Description
You’re looking for a reliable, accurate rifle that won’t break the bank, but you’re tired of the compromises that often come with budget bolt-actions. Maybe you’ve handled a few that felt clunky or had questionable fit and finish. The Howa Rifle .223 Remington 22″ Stainless Steel Barrel Black Hogue Stock 5rds presents a different proposition. It’s a factory-built, no-nonsense hunting and varmint rifle that delivers proven performance and modern materials at a price point that demands attention.
So, what is it? The Howa Rifle .223 Remington 22″ Stainless Steel Barrel Black Hogue Stock 5rds is a bolt-action centerfire rifle built on Howa’s renowned 1500 action. It features a corrosion-resistant stainless steel barrel, a comfortable and grippy Hogue OverMolded stock, and comes ready to scope and shoot. Chambered in the affordable and versatile .223 Remington, it’s a practical choice for predator control, target shooting, and hunting small to medium game. At $615.78, it sits in a sweet spot between entry-level rifles and premium custom guns.
Let’s talk about where your money goes. The heart 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 both secure and intuitive. The 22-inch stainless steel barrel isn’t just for looks—it resists the elements during long days in the field, a real benefit for Missouri’s variable weather. Paired with the matte black finish, it offers a low-maintenance, durable package. The barrel is button-rifled for consistent accuracy, and the receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, so it’s drop-in ready for your favorite optics. The rifle ships with a 5-round detachable box magazine, a practical feature for safe unloading and quick reloads.
The Hogue OverMolded stock is a major value-add. This isn’t a cheap, hollow-feeling plastic stock. It’s a full-length bedding block system overmolded with a soft, textured rubberized material. The result is a stock that’s incredibly rigid for accuracy, yet provides a secure, comfortable grip in all conditions. It dampens vibration better than standard synthetic stocks and fits a wide range of shooters well. The total package weighs in at a very manageable 7.5 pounds, making it easy to carry on long walks.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Action | Howa 1500 Bolt Action |
| Caliber | .223 Remington |
| Barrel | 22″, Stainless Steel, 1:12″ Twist |
| Stock | Black Hogue OverMolded with Full Bedding Block |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds (Detachable Box) |
| Overall Length | 42.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
Pros: Outstanding value for the feature set. The stainless steel barrel and Hogue stock are premium touches at this price. The action is proven and smooth. The .223 Remington chambering means cheap practice ammo and readily available hunting loads. It’s a lightweight, low-maintenance rifle built for real-world use.
Cons: The 1:12″ twist rate is best suited for lighter bullets (typically up to 55-62 grains), limiting very long-range performance with heavy projectiles. As with any complete firearm, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. It’s a factory rifle, so don’t expect custom-grade fit and finish—though Howa’s is consistently good.
Who is this rifle for? It’s perfect for the budget-conscious hunter who needs a dependable tool for coyotes, groundhogs, or deer (where legal). It’s an excellent first “serious” rifle for a new shooter, thanks to the mild recoil of .223 Remington and the straightforward setup. It’s also a great option for a seasoned shooter wanting a reliable, accurate “beater” rifle for harsh conditions without the worry of damaging a prized firearm. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What scope mounts does this rifle use?
A: The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Remington 700 short-action scope base patterns. This is a huge advantage—mounts and rails from brands like Warne, Leupold, and EGW are widely available and affordable, giving you endless optic mounting options.
Q: Can it shoot 5.56 NATO ammunition?
A: We do not recommend firing 5.56 NATO in a rifle chambered specifically for .223 Remington. While often similar, 5.56 NATO operates at higher pressures. For safety and warranty integrity, stick with commercially loaded .223 Remington ammunition. The rifle’s 22-inch barrel will efficiently burn powder for excellent velocity with standard .223 loads.
Q: Is the stock adjustable?
A: No, the Hogue OverMolded stock is a fixed design. Its strength is its consistent, rigid bedding which promotes accuracy. The soft overmold and ergonomic shape fit most shooters very well straight from the factory. For a custom fit, the aftermarket for Howa 1500 stocks and chassis is extensive, but that adds cost.
If you need a workhorse rifle that brings premium materials into an attainable package, the Howa with its stainless barrel and Hogue stock deserves a close look. Check availability and see if it’s the right fit for your next outing.
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