Description
Let’s be honest—shopping for a complete, capable rifle and scope package can be a hassle. You’re piecing together components, worrying about compatibility, and the price tag climbs fast. I’ve been there. That’s why the Howa/Hogue GameKing Scope Package .308 Winchester 20″ Heavy Barrel Blue Finish Green Hogue Stock 5rds With NS GameKing 4-16x44AO Riflescope is such a compelling solution. It’s a ready-to-hunt, out-of-the-box system built around the renowned Howa 1500 action, paired with a solid Nikko Stirling scope, all for a price that’s tough to beat.
Here’s the thing: this isn’t just a rifle with a random scope thrown in. It’s a thoughtfully assembled package where the components are chosen to work together. The heart is the Howa 1500 action, which I’ve found to be one of the smoothest and most reliable bolt actions in its price class. It’s a true workhorse. The 20-inch heavy barrel in .308 Winchester gives you a great balance of velocity and maneuverability, especially in a deer blind or when navigating thick Missouri timber. The weight comes in at a manageable 8.5 lbs unscoped, which helps steady your aim without being a burden on a long walk.
Key Features That Matter
The Hogue OverMolded stock is a standout. It’s not just green for looks—the rubber-over-molded design provides a seriously grippy texture, even when wet. I’ve put rounds through this in a light drizzle, and the secure feel inspires confidence. The stock also has a full aluminum bedding block system. What does that mean for you? It means the action is bedded rigidly and consistently, which is a huge factor in achieving and maintaining accuracy. No gunsmithing required; it’s drop-in ready and built to last.
Then there’s the Nikko Stirling GameKing 4-16x44AO scope. With a 30mm tube and adjustable objective, it’s a step above the basic scopes often bundled with packages. The 4-16x magnification range is incredibly versatile. You can dial it down to 4x for close, quick shots in dense cover, or crank it up to 16x for precise shot placement at longer distances on a powerline or field edge. The included Nikko Stirling mounts are solid, and the whole package ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for your local FFL transfer.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .308 Winchester |
| Barrel | 20″ Heavy Barrel, Blue Finish |
| Action | Howa 1500 Bolt Action |
| Stock | Hogue OverMolded Green, Full Bedding Block |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds (Detachable Box Magazine) |
| Scope | Nikko Stirling GameKing 4-16x44AO, 30mm Tube |
Pros & Cons: My Take
Pros: The value is undeniable at $638.06. You’re getting a proven rifle, a quality stock that enhances performance, and a legitimately useful scope. The .308 Winchester chambering is perfect for Missouri whitetail, hog, or even elk out west, with ammo that’s widely available. The heavy barrel mitigates heat and aids accuracy for those longer range sessions or if you want to try your hand at some precision shooting.
Cons: The 20-inch barrel will sacrifice a bit of muzzle velocity compared to a 24-inch model, but for most hunting scenarios under 300 yards, the difference is negligible. The package is optics-ready, but as with any bundled scope, the true enthusiast may eventually want to upgrade to a higher-tier model—though this Nikko Stirling is a fantastic starting point.
Who This Package Is For
This is the ideal first serious hunting rifle for a new shooter, or a perfect “grab and go” rig for the seasoned hunter who wants a dedicated, no-fuss tool. It’s for the Missouri hunter who doesn’t want to tinker—they want to sight it in, confirm the zero, and have absolute faith in the woods. It’s also a fantastic platform for someone wanting to get into mid-range target shooting without breaking the bank on a custom build.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the scope already mounted and bore-sighted?
A: The scope is mounted in the included rings, but it is not bore-sighted. You will need to properly sight-in the rifle at the range before hunting or precision shooting. This is standard for any new rifle/scope combo.
Q: What type of rings/mounts are included?
A: The package includes Nikko Stirling 1-inch medium-height rings designed for the 30mm tube of the GameKing scope. They are a solid, dependable set. For ultimate stability, some users choose to upgrade to a one-piece Picatinny rail base, which is widely available from brands like EGW or Warne, and then use their preferred rings.
Q: Can I use other .308 ammo brands besides what’s listed?
A: Absolutely. The Howa 1500 action has a reputation for handling a wide variety of ammunition reliably. As with any rifle, you’ll want to test a few different brands and bullet weights (like common 150gr, 165gr, or 180gr loads) to see which one your particular barrel prefers for the best accuracy.
If you’re looking for a complete, field-ready hunting system that delivers proven performance without the guesswork or hidden costs, this Howa package is a standout choice. See the full details and availability at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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