Description
The Howa Varminter, .223 Rem, 20″, Green Synthetic Stock, Blued is a purpose-built bolt-action rifle designed for precision and reliability in the field. It’s a dedicated tool for controlling pests and varmints at distance, offering a robust action and a lightweight, weather-resistant synthetic stock. This rifle ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for duty without fuss.
Key Features
- Varmint-Weight Barrel: The 20-inch heavy-contour barrel provides stability and heat management for repeated, accurate shots.
- Sub-MOA Accuracy Guarantee: Howa backs this rifle with a sub-minute-of-angle accuracy guarantee with quality ammunition.
- HACT 2-Stage Trigger: A crisp, adjustable trigger system for clean breaks and enhanced shot control.
- Green Synthetic Stock: A durable, lightweight stock that shrugs off weather and rough handling, perfect for long treks.
- Blued Finish: A classic, corrosion-resistant finish on the barrel and action for dependable protection.
- 3-Position Safety: Includes a safe, fire, and bolt release position for secure handling and unloading.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .223 Remington |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | 40.5 Inches (Approx.) |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs (Approx.) |
| Stock | Green Synthetic |
| Action | Bolt Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds (Detachable Box Magazine) |
| Finish | Blued |
When it comes to dispatching prairie dogs, coyotes, or groundhogs threatening your property, you need a rifle that connects on the first shot. The Howa 1500 action is renowned for its smooth operation and strength, forming a solid foundation. The heavy barrel mitigates heat mirage and point-of-impact shift during extended shooting sessions—critical when a colony is active. At a total weight around 7.5 lbs, it’s light enough for carry but heavy enough to steady your aim from a bipod or shooting sticks. The price point of $433.89 makes this a serious value proposition for a rifle with this level of out-of-the-box performance.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the landowner protecting livestock from predators, the farmer clearing fields of crop-damaging pests, or the shooter who enjoys the challenge of long-range small targets. It’s a practical, no-nonsense firearm for those who need repeatable accuracy without a custom shop price tag. It’s also an excellent entry into precision rimfire-style shooting with centerfire affordability and component availability.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The sub-MOA guarantee provides confidence in its inherent accuracy. The synthetic stock is virtually maintenance-free and durable. The HACT trigger is a standout feature, often requiring no aftermarket replacement. The .223 Remington chambering offers low recoil, affordable practice ammo, and devastating effectiveness on varmints with the right load. It’s drop-in ready for optics with its drilled and tapped receiver, compatible with standard Weaver or Picatinny scope bases.
Cons: The 20-inch barrel, while great for handling, sacrifices some velocity compared to a 24-inch varmint barrel. The synthetic stock, though tough, may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as wood. As a dedicated varminter, it’s not a general-purpose hunting rifle for larger game—that said, its role-specific design is its greatest strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of scope base does this rifle use?
A: The Howa 1500 action uses a standardized mounting pattern. It is compatible with scope bases designed for the Howa 1500, Remington 700 short action, or Weatherby Vanguard. Popular brands like Warne, Leupold, and EGW make direct-fit bases and rings.
Q: Is the magazine detachable?
A: Yes. This model comes with a detachable box magazine with a 5-round capacity, allowing for quick reloads and safe unloading without cycling rounds through the chamber.
Q: Can this rifle handle 5.56 NATO ammunition?
A: No. This rifle is chambered specifically for .223 Remington. While .223 Remington can be fired in a 5.56 chamber, the reverse is not safe due to higher 5.56 pressure. Stick to commercially loaded .223 Rem ammunition for safety and optimal performance.
Ready to add a reliable, accurate tool to your arsenal for pest control and precision shooting? This Howa Varminter is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.



Reviews
There are no reviews yet.