Description
You’re looking for a centerfire rifle that punches above its weight class without punching a hole in your wallet. You need something reliable for varmint control, target practice, or even a first deer rifle for a younger shooter. The challenge? Finding a platform with proven accuracy that doesn’t require a second mortgage for the rifle itself, leaving room in the budget for a scope. That’s where the Howa M-1500, .223 Rem, 22″ Barrel, 5rd, Hogue Stock, Black enters the picture.
The Howa M-1500, .223 Rem, 22″ Barrel, 5rd, Hogue Stock, Black is a bolt-action rifle built on Howa’s renowned 1500 action, featuring a 22-inch barrel chambered in .223 Remington, a 5-round detachable magazine, and a black Hogue OverMolded stock for a solid, ergonomic grip. It delivers consistent, sub-MOA accuracy at a price point that makes serious shooting accessible.
Let’s talk bang-for-buck. The heart of this rifle is the Howa 1500 action, a design with a stellar reputation for strength and smooth operation. It’s a controlled round feed, three-position safety system that’s proven itself on ranges and in fields for decades. The 22-inch barrel provides an excellent balance for the .223 Remington cartridge, giving you optimal velocity for flat shooting without being unwieldy in a blind or truck. That barrel is hammer-forged for consistency, which is a feature you often don’t see until you spend hundreds more.
The Hogue OverMolded stock is a major value-add. This isn’t a cheap, hollow-feeling piece of plastic. It’s a fiberglass-reinforced shell with a soft, grippy rubber overmold that fits out of the box and provides a secure hold in all weather conditions. It dampens vibration and includes a textured grip and forend. The rifle comes with a 5-round detachable box magazine, a practical capacity for most uses, and spare magazines are readily available. At a total weight around 7.5 lbs unscoped, it’s a manageable package for all-day carry.
Here’s the thing—the real value shines when you compare it to other entry-precision rifles. For $466.51, you’re getting a system that often shoots as well as rifles costing $200-$300 more. The money you save on the rifle itself can go directly toward a quality optic, like those from Vortex or Leupold, and a set of bases. The Howa 1500 uses a standardized footprint, compatible with common scope mounts from brands like Warne and EGW, so mounting is straightforward with no gunsmithing required.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Action | Bolt Action (Howa 1500) |
| Caliber | .223 Remington |
| Barrel Length | 22 Inches |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds (Detachable Box) |
| Stock | Hogue OverMolded, Black |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5 Inches |
| Trigger | HACT 2-Stage (Adjustable) |
Pros: Exceptional accuracy-per-dollar ratio. The Hogue stock provides immediate ergonomic benefits. The proven, smooth Howa 1500 action is a workhorse. The .223 Rem chambering means affordable practice and widely available ammunition. It’s a fantastic platform for learning long-range fundamentals.
Cons: The .223 Remington, while versatile, has limitations on larger game. The rifle is not lightweight by modern standards. As with any firearm, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases upon delivery.
So who is this rifle for? It’s perfect for the budget-conscious shooter who refuses to compromise on core performance. It’s an ideal first serious rifle for a new hunter, a dedicated varminter needing a tack-driver, or a precision shooter wanting a low-recoil practice rifle. If your goal is to get the most capable system for the least amount of cash, this Howa configuration is a top contender. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .223 Remington suitable for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: With careful shot placement and using appropriate, well-constructed bullets, the .223 Remington is legal and can be effective for whitetail deer in Missouri. However, it is at the lower end of the ethical caliber spectrum. Many hunters prefer more powerful cartridges like .243 Win or 6.5 Creedmoor for greater margin of error.
Q: Can the trigger be adjusted?
A: Yes. The Howa HACT (Howa Actuator Controlled Trigger) is a user-adjustable two-stage trigger. The pull weight can be safely lowered to around 2.5 lbs using the provided tool, allowing you to tailor the break to your preference for precision work.
Q: Does it come with scope bases installed?
A: No, scope bases are not included. The rifle’s receiver is drilled and tapped. You will need to purchase separate 1-piece or 2-piece bases. The Howa 1500 uses a standard pattern, so bases from brands like Warne, EGW, and Talley are widely compatible and easy to install.
If a reliable, accurate rifle that leaves room in your budget for optics sounds like your next move, see the full details on our product page.
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