Description
The sun is just a sliver on the horizon, and the Missouri timber is dead quiet. You’ve been on the ridge since before first light, and the buck you’ve been watching all season is finally moving into range. When the moment of truth comes, you need a rifle that’s as ready as you are—a system that’s already dialed in, rugged enough for the Ozark backcountry, and capable of making a clean, ethical shot at distance. That’s where a purpose-built package rifle shines.
The Howa Hogue Kryptek AB Cerakote Package .243 Winchester 20″ Lightweight Barrel Austrian Brown Cerakote Finish Synthetic Stock Kryptek Highlander Camouflage Finish With Gameking 4-16x44mm Riflescope is a complete, out-of-the-box hunting solution. It combines Howa’s renowned 1500 barreled action with a premium Hogue OverMolded stock in Kryptek Highlander camo, a durable Austrian Brown Cerakote finish on the metal, and a mounted Gameking 4-16x44mm scope—all for a total package price of $740.43. This rig is built for the hunter who wants to hit the field without the hassle of piecing together components and zeroing optics.
Key Features
Let’s break down what you’re getting. The heart is the Howa 1500 action, known for its smooth bolt operation and crisp, adjustable trigger. It’s mated to a 20-inch lightweight contour barrel chambered in the flat-shooting .243 Winchester. This caliber is a versatile performer for medium game like whitetail and coyote, offering manageable recoil for extended practice sessions. The barrel is treated with a tough Austrian Brown Cerakote finish, which provides superior corrosion resistance compared to traditional bluing—a real asset during damp Missouri falls or in a dusty blind.
The barreled action drops into a Hogue OverMolded stock with a full Kryptek Highlander camouflage wrap. The stock’s textured, rubberized grip panels ensure a solid hold in all weather conditions, and its ergonomic design promotes a natural point of aim. The integrated swivel studs are ready for your sling and bipod. The package is topped with a Simmons 4-16x44mm Gameking riflescope, a model known for its clear optics and reliable adjustments. The scope comes mounted and bore-sighted, meaning you can head to the range for final zeroing with confidence. It’s a setup that fits out of the box and requires no gunsmithing to get field-ready.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .243 Winchester |
| Barrel Length | 20″ Lightweight Contour |
| Overall Length | Approx. 40.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs (scoped) |
| Stock | Hogue OverMolded Synthetic, Kryptek Highlander |
| Metal Finish | Austrian Brown Cerakote |
| Optics | Simmons 4-16x44mm Gameking Riflescope |
Pros & Cons
Pros: The primary advantage is the complete, ready-to-hunt package. The Cerakote and synthetic stock make for an incredibly low-maintenance and weather-resistant tool. The .243 Win caliber offers excellent accuracy with light recoil. The value proposition is strong—purchasing these components separately would cost significantly more.
Cons: The lightweight barrel can heat up during sustained fire, affecting point of impact—but that’s not a typical hunting scenario. The 20-inch barrel sacrifices a small amount of velocity compared to a 24-inch model, though it makes the rifle more maneuverable in thick cover. The included scope is a solid starter, but serious long-range hunters may eventually upgrade to a higher-tier optic like a Vortex Diamondback or Leupold VX-Freedom.
Who This Rifle Is For
This package is ideal for the new hunter seeking a dependable first rifle, or the seasoned hunter who wants a dedicated, no-fuss rig for specific terrain. It’s perfect for stalk hunting in the Mark Twain National Forest or sitting in a box stand over a bean field. If your priority is grabbing a reliable, accurate, and camouflaged system and getting into the woods without a multi-week assembly and sight-in process, this Howa package answers the call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the scope already mounted and bore-sighted?
A: Yes. The Simmons Gameking scope comes mounted on the receiver using a base and rings. It is factory bore-sighted, meaning it should be on paper at 100 yards. You will need to perform a final zeroing at the range to confirm and adjust for your specific ammunition.
Q: What is the magazine capacity?
A: The Howa 1500 action in this configuration uses a detachable box magazine with a standard capacity of 5 rounds. This provides ample capacity for hunting while keeping the profile sleek.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for a muzzle device?
A: No, this specific package features a standard crowned muzzle. It is not threaded for a muzzle brake or suppressor. For hunters who prioritize a compact, lightweight carry over added muzzle device compatibility, this is an acceptable trade-off.
Look, when you’re tracking game or settling into your stand, your focus should be on the hunt, not on your equipment. This Howa Hogue package delivers a proven action, a resilient finish, effective camouflage, and a usable optic in one coordinated system. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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