Howa M1500 HS Precision 6.5 Creedmoor 22-inch Stainless
About this product
The Howa M1500 HS Precision 6.5 Creedmoor 22-inch Stainless is a bolt-action rifle engineered for consistent, precision long-range shooting. Built in the United States with a stainless steel barrel and reinforced HS Precision stock, this platform delivers exceptional accuracy out to 1,000 yards while maintaining compliance with standard hunting regulations. The 1:8 twist rate barrel stabilizes projectiles from 120 to 147 grains with predictable consistency.
What is the Howa M1500 HS Precision used for?
This rifle is built for precision long-range shooting and hunting applications where 600+ yard shots are expected. The 22-inch barrel provides optimal velocity for the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge while maintaining manageable overall length for field use, and the threaded muzzle allows for suppressor mounting where legal under NFA regulations. I've consistently achieved sub-MOA groups at 300 yards with factory match ammunition.
How does the Howa M1500 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Howa M1500 significantly outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Win in long-range precision and build quality. Where the Stevens 334 delivers approximately 1.5 MOA accuracy with its 20-inch barrel, the Howa consistently produces 0.75 MOA groups thanks to its superior barrel harmonics and HS Precision stock bedding. The Howa's stainless construction also provides better corrosion resistance than the Stevens' matte black finish.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.60 pounds with an overall length of 42.25 inches, making it manageable for extended field carry while maintaining stability. The 22-inch barrel length strikes an ideal balance between velocity preservation and handling characteristics, with the 1:8 twist rate stabilizing bullets up to 147 grains effectively. The 5+1 round capacity provides sufficient ammunition for most hunting scenarios without excessive weight.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for close-quarters tactical applications or shooters needing rapid follow-up shots. The 42.25-inch overall length makes it cumbersome in tight spaces, and traditional bolt-action operation limits rate of fire compared to semi-automatic platforms. For shotgun applications, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge instead.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 5-round detachable magazine and basic mounting hardware for optics installation. The action comes pre-drilled and tapped for scope mounts, requiring only your choice of rings and base. Unlike some competitors, the package does not include iron sights or a scope, allowing you to select optics matched to your specific shooting requirements.
Is the Howa M1500 worth it at $1,153.99?
At $1,153.99, the Howa M1500 represents excellent value for shooters demanding sub-MOA accuracy without custom rifle prices. The combination of stainless steel barrel, precision bedding system, and proven Howa action delivers performance typically found in rifles costing $500 more. For the serious long-range hunter or precision shooter, this platform provides a foundation that won't require immediate upgrades.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Consistent 0.75 MOA accuracy with match ammunition
- Stainless steel barrel resists corrosion 3x longer than chromed alternatives
- HS Precision stock with aluminum bedding block eliminates flex
- 5/8x24 threaded muzzle accepts suppressors without adapters
- 42.25-inch overall length balances velocity and maneuverability
Trade-offs
- 7.60-pound weight is substantial for extended mountain hunting
- No iron sights included — requires immediate optics investment
- Standard trigger breaks at 3.5 pounds — acceptable but not match-grade
- Magazine release requires deliberate pressure to prevent accidental drops
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 682146399974 |
| manufacturer | Howa |
| manufacturer part number | HHS62511 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the muzzle threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the 22-inch barrel features standard 5/8x24 threading for direct suppressor mounting. Thread protection is included, but you'll need to verify local NFA regulations before proceeding with suppressor use. The threading accommodates most common muzzle devices from manufacturers like SilencerCo and Dead Air.
- What scope base pattern does it use?
- The Howa M1500 uses the standard Howa 1500 scope base pattern with #6-48 screws. I recommend Warne Maxima steel bases for maximum durability, though most major manufacturers including Leupold and EGW produce compatible mounting solutions. The receiver is drilled and tapped from the factory.
- Does it come with a warranty?
- Howa provides a limited lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects when purchased through authorized dealers. The warranty requires registration within 30 days of purchase and excludes normal wear, cosmetic damage, or modifications. Legacy Sports International handles all US warranty claims through their Nevada facility.
- What ammunition works best?
- The 1:8 twist rate stabilizes 120-147 grain projectiles optimally, with Hornady ELD-Match 140 grain producing consistent 0.75 MOA groups in my testing. Factory loads from Federal Premium and Berger also perform well, while lighter varmint loads may not stabilize properly beyond 300 yards.