Howa Mini Action Rifle Package 6.5 Grendel 22″

Description

I was looking for a light, handy rifle for whitetail in the Missouri timber and for longer-range varmint control on the farm. I wanted something that hit harder than a .223 but didn’t have the weight or recoil of my .308. That’s when I got my hands on the Howa Mini Action Rifle Package 6.5 Grendel, 22″ Barrel, Blued, Green Stock, 10rd. It’s a compact, lightweight bolt-action rifle chambered in the efficient 6.5 Grendel cartridge, designed for hunters and shooters who value a short action and easy handling. The package includes a factory-mounted Nikko Stirling 3-9×40 scope and rings, so it’s essentially drop-in ready.

Look, the 6.5 Grendel is the star here. From this 22-inch barrel, it delivers flat trajectory and solid energy out to 400 yards, making it a fantastic choice for deer-sized game and target shooting. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of Hornady Black and American Gunner ammo through mine, and the accuracy is consistently impressive for a rifle at this price point. The action is smooth right out of the box—no gunsmithing required to get it running. It cycles reliably, and the two-position safety is positive and easy to manipulate. The green Hogue OverMolded stock provides a solid, non-slip grip in all weather, which is a nice touch for those damp Missouri mornings.

Here’s the thing—the Mini Action is the real advantage. It’s significantly shorter and lighter than a standard short action, which translates directly to a faster, more agile rifle in the field. The entire package weighs in at just over 7.5 pounds scoped, so carrying it all day is a non-issue. The 10-round detachable magazine is a huge benefit for range sessions or follow-up shots, and it sits flush with the stock for a clean profile. The blued finish on the barrel and action is classic and durable, holding up well to field use. At $401.46, this complete package represents a serious value, especially considering the included optic.

Specification	Detail
Caliber	6.5 Grendel
Action	Bolt Action, Mini
Barrel Length	22 Inches
Overall Length	Approx. 41.5 Inches
Weight	Approx. 7.5 lbs (scoped)
Magazine Capacity	10 Rounds (Detachable Box)
Stock	Hogue OverMolded, Green
Finish	Blued

Pros: The out-of-the-box readiness with a mounted scope is a major plus. The 6.5 Grendel offers excellent ballistic performance for the size. The Hogue stock is genuinely comfortable and grippy. The mini action makes for a fantastically balanced and quick-handling rifle. The 10-round magazine capacity is generous for a bolt gun.

Cons: The trigger, while good, is a bit heavier than some premium aftermarket options—though it’s plenty serviceable for hunting. 6.5 Grendel ammo, while common, isn’t as ubiquitous as .223 or .308 on every store shelf.

So who is this rifle for? It’s perfect for the Missouri hunter pursuing deer or coyotes from a stand or while still-hunting. It’s for the shooter who wants a capable, mid-range target rifle without a heavy recoil penalty. It’s also an ideal first “real” centerfire rifle for a younger shooter due to its light weight and manageable recoil. This package is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the scope any good, or should I plan to replace it immediately?

A: The included Nikko Stirling 3-9×40 is a legitimate entry-level hunting scope. It’s fully multi-coated, holds zero, and gets the job done. For a hunter on a budget, it’s perfectly adequate to start with. You can always upgrade later, but you won’t be stuck with a useless piece of glass.

Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?

A: With quality factory ammunition like Hornady or Federal, sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy is absolutely achievable. That means groups under 1 inch at 100 yards are common. The Howa barrel and action are known for their solid, consistent performance.

Q: Are aftermarket parts available for the Howa Mini Action?

A: Yes, the platform is well-supported. You can find chassis systems from companies like MDT and KRG, as well as a variety of stock options, triggers from brands like Timney, and plenty of scope base/mount choices. The action uses a standard Remington 700 short-action footprint for scope bases.

If you’re in the market for a lightweight, capable, and ready-to-hunt package that won’t break the bank, the Howa Mini Action in 6.5 Grendel deserves a close look.