Description
The Howa HS PRECISION 6.5 Creedmoor 22″ Barrel GRAY Stock, Black Splatter is a factory-built, precision-oriented bolt-action rifle. It combines Howa’s reliable 1500 barreled action with a rigid HS Precision stock, chambered in the popular 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge, offering a ready-to-shoot package for hunters and target shooters seeking performance without a custom shop price tag. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Key Features
- HS Precision Stock: The gray fiberglass-reinforced stock with black splatter finish provides a stable, rigid platform that’s more consistent than basic polymer, free-floating the barrel for better accuracy.
- Howa 1500 Action: Known for its smooth operation and strength, this is the same proven action used in Weatherby Vanguard rifles, offering reliable performance shot after shot.
- 6.5 Creedmoor Chambering: This modern cartridge delivers excellent long-range ballistics with manageable recoil, making it a top choice for both medium game hunting and precision target shooting.
- 22″ Heavy Barrel: The shorter, heavy-contour barrel offers a good balance of velocity and maneuverability, ideal for hunting from a blind or shooting from a bipod.
- Value Package: At $814.97, this rifle undercuts many competitors by hundreds while still including a premium-style stock—that’s the definition of bang-for-buck.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 6.5 Creedmoor |
| Barrel Length | 22 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 8.5 lbs |
| Action | Bolt Action |
| Magazine Capacity | Detachable Box Magazine (Capacity varies by model, typically 5+1) |
The rifle features a matte black finish on the metalwork, contrasting with the distinctive gray and black stock. The 22″ barrel is a practical choice—long enough for the 6.5 Creedmoor to reach efficient velocities, but not so long it becomes unwieldy in a truck or treestand. Weighing around 8.5 pounds, it’s solid enough to be steady off a rest but won’t break your back on a long hike. The real story is the stock. HS Precision is a respected name in the precision shooting world, and getting their stock on a rifle at this price point is a significant value win. It’s a drop-in ready system that fits out of the box, requiring no bedding or gunsmithing to start achieving tight groups.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Howa is for the shooter who wants to step up from a basic hunting rifle but can’t justify a $1,500+ custom rig. It’s perfect for the Missouri whitetail hunter who takes longer shots across fields, the shooter wanting to try their first PRS-style club match, or anyone who values a durable, accurate rifle without the financial pain. It bridges the gap between entry-level and high-end. If you’re considering a Ruger American or a Savage Axis but want better stock ergonomics and material, this is the logical next step. Conversely, if you’re eyeing a Tikka T3x or a Bergara but need to watch your budget, this Howa gives up only a little fit and finish for several hundred dollars in savings.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: The price-to-performance ratio is outstanding. The HS Precision stock is a major upgrade over flimsy injection-molded stocks, providing real bedding block stability. The 6.5 Creedmoor chambering is versatile and ammo is widely available. The Howa action has a great reputation for reliability and smoothness. It’s a complete, ready-to-go package.
Cons: At 8.5 lbs, it’s not the lightest mountain rifle—that’s the tradeoff for the heavy barrel and rigid stock. The trigger, while adjustable, isn’t a premium jeweled unit (though it’s perfectly serviceable). The finish and machining might not be quite as refined as some more expensive European brands, but that’s where the savings come from. Look, you’re getting a functional precision tool, not a luxury showpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does this rifle come with scope bases installed?
A: No, it does not. The Howa 1500 action uses a specific hole pattern for mounting bases. You will need to purchase and install separate scope bases or a one-piece rail, which are widely available from brands like Warne, Leupold, or EGW.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for a muzzle brake or suppressor?
A: The standard model described here typically does not have a threaded muzzle. Howa does offer threaded barrel variants, so if that’s a requirement, you may need to check for a specific SKU or model designation.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?
A: With quality factory ammunition, sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy is a reasonable expectation from this platform. Many users report consistent 0.75″ to 1.25″ groups at 100 yards with match-grade ammo, which is more than capable for hunting and competitive shooting.
Here’s the thing—in the world of precision rifles, you often pay a big premium for the last 10% of performance. The Howa HS PRECISION package delivers about 90% of that capability for a fraction of the cost. It’s a smart, budget-conscious choice that doesn’t ask you to compromise on the fundamentals of a rigid stock and a proven action. Remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. If you’re ready for a rifle that handles like a precision tool without the custom price, this Howa deserves a close look.
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