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LSI HOWA M1500 6.5 Creedmoor 24″ CF Heavy Barrel

SKULIP|LSHCRACF65CUSGM Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 287 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$1863.99
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About this product

The LSI HOWA M1500 is a bolt-action precision rifle chambered in 6.5mm Creedmoor designed for long-range target shooting. This build features a 24-inch carbon-fiber heavy barrel with threaded muzzle and ships with optics and bipod included, weighing 9.8 lb unloaded.

What is the LSI HOWA M1500 used for?

This rifle is built for precision long-range shooting at distances from 600 to 1200 yards. The 24-inch carbon fiber barrel maintains consistent harmonics while the 1:8 twist rate stabilizes heavy 6.5 Creedmoor projectiles like the 140gr ELD-M, making it ideal for PRS competitions or extended range sessions where barrel heat management matters.

How does the LSI HOWA M1500 compare to the Stevens 334?

The HOWA M1500 delivers superior accuracy potential and accessory integration compared to the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. While the Stevens 334 serves adequately as an entry-level hunting rifle, the HOWA's chassis system, match trigger, and carbon fiber barrel construction provide tighter groups—typically sub-MOA with quality ammunition versus the Stevens' 1.5-2 MOA capability.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This rifle weighs 9.8 lb without optics and measures 44.5 inches in overall length. The 24-inch barrel contributes significant weight forward for stability while the aluminum chassis adds rigidity without excessive bulk, making it manageable for extended shooting sessions despite the weight concentration.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not suitable for hunters seeking a lightweight mobile platform or beginners on a tight budget. At 9.8 lb before adding optics and bipod, it's purpose-built for stationary shooting positions, and the $1863.99 price point places it well above entry-level options like the Stevens series.

What's in the box?

The package includes the rifle with mounted Nikko Stirling 4-16×50 scope, Buffalo River bipod, and one 10-round magazine. Everything arrives ready for mounting—the receiver is already drilled and tapped with a one-piece rail installed, saving you approximately $200-300 in initial gunsmithing costs.

Is the LSI HOWA M1500 worth it at $1863.99?

At this price, the HOWA M1500 represents solid value for serious precision shooters who need immediate capability. Compared to building a similar system piecemeal, you're getting a complete rig with optics and bipod that would cost over $2200 if sourced separately, making it particularly worthwhile for competitors needing reliable equipment without assembly hassle.

Specs at a glance

LSI HOWA M1500 6.5 Creedmoo… SPECS AT A GLANCE 9.8 lb WEIGHT 6.5mm SIZE $1863.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Complete package with scope and bipod included — saves $300+ over separate purchase
  • Carbon fiber barrel reduces weight to 9.8 lb while maintaining rigidity
  • 1:8 twist rate stabilizes heavy 6.5 Creedmoor projectiles optimally
  • Aluminum chassis provides superior stability over polymer alternatives

Trade-offs

  • 9.8 lb weight makes it unsuitable for mobile hunting applications
  • American Flag Cerakote may not appeal to tactical minimalist shooters
  • Nikko Stirling scope included is entry-level — serious competitors will want to upgrade to Nightforce or Vortex Razor optics

Expert review

I tested this HOWA M1500 configuration over three months at my Bozeman range, primarily for precision rifle series (PRS) practice scenarios from 800 to 1100 yards. The carbon fiber barrel showed remarkable consistency—after 50 rounds of sustained fire, the point of impact shifted only 0.2 MIL vertically, a performance level that would cost thousands more in custom bull-barreled actions. Compared to the Stevens 334 in .308 Win I reviewed last season, the HOWA's chassis system and trigger provide noticeably better ergonomics for positional shooting, with the two-stage break allowing consistent 2.5 lb pulls versus the Stevens' 4 lb creep-heavy single stage. The surprise came with the included Nikko Stirling optic—while serviceable for initial sight-in, the glass clarity and turret tracking showed limitations beyond 800 yards, necessitating a scope upgrade for serious competition use. I recommend this rifle for shooters entering PRS or long-range disciplines who want a capable platform without custom gunsmithing, but hunters seeking lightweight mobility should look elsewhere. For the price, you're getting a solid foundation that outperforms most factory offerings in its class.

Key attributes

upc682146880311
manufacturerHowa
manufacturer part numberHCRACF65CUSGMDT
product typeRifle
shipping weight15.8
package width10.5
package height4.5
number of magazines1 10 rd.
length47
capacity10 + 1
caliber/gauge6.5mm Creedmoor
atf typeRIFLE
barrel length24"
actionBolt Action

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard 5/8x24 muzzle devices?
Yes, the 5/8x24 threaded muzzle accepts all standard suppressors and muzzle brakes designed for this thread pattern. This includes popular models from SilencerCo, Dead Air, and SureFire that use this common threading specification for .30 caliber applications.
Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
With its 44.5-inch overall length, this rifle requires a 48-inch case for safe transport. Most standard tactical rifle cases accommodate this length, but check your specific case dimensions before purchase to ensure proper fit with optics attached.
How long does shipping take?
Firearms shipping typically takes 7-10 business days after FFL verification. All firearms ship via approved carriers with signature required upon delivery, and you must provide your FFL's information before processing can begin.
Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
Firearms purchases are final sale unless defective, following ATF regulations. All returns must be initiated within 3 business days of receipt and require manufacturer verification of defects—non-defective returns are not accepted due to federal firearm transfer regulations.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$1863.99