENTLY if you practice for a second. This can be important on a hunt.
They come in new colors now…gray, green, tan and walnut. The walnut weighs a little more but not much. 4lb 7oz for the carbon stock models, 5lb 9oz for the walnut.
Just picked up the same rifle from De Leon for $896.78 shipped to my FFL. Going to add the $350 Leupold Creedmor Optic, for a practical, high quality ultra lightweight budget gun.
Splendid rifle. Howa do some great stuff. Still, though...the Mauser M18 remains my favourite among “modern” firearms. Yes, Tikka T3 x is great ( I have one in 8x57), still the Mauser feels better. Seen it in all calibers, all the way up to 300WM and the M18 performs splendidly,
Well the older one gets the more light weight is a thing. One of those on 300 blk would be the bomb for eastern woods. Browning and Winchester have their rifles over there I believe.
The most accurate rifle in my safe is a Howa-made Weatherby Vanguard. While the barrel appears to be free-floated, it actually makes use of a pressure post about two inches from the end of the forearm. According to Weatherby, the design is common to their rifles with barrels made with certain contours.
They brought the Howa out in Australia 30 years or more ago as the CMC “Australia” Mountaineer. I’ve got one in .223 and it’s not a Rem700 of the same era but it doesn’t give much away. A lot cheaper. I have a mind for one of the new carbon lightweight jobs. Maybe I’ll even jump on this Creedmore bandwagon!
We had a light weight Kimber in 6.5CM, but the problem wasn’t with its accuracy. The issue was it was so light it was hard to steady it up. Perfectly accurate enough for hunting in the south east, but don’t expect to target shoot with it.
Target use and hunting are different enough that "steady up" isn't a huge concern. Since I began hunting with 4.75-pound M20 ULA in the late 1980s I've discovered that I can shoot quickly and precisely to at least 450 yards with super light rifles in the field. That's been my longest shot with them. More significantly, I can swing them into action and lay out running coyotes, sometimes doubles. I find light rifles easier to aim steadily offhand than heavy rifles. Big winds compromise this, but it's foolish to shoot offhand in winds anyway.
I bought this rifle. "Davidson's Special" which has brown metal and a different color stock, but the same gun. I ordered the Talley one piece "High" rings for it to replace the picatinny. They are just high enough to give clearance from the bolt to the scope, though the raised metal on the mag ring of Leupold scopes leaves little clearance. After dressed out with scope and sling, and Talley rings, mine weighs in at 6lbs. I replaced the second stage trigger spring to be lighter and that gave me a pretty good trigger. So far, I have loaded 118gr Hammer HHT and have not been able to group well. Still working on load development. Having some feeding issues which I will be asking Howa to resolve. Im hoping after some time investment I end up with a shooter, but I still have a ways to go.
30 years ago I bought a Howa 1500 in 270 Winchester from Service Merchandise, stock & barrel in Realtree Camo. It was on clearance for $185, at the time, it was more than I could afford but I made it happen. After sighting in, it shot clover-leaf 100yd groups and still does to this day. It has taken many whitetail but damn it weighs 9lbs 6oz. This Howa Super Lite in 7mm-08 looks to be a dream come true! Really good videos and stories Ron.
The rifle out lived service merchandise by a long way. 😂
In my short 60+ years of collecting, hunting and reloading I have owners about 50 Howa rifles over the years not including the Vanguards. They are quality rifles at a budget price and very reliable! I bought my dons some Meateaters rifles and they were a good rifle but a bit heavy for non magnums. Randy Newberg must love them too since he hunts with them! I might just have to pick one up! I am a big Tikka, SAKO rifle guy for hunting! They are the most accurate rifle with factory ammo they I have seen with a wider range of factory ammo even though I reloader and have owned hundreds of hunting rifles over the years and traded some because they would not shoot MOA or better! Thanks for taking the time to show us that awesome rifle!
I picked up a new Weatherby Vangaurd in 7mm08 and it’s a great rifle. Howa has never let me down.
I've got a Vanguard in 7mm-08 as well and I love that rifle. It's definitely hard to beat that quality at that price point.
@@B.Simpsonphoto hopefully your will be as accurate as mine. Only thing mine won’t group is 139 grain SST’s. Can’t get it better than 1.25”
Ron, it's fun to see you excited... I don't need or want another rifle but that one has appeal! nice, honest review. good stuff.
I’ve had mine, in 6.5CM, for over a year and I love mine!!! 💪🏼
Howa 1500 bolts are some of the best on the market. Extremely basic and easy to take apart and clean. Also, their triggers are probably the best stock trigger on the market. Zero creep and can be adjusted down to any weight you desire while still being safe. There is a reason why many competition shooters start with a Howa 1500 barrelled action.
I've got a few Howas and Vanguards. Don't need any more rifles besides what I have. I have handloaded ammo for every single one except for my 243 Howa that doesn't care if it's a Remington or winchester 100 grain softpoint.
I'll poke all three rounds into a single jagged hole. I always give my rifles 15 minutes between shots to retract and cool off with the bolt open.
This gives me a true reading from a cold bore, and gives me all the confidence in the world when I am hunting.
Ron I've been using Howa 1500 's since the 1990's my very first was a Barreled action in 223 a true tack driver . I have taken my biggest Buck with my Howa 1500 chambered in 7mm Mag.. these rifles are accurate .
I bought my son a Howa 1500 in 270 Winchester for Christmas. They do make a pretty nice rifle.
Wow Ron. You made me a Howa fan.
It's not hard to be a howa fan! They make great rifles. Action and bolt lift are pretty good, not fanominal, but still good. For a budget rifle ($500-800 for their base models) I'd take a howa over a savage or ruger of the same price
Howa is a good quality, well priced, reliable rifle. We use them a lot in South Africa. Not picky eaters, the ones ive seen have shot well with different ammo types and loadings. And they have an acceptable trigger
They got that grip angle figured out better than most of the domestic models. Sounds like a great rifle. I dont mind carrying a 10lb rifle around though, as long as it has a chassis
Good review Ron. I completely agree about that 3 position safety feature. Your completly correct about carry a rifle and that darn bolt opening up and catching on things.
I had a Vanguard .270 back in the 90's mwde by Howa. It was a sweet shooter. That safety is a huge improvement.
Another great Video Ron. Perfect rifle for those of us that were not born with a silver spoon. Your video's make it much easier for those of us to purchase a quality rifle that will work for the hunting we do. Thank you!!
Most accurate out of the box rifle I’ve ever shot and that’s a lot in the last 40 years
They are fine fine rifle
Howa rifles are very popular down here in New Zealand. The first centerfire rifle I had was a 1500 in .308. Good shooter
I have the howa carbon stalker in 6.5 Grendel with the same scope on it. Love that gun, for midwest deer hunt that is a great combo for any hunter, the Grendel has minimal recoil as well.
Took my first whitetail with my new Super Lite in 6.5. What a delight carrying this light and handy rifle in the deer woods, love it.
🎉I have a 6.5 Creedmore Howa 1500 with a 26 inch barrel in an MDT Oryx chassis and it is a great rifle. Feeds and extracts perfectly and shoots 1/2 moa all day.
I'm with ya on the 3 position safety...
I have 2 Howa's. One in .243 as well as 6.5 Creedmoor and have had a lot of great success with both.
I went Howa Superlite in .308 with 125 grain Accubond reloads this year. Fantastic rifle. I got rid of the rail and went with Talley and a Leupold 3.5-10...so light
How does your 308 shoot? How is the recoil? Did you put a muzzle break. Any issues with action barrel not fitting the stock well? Wyoming guy
@@ziruk-king4466 Fit and finish is similar to Bergara. Ahead of Ruger and behind Tikka.
The carbon model comes with a small diameter brake. It works well. I've also shot it with my suppressor, which reduces the recoil about the same. Finally, I've shot it bare barrel and it still feels more pleasant than my Abolt.
I've only shot 125, 130, and 150 grain loads; so I don't know how the heavier stuff is going to feel. I've settled on the 130 Barnes as my whitetail load.
@ziruk-king4466 Forgot to give accuracy...48 grains of Varget under the 130 Barnes is comfortably a 1 MOA load, but you have to pace the shots as it heats up pretty quick. I've shot 5 shot groups that ranged from .6 to 1.1 inches while testing different bullet jumps. 35 thou and 50 thou both shot well under an inch. When I get my hands on more bullets, I'm going to do a 20 shot group with 3 minutes between shots. I'm also going to circle back and shoot 48.5 and 49 grains of Varget. Unless I got lucky, this load isn't fine tuned yet.
@@diggernash1 thanks for info
Great content as always Mr. Spomer. I will definitely be looking at those
I live in reno! Its nice to see such nice rifles coming out of this big little city. ❤
Howa rifles are brilliant.....and VERY reasonably priced too, even here in NZ
Fantastic, great timing, I’ve been thinking seriously of getting one of the Howa’s knowing their history as you explained and especially the Weatherby history which I’ve owned and knew that Howa made them and what a fine fit and finish. Your timing is perfect and any hesitation left has left the room, I’m gonna pull the trigger, thanks again for this and all your work/information.
I really like the Howas. Only wish they came in stainless. The mini action in stainless 6.5 Grendel would be awesome.
They do have one with a wood stock and a stainless barrel over at Gun Broker and it comes that way from the factory.
I have one , they are a fantastic Rifle 💯Great Video Ron thanks💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥
I've been looking at one of those... Awesome vid! Thanks.
I bought a 1500 chambered in .300 PRC earlier this year. Nothing but good things to say about the feel, function, and accuracy.
You have to love how no nonsense Ron is. Most influencers, and his is technically an influencer, would dial the rifle in perfect, put a fresh target up, and make it look like they just sat down and started shooting bullseyes. With Ron you get the target he started with before he has it completely zeroed. This is what you can expect yourself if you know how to shoot.
Thank You for the great job you are doing !
Yeah, I like Howa's too. I think they have just about the best out of the box trigger, compared to anything I've used.
the color starting show where you are , gets me pumped for deer season here in tx
One can read a lot of reviews about firearms, many can sound too good to be true but Ron is spot on with this one. I picked up Davidson's Cerakote version of this little Howa in 6.5 Creedmoor, mounted a VariX3 Leupold 1X5 and she comes in a 5.83 lbs and she shoots. I am not easily impressed but this little rifle impresses me.
Howa makes a great factory rifle in my opinion. Love em.. 😁🤓
My brother has one in 30-06. Very smooth feeding, V E R Y smoooooth. Shoots very accurately as well.
I rebarreled my Weatherby Vanguard, which is just a renamed Howa 1500, and turned it into a 6.5 PRC. The accuracy with 156g Berger EOL hunting bullets is incredible.
Nice! 156gr Berger..!
Do you know what the twist is on the barrel? Howard or Vanguard Barrel?
I have 2 HOWA's ... Love them !!!!
Howa is no slouch. I've got 2 minis and 2 Weatherby Vanguards and they are all pretty sweet shooters.
I just recently picked up a Howa 1500 in 6.5cm with a heavy barrel. Absolutely love that dam thing.
I’ve owned two howa rifles I bought to build as target guns. One a 24” heavy barrel and one was 26” heavy barrel. Their prices have went up some since then, but what hasn’t these days. Both I bought were just the barreled actions off of Brownells website. Bedded both in B&C medalist stocks (the newer one with adjustable cheek riser). Howa’s are a dream to bed with that flat bottomed action and huge integral recoil lug by the way. I only shot one box of factory ammo through each, and they were both around 3/4” moa with that ammo right out the gate. With match loads you had to really try to shoot a group over 1/2” I mean like having a terrible day lol. One ended up averaging groups around .350”. The 26” barrel averaged 1/4” moa or better with many groups around .100” and slightly less. Forgot both were in 6.5 CM, and I no longer own either rifle but I do miss them. Been thinking hard of picking up a sporter weight barreled action in 7mm08, or maybe even the good old 270 win for new deer rifle.
That's a keeper Ron
I love my Howa. I almost bought the superlite 6.5 Grendel Mini-Action version, but ended up buying the barrelled action from Brownells and added a stock. I went with a Boyd's At-One stock and put a scope about the same size.
I restocked 2 riflies with Boyds and I am very pleased with them I opted for laminated thumbholes and they are gorgeous and shoot well.
Nice looking rifle
Thanks buddy -- one shot guy--i get close in timber love to track. I don't have to worry about heated barrel. This might be the best deal out there
Mi esposa me regalo uno en navidad, en weatherby pero es el mismo hecho por howa y esta de lujo en 300WinMag y ligero como ninguno, life is good here in Mexico
I just bought a Elevate .308. My neighbor turned me onto them (he also showed me North American Arms deringers that I now daily carry) and after reading all y'all's comments, I think I did alright with my first bolt action. I got the all non painted version cause I want to a Christiansen Arms style paint job 😎
I have the 1500 Mini action in 6.5 Grendel, incredible rifle for the price I paid for it. Prints .5-.75 groups all day, and is a 'Yote smashing wand. CFE 223 and 129 SST's.
Ah! Ron! I was waiting to see that group up close! 😮
Same as the weatherby vanguard - very accurate. I like Kimber for a light rifle but this is good to know about.
Reminders me of the Remington model 7.
One of my favorite
I got a Weatherby Vanguard in 30-06 in Feb this year, shortened the barrel to 20" (from 24") and put a Jaki Titanium suppressor on there with a LVPO 1-6x scope. My wife instantly claimed the rifle! Shoots great, the stock on that one is not as light as this but still very handy overall. She loves the 3-position safety as well. So now Im looking for another Howa/Vanguard for myself as well :)
Thanks agian for another awesome review Ron.
Great episode as always! I have an older Howa 1500 in .223 that is a fantastic shooter. Great rifles.
He’s one of the modern outdoor writers that really is reminiscent of Jack O’Connor. Love his style. Keep doing what your doing Ron. Hey I think you should do a fan Q/A sometime, either a livestream or an in-person live video with people to ask questions drink whiskey, smoke cigars around a fire. You are my go-to outdoor RUclipsr. Ok shameless plug to get on your program.
I think all Howas are capable of close to ½MOA with handloads, the only aspect is the COAL of the cartridge that is restricted by the DBM. Please note that the the mounting holes are the same as the Rem 700, so throw away the Pic rail and use two-piece mounts.
Agreed. Talley makes a two-piece mount for the SuperLite.
I agree a locking bolt is a must for Me
The Howa Super Lite makes a *GREAT* stalking gun match to my Bergara HMR sitting and precision range gun. Both 6.5CM. Both stupid accurate. Both silky smooth. Within $100 of each other, too. It's really easy to see why you love the Howa, Ron!
Looks like a great gun! Lightweight rifles can be awesome. I’ve got a Savage 99F topped with a peep sight and front bead that tips the scale at ~5.5 lbs. That gun is surprisingly accurate to shoot free-hand. Love that rifle!
Say friend, that Savage sounds great! What caliber and, is it factory or custom? Blsgs, gg
@@Gerald-do9ygThe Savage 99 is an old unique lever gun that isn’t made anymore, but they’re out there on used market. There are many variants available, but the “F” version is the featherweight model. It was chambered in many calibers, but most aren’t popular anymore. There were some chambered in 308, though.
they made em in .300 Savage .250-3000 Savage .243 .308 and an old friend I have has one in .284. that one has to be rare.@@Gerald-do9yg
The 6.5 Grendel and the 7.62x39 in their Mini Action A great pair for the woods and the open pasture land
I have a Howa 1500 HCR in 6.5CM and it is an extremely accurate rifle across all loads.
They make great rifles. I would have a Howa over a Tikka T3X every time. I have had 2 of them , they were great rifles..
Snagged myself a Howa 1500 mini action in 7.62 x 39mm (with threaded muzzle) for some cheap range shooting but it turned out to be surprisingly accurate out to 200-250 yards. Scrounged up some 123 & 154 grain steel case SP's. Results were positive enough to buy dies and start collecting brass for reloads. Intrigued to persue load development, bullet jump, etc..
*note*: The Howa bore is true to 7.62 x 39mm dimensions (.311"). Bullet selection is limited. NOSLER assured me their projectiles are true to cartridge. Most 7.62x39 bullet manufacturers are .308 - .310". Caveat emptor (buyer beware).
If all goes well l may spring for an EC TUNER just to see IF more can be squeezed out.
Please update if you wind up getting some impressive results. I’ve been super curious about this for a while now
The Howa shoots amazing. I have one in 223 with a stockys carbon vertical grip stock. 73gr eld handloads are easy and consistent 1/4-1/3MOA any day of the week. Im not sure how the Tikkas shoot, but I can't imagine it shoots significantly better.
Thank You ...
I like the pic rail on top. It gives me more options for mounting scopes. A two piece is sometimes 1/4 inch off for some scopes. I want to close my eyes, get comfortable, and open my eyes looking at the crosshairs. I really like a three position safety for hunting. It locks the bolt down.
I love my Howa mini-action 6.5 Grendel. I had to take a bit off of the coil spring to get the trigger pull below four pounds.
I have a6.5 but feel there are better calibers for deer and similar game, personally I prefer 7-08 or 6.5x55
I picked up a Howa 1500 Mini action in 6.5 Grendel. That really light rifle shoots amazingly hunt. Takes getting used to a light rifle, but well worth it.
I'm mostly an AR guy. I want to build a bolt action next. I've very interested in the Howa 1500 in 300 PRC. I haven't decided on a stock or chassis for it.
Nice group Ron!
I have a Howa and absolutely love mine.
Great video, Ron. I have field test rifle #1 of this rifle. My results and impressions are similar to yours.
Howa mini actions are the some of the best rifles available. I have them in 6.5 grendel, 7.62x39, and 6mm arc. Just a fabulous rifle. All shoot far below 1 MOA>
That Grendel is a gem.
I've been having my eye on HOWA rifles for years, you've proved my suspensions on the good quality was right 👍
They are a solid rifle! Not a fan of the hogue stock that comes on most models, but some models have very good stocks on them besides hogue. Don’t get me wrong they shoot great in a hogue, I just don’t like the feel of those stocks. You can always get the barreled actions from Brownells which is what I did, and then pick out whichever stock you prefer.
@@andrewcleveland Yup, I've been eyeing the barreled actions too. Just never could decide on a stock, but the one on the video might be the ticket. I already have a Sauer 202 in 270WIN, so something lighter and smaller would be a good complement. Wish they had them in 260 REM since I'm already setup for reloading it for my ARMALITE AR10T.
@@Oldhogleg 260 in that rifle would be very nice too.
I have a 25/06 Weatherby/ Howa and that thing hasnt found any ammo it doesnt like. Very nice rifle.
I have a super lite. There were definite inletting issues with the trigger guard. Contacted legacy and they sent me a new stock, as I had a hunt coming up and needed it as a backup rifle. 2nd stock was also inlet poorly, I think probably because it is finished after it is inlet. I fixed the problem by inletting the trigger guard myself with some chisels. I also glass bedded it.
The rifle shoots OK with my handloads, but is it not MOA, probably 1.5” on average which is workable. The zipper sounding bolt also annoyed me so I fixed that with some 400grit sandpaper.
I really shouldn’t have to do this on a new rifle costing $1000+, but I’m happy enough now that it’s all done, I just wish it shot a smidge better. I’m hoping some more load development and a muzzle brake will help with that.
If someone makes a metal trigger guard (Jefferson outdoors??) in the future it will be perfect as a backcountry pack rifle. Also, get the Talley rings.
Howa definitely make a nice rifle. My brother-in-law has a Weatherby Vanguard, which is anything but lightweight in .300WM, but it is a fantastically sweet shooter, and wonderfully accurate. I have seen him make some pretty impressive quick shots on running deer, and drop them where they were. You have to be pretty confident in you weapon, and it's capabilities to pull off shots like the ones he's made. The only downside is the price point on them. They are on the high end of "cheaper" for us average working Joes at around $800-$1300. Worth it if you can afford it, though.
@Nick-wn1xw I think that's a bit uncharitable. Many working class people just don't have the means to be able save for a $1000+ rifle, or any other frivolities for that matter. If someone can scrape together $500 to buy a budget rifle that can accomplish the same accuracy as an expensive one, you won't find any judgement from me.
My next gun will be a Howa 1500 in 22-250. Been eyeing them up for a while, very impressive.
I hunt Woodchuck with a friend who demoed his for me, over the summer. Wonderful gun, silk smooth action and that 3 position safety is gold.
I don't need a new chuck gun... my old Stevens is a printer at 200 yards at has taken hogs at better than 400 yards.
Do I like the Howa, and want a 22-250? Yup. Bullet selection is much nicer for hunting varmints, for the 22-250. Great video, I was sold back in June, though. Haha!
I got the mosberg 1500 in 243, it’s a Howa. Accuracy was not good with factory ammo, handholds got 1 MOA, got that rifle about 35 years ago.
Ron, I just got a Ruger Gen 2 predator in 6 ARC with a hammer forged barrel. Before I shot it I cleaned the barrel and the barrel was full of crud ??? It took about 5 patches to come pretty clean with Hopes. I know they shoot a round or two at the factory but not enough to get the barrel as dirty as it was ?? Just curious if you can figure out where all that crud came from ?? Cutting the chamber or just shooting a box or two at the shop vs factory vs someone bought it and brought it back ????? It shoots great so I’m not wanting to return it, just curious if many new rifles have that much crud in the barrel ??
For reference I’ve put 40 rounds down the barrel and then cleaned, just about 2 patches to come clean? I’ve never cleaned a new gun before shooting it so I don’t have any idea how dirty a new barrel often is ??
I've been looking for a very light weight rifle that was affordable. Your video convinced me to order a Superlite from my local gun emporium in 6.5. Should be in next week.
I have two Howa rifles in .308, a lightweight profile and a heavy barrel. Both shoot incredibly well. Also have a mini action in 7.62x39 which has to be my favorite by far.
I saw one at the show in grendal still not sure on that caliber ?
I got one in 6mm arc backordered right now.@@kencleg7721
I bought one 5 years ago when no one knew. Paid less than. 350 Dollars; Great rifle. Should have bought 10. Thanks. Mine is 223.
I own a 7mm rem mag howa for more than 20 years. Solid performance. I also have a 223 great wee shooter. I think old howas were made sako tooling.
I have 3 Howas.270 30/06 .300 ultra mag use them different types of hunting. Never had a problem out of them. 30/06 has 20 deer an 12 hogs .300 has 3 elk and 2 moose and rabid fox😮
Just recently bought this in 6.5cm for my son. Preeeeetty sure Daddy's gonna have to get himself one as well!! The light weight is sooo appreciated! (We were going to climbing some ugly buckthorn covered ridges) And just like you've found...ACCURATE! The ONLY thing... that bugs my psuedo OCD, is the "zip" sound it makes when you're actuating the bolt. For some reason that irks me, a lot. Presumably due to machining marks? Speaking with others on rokslide, soon I'll try lightly/mildly polishing the machining marks on the bolt possibly, with some J-B Bore Bright Bore Finishing Compound and see if that helps the "zip" sound. And this year on my .308, I decided to drop down to 130gr TTSX. And interestingly... I compared the ballistics between a 6.5cm and a .308 Win... both in 130gr, and they energy is very similar on both, and then at 400yds the 6.5cm with it's high B.C. projectiles, overtakes the .308 shooting similar 130gr.
People love to hate on the 6.5 Creedmoor but Hornady knew what they were doing when they made it. Higher BC and, depending on bullet weight, higher sectional density than a 308. What does this all mean…6.5 Creedmoor will generally penetrate further than a 308. It might start off with less velocity and energy, but it carries that velocity and energy better down range. It’s also more mild to shoot, thus making a more accurate/ethical hunter.
@@scotteger6271 after having to dial-in his scope a bit, then observing my son and coaching him a lil on his benchrest holding of the weapon... he literally.. not figuratively... managed to then hit the center red dot out of two bullseyes @ 100yd. I was watching in the spotter at the time too! Talk about stoked!
And also important, you can hold onto the safety with two fingers instead and move it over fairly SILENTLY if you practice for a second. This can be important on a hunt.
Very impressive grouping, I'm impressed. Thinking about purchasing this whole unit but without that camo patern. Thanks Ron for the information 👍🏻
I don’t believe this version comes with a plain stock. You can buy the plain stock from stocky’s then buy the barreled action from brownells.
@@chadperry4021 Thank you Sir for the information.
So Brownells carrys the Barrel and action.
@@josephcollette2200 yes, loads of cartridges to choose from. I’m going to build a 6 arc after Christmas.
@@chadperry4021The 6 ARC is an amazing new cartridge...Enjoy
They come in new colors now…gray, green, tan and walnut. The walnut weighs a little more but not much. 4lb 7oz for the carbon stock models, 5lb 9oz for the walnut.
Howa also coming out with a much needed 7.62x39 bolt gun.
Thanks for the 1st impressions. Cheers and happy hunting.
Just picked up the same rifle from De Leon for $896.78 shipped to my FFL. Going to add the $350 Leupold Creedmor Optic, for a practical, high quality ultra lightweight budget gun.
Howa, need to look, I am thinking in the near future to get a rifle, and I like the .30 caliber.
Splendid rifle. Howa do some great stuff. Still, though...the Mauser M18 remains my favourite among “modern” firearms. Yes, Tikka T3 x is great ( I have one in 8x57), still the Mauser feels better. Seen it in all calibers, all the way up to 300WM and the M18 performs splendidly,
Well the older one gets the more light weight is a thing. One of those on 300 blk would be the bomb for eastern woods. Browning and Winchester have their rifles over there I believe.
For whatever reason Howa hasn’t really showed the 300 BLK any love. They do make the mini action in 223, 6 ARC, 6.5 Grendel 350 legend and 7.62x39.
I've been toying with the idea of getting a Howa 1500 in 6mm Arc for some time now.
The most accurate rifle in my safe is a Howa-made Weatherby Vanguard. While the barrel appears to be free-floated, it actually makes use of a pressure post about two inches from the end of the forearm. According to Weatherby, the design is common to their rifles with barrels made with certain contours.
They brought the Howa out in Australia 30 years or more ago as the CMC “Australia” Mountaineer. I’ve got one in .223 and it’s not a Rem700 of the same era but it doesn’t give much away. A lot cheaper. I have a mind for one of the new carbon lightweight jobs. Maybe I’ll even jump on this Creedmore bandwagon!
We had a light weight Kimber in 6.5CM, but the problem wasn’t with its accuracy. The issue was it was so light it was hard to steady it up. Perfectly accurate enough for hunting in the south east, but don’t expect to target shoot with it.
Target use and hunting are different enough that "steady up" isn't a huge concern. Since I began hunting with 4.75-pound M20 ULA in the late 1980s I've discovered that I can shoot quickly and precisely to at least 450 yards with super light rifles in the field. That's been my longest shot with them. More significantly, I can swing them into action and lay out running coyotes, sometimes doubles. I find light rifles easier to aim steadily offhand than heavy rifles. Big winds compromise this, but it's foolish to shoot offhand in winds anyway.
I bought this rifle. "Davidson's Special" which has brown metal and a different color stock, but the same gun. I ordered the Talley one piece "High" rings for it to replace the picatinny. They are just high enough to give clearance from the bolt to the scope, though the raised metal on the mag ring of Leupold scopes leaves little clearance. After dressed out with scope and sling, and Talley rings, mine weighs in at 6lbs. I replaced the second stage trigger spring to be lighter and that gave me a pretty good trigger. So far, I have loaded 118gr Hammer HHT and have not been able to group well. Still working on load development. Having some feeding issues which I will be asking Howa to resolve. Im hoping after some time investment I end up with a shooter, but I still have a ways to go.