Howa M1500 Mini Action 6mm ARC 20″ Threaded, Gray Stock
Pros & cons
What works
- HS Precision stock with full-length aluminum bedding block eliminates action flex for consistent sub-MOA accuracy.
- Two-stage trigger is adjustable from 2.5 to 4 pounds pull weight—a 1.5-pound adjustment range for fine-tuning.
- 20-inch threaded barrel with 1:8" twist stabilizes heavy 6mm ARC projectiles up to 108 grains for long-range performance.
- Mini-action design reduces bolt lift by 0.75 inches compared to a standard short action, speeding up follow-up shots.
Trade-offs
- Weighs 8.95 lbs unscoped—nearly 2 lbs heavier than some synthetic-stocked hunting rifles, impacting portability.
- Proprietary magazine system limits aftermarket options and increases spare magazine cost to approximately $45 each.
- No included scope mounting solution; requires purchase of a separate Remington 700-pattern base and rings.
- Gray HS Precision stock lacks molded-in sling swivel studs on the forend; requires end-user installation for a bipod.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Howa M1500 Mini Action 6mm ARC 20" Threaded, Gray Stock is a purpose-built bolt-action rifle designed for shooters who demand precision cartridge performance in a compact, suppressor-ready action. It represents a modern execution of Howa’s proven M1500 design, scaled down around cartridges like the 6mm ARC. I consider this configuration, with its threaded 20-inch barrel and HS Precision gray synthetic stock, a direct answer for hunters and target shooters needing a rifle that balances ballistic efficiency with a reduced physical footprint from bolt face to buttplate.
What is the Howa M1500 Mini Action 6mm ARC 20" Threaded used for?
This rifle is engineered for precision shooting scenarios at intermediate ranges, primarily from 200 to 850 yards. The 6mm ARC cartridge provides flat trajectory and high retained energy ideal for predator/varmint hunting (like coyotes) and medium-game hunting in open terrain where shots frequently exceed 250 yards. Its threaded muzzle and 20-inch barrel length make it an optimal candidate for use with a sound suppressor, reducing muzzle blast and signature for range session comfort or hunting stealth.
How does the Howa M1500 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win?
The Howa M1500 Mini Action is specifically superior for reduced recoil and flatter trajectory over distance, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers greater terminal energy on larger game at closer ranges. The 6mm ARC in this Howa will shoot roughly 30% flatter at 500 yards than a standard .308 Winchester load, translating to less holdover and wind-drift compensation for the shooter. The Stevens 334 is the better choice for hunters in dense timber or those prioritizing sheer knockdown power on elk-sized game inside 300 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs a specific 8.95 pounds unloaded and measures 39.50 inches from trigger to muzzle cap. The 20-inch barrel with a 5/8x24 thread pitch constitutes the primary length, while the overall height from the top of the scope rail to the bottom of the stock's forend is approximately 3.25 inches, which allows for standard-height scope rings and a bipod to clear the bench. For reference, this makes it roughly 2.5 inches shorter in overall length than many full-size action rifles chambered in .308 Winchester.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for the budget-conscious first-time rifle buyer or someone seeking a lightweight mountain rifle for rugged backcountry pursuits. At nearly 9 pounds before optics and a magazine loaded with 6mm ARC cartridges (which weigh roughly 135 grains each), the total carried weight will exceed 10.5 pounds—a significant load for steep climbs. Additionally, the 6mm ARC is a relatively new cartridge; shooters who prioritize ubiquitous, cheap ammunition availability should look at established calibers like .223 Remington found in alternatives like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships from the distributor with the barreled action installed in the HS Precision stock, one 5-round metal detachable box magazine pre-installed, a standard thread protector installed on the muzzle, and the factory-provided trigger adjustment tool. Notably absent is a scope mounting solution—the receiver is drilled and tapped for a standard Remington 700-pattern scope base (sold separately), and no rings, bases, or optic of any kind are included. You must also supply your own shipping case; it does not include a factory hard or soft case.
Is the Howa M1500 Mini Action worth it at $1,558.98?
Yes, at $1,558.98, this rifle is worth it for the shooter who values a ready-to-suppress, precision-oriented action and stock combination that typically requires aftermarket modification on other platforms. The HS Precision stock alone, with its full-length aluminum bedding block, would cost over $350 separately, and the Howa mini-action is known for its sub-MOA accuracy potential out of the box. For a shooter looking to engage in NRL Hunter or PRS Gas Gun-style competitions with a bolt gun, this rifle provides a foundational platform that would otherwise cost over $2,200 to replicate by building from a bare action and aftermarket parts.
Key attributes
| upc | 682146882506 |
| manufacturer | Howa |
| manufacturer part number | HHSCF6ARCGRYBLK |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 6mm ARC |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| safety | 3 Position |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with a standard Remington 700 scope base?
- Yes. The Howa M1500 receiver uses the same hole spacing and thread pattern (6-48) as a standard short-action Remington 700. Any Picatinny or Weaver-style scope base marketed for a Remington 700 short action will mount directly. I recommend using a torque driver set to 18-20 inch-pounds on the base screws for a secure, repeatable fit.
- Does this work with standard AR-15 6mm ARC magazines?
- No. This rifle uses Howa's proprietary detachable box magazine system, not standard AR-15 pattern magazines. The supplied 5-round metal magazine is the correct unit; aftermarket options from companies like MDT or Accurate Mag offer higher capacity. Attempting to use an AR-15 magazine will not function and may damage the rifle's feed lips.
- Is the barrel threaded 1/2x28 or 5/8x24?
- The barrel is threaded 5/8x24. This is the industry-standard thread pitch for .30 caliber and many 6mm suppressors and muzzle devices. You can directly thread a suppressor with a 5/8x24 mount, or use a thread adapter if your muzzle device uses a different pitch. The thread protector is aluminum and should be hand-tightened only.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard shipping to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 5-7 business days from the time the order clears our compliance and payment verification process. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout for an additional fee, which can reduce transit time to 2-3 business days. You must contact your chosen FFL to confirm they will accept the shipment before you place your order.