Howa M1500 HS Precision 7mm Remington Magnum Bolt-Action Rifle
About this product
The Howa M1500 HS Precision in 7mm Remington Magnum is a bolt-action rifle built on a rigid, hand-bedded HS Precision fiberglass stock chassis for consistent, sub-MOA accuracy at distance. It represents what a factory-built, accuracy-focused hunting and precision rifle should be: mechanically sound, well-configured out of the box, and designed around verified performance rather than cosmetic trends. This is not a chassis rifle pretending to be something else; it's a purpose-built tool for those who value mechanical confidence from the bench to the backcountry.
What is the Howa M1500 HS Precision used for?
This rifle is designed for long-range hunting of large game and for precision shooting at extended ranges. Its primary use is delivering consistent, high-energy terminal performance on elk, moose, and similar-sized game at distances beyond the effective range of standard cartridges. The 7mm Remington Magnum cartridge, when paired with a stable, pillar-bedded platform like this, allows for ethical shots at 400-600 yards in competent hands, and the rifle's configuration makes it suitable for entry-level PRS-style competition or long-range steel target practice where .308 Winchester may be running out of steam.
How does the Howa M1500 compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Winchester?
This Howa is a specialist for extended range and energy, while the Stevens 334 is a general-purpose budget rifle. The Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester is a lighter, shorter, and significantly less expensive rifle designed for general deer hunting at moderate ranges inside 300 yards; its synthetic stock and simpler bedding will not provide the same long-term consistency or resistance to environmental shift as the HS Precision stock. The Howa is better for the shooter who demands quantifiable mechanical advantage for long-range work and is willing to pay for it, while the Stevens is better as a durable, reliable 'knockabout' hunting tool where ultimate precision is secondary to cost and carry weight. You can see the Stevens platform here.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.8 lbs empty, with an overall length of 43.5 inches before optics installation. The specific 24-inch barrel length (a common standard for this model's configuration) contributes significantly to the overall length and weight, providing a full powder burn for the 7mm Rem Mag cartridge and a longer sight radius for irons, though most will use optics. With a typical riflescope, rings, and a loaded magazine, expect total system weight to approach 9.5 to 10.2 lbs—manageable for stand hunting, but you'll feel it after a full day of mountain carry.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for the recoil-sensitive, the budget-constrained hunter seeking a first deer rifle, or anyone needing a compact, ultralight mountain rifle. The 7mm Remington Magnum generates ~20 ft-lbs of recoil energy in this weight platform, which is stout and requires proper technique—it is not a forgiving 'plinker.' At just over $1,000, it occupies a middle-ground price point that excludes true budget buyers, yet doesn't reach the custom-level features of a $2,500+ rifle. If your primary use is whitetail deer in dense woods under 100 yards, you're paying for capability and rigidity you'll never use; a more nimble rifle like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win would be a more suitable tool for that specific job.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one factory-installed 3-round steel detachable magazine, giving the standard 3+1 capacity, with the bolt closed on an empty chamber. Howa typically includes no other accessories—no optic, mount, sling, or tools. This is critical: you must budget an additional $400–$2,000 for a quality scope and mounting system capable of handling the cartridge's potential; putting a $150 scope on this rifle defeats its entire purpose. Expect a one-piece Weaver-style base to be pre-drilled and tapped on the receiver, requiring specific rings or a one-piece mount.
Is the Howa M1500 HS Precision worth it at $1038.99?
Yes, for its intended user, it offers demonstrable mechanical value that cheaper rifles cannot match. The investment is justified by the HS Precision stock alone: its aluminum bedding block, laminated Kevlar/fiberglass/carbon fiber construction, and hand-finishing represent a $300–$500 upgrade over a standard injection-molded stock, directly impacting long-term bedding consistency and accuracy retention. When you factor in the proven Howa 1500 action (a derivative of the Sako pattern) and the adjustable two-stage trigger, you're getting a rifle system that, mechanically, is ready for serious use without immediate modification—something you cannot say about rifles in the $500–$700 class.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- HS Precision stock with full-length aluminum bedding block provides consistent, rigid mechanical interface vs. free-floated setups.
- Two-stage HACT trigger is adjustable from 3-4 lbs down to ~2.2 lbs — offering a clean, predictable break over a single-stage design.
- Overall 43.5" length with 24" barrel fully utilizes 7mm Rem Mag powder capacity for optimal ballistics.
- 1:9.5" rifling twist stabilizes a wide range of bullet weights from 140-grain to 175-grain hunting projectiles.
Trade-offs
- 7.8 lb unloaded weight is noticeable — fully kitted with scope and sling pushes it to over 9.5 lbs, a burden for extended mountain stalks.
- Blued/black metal finish offers only moderate corrosion resistance compared to modern Melonite, Cerakote, or stainless steel options.
- Fixed stock design lacks adjustability for length of pull or comb height, limiting custom fit compared to chassis systems.
- No muzzle threading — suppressor or muzzle brake installation is a mandatory aftermarket gunsmithing service.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 682146389128 |
| manufacturer | Howa |
| manufacturer part number | HHS63702 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 7mm Remington Magnum |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| safety | Three-Position |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with other Howa 1500 parts and accessories?
- Yes, this barreled action uses the standard Howa 1500 footprint. Most aftermarket triggers, bottom metal, and scope bases designated for the Howa 1500 (like those from EGW or Warne) will fit, but the proprietary HS Precision stock inlet is specific to this model, limiting direct stock swaps to other HS Precision variants.
- Does it have a threaded barrel for a suppressor?
- No, this specific configuration features a standard 24-inch sporter-contour barrel with a crowned muzzle, not threaded. Installing a threaded muzzle device would require a qualified gunsmith to cut, thread, and re-crown the barrel, typically adding $150-$200 and a 2-4 week turnaround time.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL dealer?
- For verified transactions, processing and ground shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically take 3-7 business days. The FFL must then complete the mandatory 4473 background check, which can add an additional 0-3 business days, depending on state law and NICS results.
- Does this rifle come with a factory accuracy guarantee?
- Howa does not publish a specific sub-MOA guarantee for this model, but the bedding system and barrel are built to that standard. Most independent test data shows 5-shot groups averaging 0.75 - 1.25 MOA with quality factory ammunition, which is more than sufficient for its intended long-range hunting role.
- Is the 3+1 magazine capacity legal for hunting in my state?
- For centerfire rifle hunting, a 4-round total capacity (3+1) is legal in all 50 states. However, you must verify your specific state's hunting regulations regarding magazine capacity; some states like Colorado have restrictions for certain game units. Always consult your state's Department of Natural Resources publication directly.