Description
The Howa Ranchland Compact Rifle in .204 Ruger is a purpose-built, short-barreled bolt-action rifle designed for mobility and fast handling in tight spaces like a truck cab or a dense treestand. It features a 20-inch blued barrel, a durable synthetic stock in a sand finish, and a 5-round detachable magazine. I’ve put a few boxes of Hornady through one, and it’s a flat-shooting, low-recoil package that’s ready to go right out of the box.
Key Features
- Compact 20″ Barrel: Manages length without sacrificing too much velocity, perfect for quick swings.
- Durable Synthetic Stock: The sand-colored finish is tough, weather-resistant, and low-maintenance.
- Howa 1500 Action: A proven, smooth-running system known for its reliability and solid lockup.
- Sub-MOA Accuracy Guarantee: Howa backs this rifle with a sub-minute-of-angle guarantee with premium ammo.
- Detachable 5-Round Magazine: Allows for easy unloading and quick reloads in the field.
- Adjustable Trigger: The HACT two-stage trigger is user-adjustable from 2.5 to 4 lbs for a crisp break.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .204 Ruger |
| Barrel | 20″, Blued |
| Overall Length | ~39.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 6.3 lbs |
| Stock | Synthetic, Sand Finish |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Action | Bolt Action |
Look, the .204 Ruger is a bit of a specialist’s round, but it’s a laser beam. That 20-inch barrel keeps the overall length down to a very handy 39.5 inches or so, and the weight sits around a comfortable 6.3 pounds. You’re getting the robust Howa 1500 action at the heart of it, which is a favorite for its consistency. The stock has a decent recoil pad—not that you need much with the .204—and the finish hides scratches from briars or a gun rack. At $543.31, it’s positioned as a serious working tool, not a safe queen. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the varminter or predator caller who covers ground. Think a farmer needing a compact coyote rifle for the UTV, or a hunter navigating thick brush for woodchucks. The compact dimensions make it ideal for younger shooters or anyone of smaller stature who still demands full-power, accurate performance. It’s also a fantastic truck gun where space is at a premium. If your primary concern is long-range benchrest shooting, you might want a longer barrel, but for dynamic hunting under 300 yards, this configuration shines.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The handling is its biggest sell—it’s incredibly pointable and fast. Recoil is negligible, making follow-up shots and practice sessions a breeze. The synthetic stock is truly no-worry in any weather. Howa’s sub-MOA guarantee isn’t marketing fluff; these rifles are accurate. The HACT trigger is excellent for a factory offering. No gunsmithing required to get it running; mount a scope and you’re set.
Cons: The .204 Ruger, while devastating on varmints, isn’t as ubiquitous as .223 Remington. Ammo selection and cost can be a factor. The 20-inch barrel does sacrifice some muzzle velocity compared to a 24-inch tube, though the trade-off for maneuverability is worth it for its role. The sand finish is practical, but it won’t win beauty contests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .204 Ruger suitable for anything larger than coyotes or prairie dogs?
A: I wouldn’t recommend it. The .204 is a hyper-velocity varmint round designed for explosive fragmentation on small game. For fox, coyote, and smaller predators, it’s superb. For deer or larger animals, it lacks the necessary bullet mass and construction for ethical, humane kills. Stick to its intended purpose.
Q: What scope mounts does this use?
A: The Howa 1500 action uses a standardized mounting pattern. It’s compatible with one-piece bases or two-piece bases designed for the Remington 700 short action, which opens up a huge world of options from brands like Warne, Leupold, and EGW. Rings or a cantilever mount from those systems will fit perfectly.
Q: How does the compact stock fit a full-sized adult?
A: Here’s the thing—the “Compact” mainly refers to the shorter barrel and overall length. The length of pull is slightly reduced but is often still very manageable for an average adult, especially when wearing winter layers. If it feels too short, a slip-on recoil pad spacer can easily add an inch. The balance is what you’ll notice most; it’s quick and lively in the hands.
If you need a rugged, accurate, and purpose-built rifle for fast-paced varmint control, the Howa Ranchland Compact in .204 Ruger deserves a close look. Check availability and remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.