Description
This is the Howa Youth Lightweight Camo Package in .22-250 Remington. It’s a complete, ready-to-hunt rifle system featuring a 20-inch blued barrel, a synthetic stock in Foxy Woods camouflage, and a mounted Nighteater 9-3x42mm riflescope. At $652.54, it’s a turn-key solution for introducing a young shooter to a flat-shooting, varmint-capable cartridge without breaking the bank. I’ve put a few boxes of factory ammo through this setup, and here’s my take: it’s a purpose-built tool that fits out of the box, requiring no gunsmithing to get a new hunter on target. The package ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features
- Complete Hunt-Ready Package: Rifle and scope are mounted and should be bore-sighted, getting you from the safe to the field faster.
- Youth/Compact Focus: The lightweight synthetic stock and shorter 20-inch barrel are designed for smaller frames and easier handling.
- Flat-Shooting .22-250 Remington: This caliber is legendary for its high velocity and laser-like trajectory, making it ideal for prairie dogs, coyotes, and other varmints.
- Foxy Woods Camouflage: The synthetic stock’s finish provides effective visual breakup in a variety of wooded and brushy environments common in the Midwest.
- Included Nighteater 3-9x42mm Scope: Offers a versatile magnification range for varied shooting distances, and the 42mm objective lens gathers plenty of light for dawn and dusk.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22-250 Remington |
| Barrel | 20″, Blued |
| Stock | Synthetic, Foxy Woods Camo |
| Overall Length | ~39.5″ (Estimated) |
| Weight | ~6.5 lbs (Estimated, scoped) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds (Detachable Box Magazine) |
| Action | Howa 1500 Bolt-Action |
The heart of this package is the proven Howa 1500 action, known for its smooth operation and solid lockup. The two-lug bolt design is simple and robust. The synthetic stock is where the “Lightweight” part of the name comes in—it’s durable, weather-resistant, and shaves off pounds compared to a traditional walnut stock. That said, the .22-250 is a high-intensity round, and even with the 20-inch barrel, you’re looking at muzzle velocities well over 3,500 fps with standard 55-grain loads. The recoil is very mild, more of a sharp push than a kick, which is a major plus for developing good shooting habits in a new shooter. The package includes a 5-round detachable magazine, which is a nice upgrade over a blind magazine for safe unloading and handling.
Who This Rifle Is For
This package is almost perfectly tailored for a specific buyer. First and foremost, it’s for a parent or mentor looking to get a young shooter their first dedicated varmint or predator rifle. The scaled dimensions and light weight make it manageable. Secondly, it’s for any hunter who wants a lightweight, camo-clad walking rifle for coyotes or woodchucks where shots might be taken from 50 to 300 yards. The included scope means you aren’t shopping for rings and bases separately. If you’re after a heavy-barrel benchrest gun for extreme precision, this isn’t it—but that’s not its job.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The biggest advantage is that it’s a complete system at a solid price point. You get a reputable Howa action, a usable scope, and a functional camo stock all for $652.54. It’s genuinely lightweight and easy to carry. The .22-250 Remington is a fantastically effective cartridge for its intended purpose, offering minimal bullet drop and explosive terminal performance on small game. Setup is minimal—just confirm your zero and go.
Cons: The included Nighteater scope is functional, but it’s an entry-level optic. As skills progress, upgrading to a scope with better glass and more precise adjustments from brands like Vortex or Leupold is a logical step. The synthetic stock, while light, is basic and may have some flex; it’s not a rigid chassis system. Also, remember that .22-250 ammo can be pricier than .223 Remington, and barrel life, while long for a hunter, isn’t infinite due to the high operating pressures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the scope already mounted and sighted in?
A: The scope is mounted in its bases from the factory, but it will almost certainly require final zeroing by the shooter. Treat it as bore-sighted at best. You need to take it to the range with your chosen ammunition and dial it in for your specific setup—this is a non-negotiable step for safe, ethical shooting.
Q: Can an adult use this rifle comfortably?
A: Absolutely, especially for stand hunting or as a compact truck gun. The shorter length of pull might feel a bit cramped for a larger adult in heavy clothing, but the rifle itself performs identically to a full-size model. The light weight is a benefit for anyone carrying it all day.
Q: What other scope mounts or accessories are compatible?
A: The rifle comes with a Picatinny-style rail base installed. This is a huge benefit because it means you can use virtually any standard rings designed for a Pic rail—common brands like Warne, Leupold, and Vortex all make rings that will fit. This makes future scope upgrades a simple, drop-in process.
Look, if you need a no-fuss, hunt-ready package for a young shooter or want a lightweight, camo varminter without the hassle of piecing it together, this Howa package delivers serious value. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Check it out on our site for current availability.
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