Howa M1100 Walnut Hunter GamePro Rifle 18 in. w/ Scope
Pros & cons
What works
- Complete rifle-and-scope system weighing 9.75 lbs ready for field use.
- 18-inch #4 contour barrel with 1/2″-28 threads for direct suppressor attachment.
- 10-round rotary magazine design promotes reliable feeding versus box magazines.
- Traditional oil-finished walnut stock provides a solid, classic cheek weld.
Trade-offs
- No thread protector included for the muzzle—a $5-10 aftermarket part is needed.
- The 11mm dovetail mount limits optics options versus a Picatinny rail system.
- At 9.75 lbs, it's 1.5-2 lbs heavier than comparable synthetic-stocked .22LR rifles.
- The bolt handle is not oversized, requiring a firm grip for rapid cycling.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Howa M1100 Walnut Hunter GamePro Rifle is an 18-inch bolt-action rimfire rifle with a factory-mounted Nikko Stirling GamePro scope, designed for practical precision in the field and at the range. It combines traditional walnut aesthetics with modern functional features like a threaded barrel and detachable magazine. This configuration targets shooters who prioritize straightforward operation and reliable performance over maximum modularity.
What is the Howa M1100 Walnut Hunter GamePro Rifle used for?
This rifle is built for small-game hunting at typical field distances under 100 yards and for fundamental .22LR marksmanship training at the range. The 18-inch barrel provides an optimal balance for maneuverability in brush, while the #4 contour maintains sufficient rigidity without excess weight. The 10-round magazine capacity is practical for most state hunting regulations and range sessions focused on shot discipline, not rapid fire.
How does the Howa M1100 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Howa M1100 is better for a shooter seeking a traditional, ready-to-shoot rimfire package, while the Stevens 334 chambered in .308 Win is a centerfire platform for big game at longer distances, requiring a separate optics purchase. The M1100 ships with a Nikko Stirling GamePro scope, making its $677.99 total cost a complete system, whereas a Stevens 334 in .308 requires at least an additional $200 for a comparable optic. The Howa is a rimfire trainer; the Stevens is a hunting rifle.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
It weighs 9.75 pounds as scoped, making it a stable platform for offhand shooting but noticeably heavier than synthetic-stocked rimfires. The overall length is approximately 41.5 inches from butt to muzzle crown, with the 18-inch barrel threaded 1/2″-28. This length fits most standard rifle cases without needing to be broken down, a key convenience over longer-barreled varmint models.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for the competitive precision rimfire shooter who demands aftermarket chassis compatibility and a heavy, non-threaded bull barrel for benchrest stability. It’s also a poor choice for someone needing a truly lightweight backpacking gun, as the walnut stock and scope bring the weight to 9.75 lbs—over 2 lbs heavier than a synthetic-stocked Stevens 334 in .243 Win. Finally, it's not for those wanting a highly modular AR-style .22 platform.
What's in the box?
You receive the barreled action in the walnut stock, the factory-detached 10-round rotary magazine, and the Nikko Stirling GamePro 3-9x40 scope already mounted and torqued to spec. Notably absent is a separate Picatinny rail section for mounting other optics; the scope mounts directly to the receiver's integral 11mm dovetail. There is no thread protector included for the 1/2″-28 muzzle threads, a minor but real oversight.
Is the Howa M1100 worth it at $677.99?
Yes, for the buyer who wants a single-box, traditional-styled rimfire rifle ready for the field without the guesswork of pairing an optic. The value is in the complete package: a proven Howa action, a usable 3-9x scope, and a serviceable walnut stock. At this price, you avoid the $150-$250 additional expense and mounting labor of buying a scope separately for a bare rifle, making it a cost-effective entry into a quality .22LR platform.
Key attributes
| upc | 682146882759 |
| manufacturer | Howa |
| manufacturer part number | HWH22LRGP |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with a suppressor?
- Yes, the 1/2″-28 threaded muzzle is the standard pitch for .22LR rimfire suppressors. You can directly thread on models like the SilencerCo Sparrow or Dead Air Mask. Always ensure the suppressor is rated for .22LR and check local NFA regulations before purchase and use.
- Does it fit standard .22LR ammunition?
- Yes, it is chambered for standard .22 Long Rifle ammunition, including subsonic, standard velocity, and high-velocity rounds. For best accuracy, I recommend testing with 40-grain round-nose or match-grade ammunition from CCI or Eley. Avoid hyper-velocity rounds for precision work.
- Can the scope be easily replaced?
- Yes, but it requires a specific 11mm dovetail ring set, not a standard Picatinny rail. The Nikko Stirling scope uses 1-inch rings. To mount a different optic, you’ll need to purchase 11mm dovetail rings in the correct height, a process that takes about 10-15 minutes with proper tools.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes in-stock items within 1-2 business days. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground is typically 3-5 business days to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder. You must contact your FFL in advance to provide your shipping info and arrange transfer.