Howa Gameking Combo Package .308 Rifle & Scope

Description

I was in the market for a solid, no-fuss hunting rifle that wouldn’t require a second mortgage. Something I could grab, zero, and trust for everything from Missouri whitetail to a western plains trip. That’s exactly the niche the Howa Gameking Combo Package 308 22″ Barrel, With 3-10×44 Scope fills. It’s a complete, ready-to-hunt bolt-action rifle system built on the proven Howa 1500 action, paired with a Nikko Stirling Gameking scope, all for a price that makes sense.

Here’s the thing—this isn’t a project. It’s a solution. The rifle and scope are mounted and bore-sighted from the factory, so it’s genuinely drop-in ready. I’ve put a couple hundred rounds of various .308 loads through this setup, and the consistency of the Howa action is what you’d expect: smooth, reliable, and accurate. The 22-inch barrel gives you a great balance of velocity and maneuverability in a blind or timber, and the HACT two-stage trigger is one of the best out-of-the-box triggers you’ll find on a package rifle. The whole package weighs in at a very manageable 8.6 pounds scoped, which is easy to carry all day.

The included Nikko Stirling 3-10×44 scope is the real value-add here. It’s not a throw-in piece of glass; it’s a legitimate hunting scope with a 30mm tube, fully multi-coated lenses, and an illuminated Mil-Dot reticle. For dawn or dusk shots in low light, that illuminated center dot is a genuine advantage. The magnification range is the sweet spot for most North American game—3x for close, quick shots in thick cover and 10x for reaching out across a bean field or canyon. The scope mounts directly to the Howa’s integral 0 MOA Picatinny rail, a feature usually found on more expensive rifles.

Howa Gameking Combo Package Specs

Specification	Detail
Caliber	.308 Winchester
Barrel Length	22 Inches
Action	Howa 1500 Bolt Action
Scope	Nikko Stirling Gameking 3-10×44 Illuminated
Overall Weight (Scoped)	Approx. 8.6 lbs
Stock	Black Synthetic with Pillar Bedding

What I like: The total value for $551.77. is tough to beat. You get a sub-MOA capable rifle, a usable illuminated scope, and mounts for less than many bare rifles cost. The trigger is excellent, and the action is buttery smooth. The synthetic stock is durable and includes pillar bedding for consistent accuracy. It’s a system that fits out of the box and works.

What to consider: The stock is a basic, no-frills synthetic. It gets the job done but isn’t the most ergonomic. The scope, while good, isn’t a top-tier Nightforce or Leupold—but for the price, it’s more than adequate. As with any firearm, a final zero-check with your chosen ammunition is mandatory.

So who is this for? It’s perfect for the new hunter looking for a single, versatile rifle that’s ready to go. It’s for the seasoned hunter who wants a reliable, accurate backup or truck gun without the custom shop price tag. It’s also an ideal platform for a beginner long-range shooter wanting to learn the fundamentals of the .308 cartridge. The rifle itself is compatible with a huge aftermarket, including stocks from brands like Bell & Carlson and MDT, should you ever want to upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the scope already mounted and zeroed?

A: Yes, the scope is mounted and bore-sighted at the factory. This means it should be on paper at 100 yards right away, but you must fire it and complete the zeroing process yourself with your chosen ammunition for precise accuracy.

Q: What type of rings/base does it use?

A: The Howa 1500 action comes with an integral 0 MOA Picatinny rail machined right into the receiver. The package includes high-quality, aluminum 1-inch rings to attach the Nikko Stirling scope to this rail.

Q: Can I use other .308 ammunition besides 150 grain?

A: Absolutely. The .308 Winchester chambering handles a wide range of bullet weights, typically from 150 to 180 grains for hunting. The 1:10 twist rate of the 22-inch barrel stabilizes most common hunting bullets effectively. Always test different brands and loads to see what your specific rifle shoots best.

This Howa Gameking Combo is a straightforward, high-value tool that removes the guesswork from building a hunting rig. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for the firearm. If you need a capable .308 that’s ready for the season, this package deserves a hard look.