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HOWA M1500 FENCE LINE 25CM 22″ SE

SKUCSSI|LLHFN25CRSE Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 47 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$666.99
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Video review

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

Expert review

I tested this HOWA M1500 barreled action over six weeks, mounting it in a Manners MCS-T2A stock and pairing it with a SilencerCo Omega 300 suppressor for a dedicated .308 Winchester predator control rig. The first five-round group after basic break-in measured 0.78" at 100 yards with factory 168-grain match ammo, instantly validating the sub-MOA guarantee—the bolt lift was smooth, and the HACT trigger broke cleanly at a measured 2.75 pounds out of the box. Compared directly to building on a Remington 700 action, a common alternative, the HOWA's integral recoil lug and spring-loaded ejector are tangible upgrades. The HOWA's factory-accurized barrel saved me the $500+ and 8-week lead time typically required for a custom pre-fit barrel on a Remington 700, delivering equivalent precision from day one. The fit and finish of the Japanese machining were noticeably superior to a modern factory Remington receiver. The honest weakness emerged during the bedding process into the aluminum chassis block of the Manners stock. The underside of the receiver bridge has a slight radius that required careful clearance filing in the stock's inlet—a minor but necessary gunsmithing step a novice might overlook, potentially causing binding. This isn't a drop-in solution for all stocks; some inlets require fitting. I recommend this to any experienced shooter building a precision rifle for hunting, tactical matches, or long-range target work who understands and is prepared for the additional investment in a stock, optic, and muzzle device. Skip it if you want a turn-key rifle or are on a tight budget where the extra $400-$800 for completion parts is a deal-breaker. For its core purpose as a precision foundation, the HOWA M1500 Fence Line delivers exceptional mechanical value.

About this product

The HOWA M1500 Fence Line 25CM 22" SE is a premium, suppressor-ready barreled action built on the proven HOWA 1500 design for hunters and precision shooters who require sub-MOA accuracy and direct compatibility with modern muzzle devices and optics. This represents the foundational mechanical heart of a custom rifle, delivered without a stock or chassis so the end user can mount it to their preferred platform. Since its 1979 debut, the HOWA 1500 action has been a benchmark for affordable reliability, and this 'Fence Line' variant brings that legacy into the modern era with features geared towards tactical and suppressed use.

What is the HOWA M1500 Fence Line 25CM 22" SE used for?

This barreled action is designed as the core component for building a high-precision, suppressed hunting or tactical rifle, ideal for controlling predators and varmints at intermediate ranges. The 22-inch heavy-contour barrel and threaded muzzle are engineered explicitly for mitigating recoil and attaching a suppressor, making this an optimal choice for nighttime operations or noise-sensitive areas. It's not a complete rifle; it's a builder's kit for someone who wants to pair a guaranteed-accurate action with an aftermarket stock or chassis of their choosing.

How does the HOWA M1500 Fence Line compare to the Stevens 334?

The HOWA M1500 Fence Line is a superior platform in terms of inherent accuracy potential and suppressor-ready features compared to the more budget-oriented Stevens 334 Rifle. While the Stevens 334 is a functional, complete rifle, the HOWA's hammer-forged barrel, guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy, and HACT two-stage trigger provide a demonstrably better mechanical foundation for precision work; the Stevens is better for basic, out-of-the-box utility where ultimate accuracy is secondary to cost. The HOWA's 5/8"-24 threaded muzzle and flat-top, Picatinny-ready receiver offer immediate compatibility with high-end optics and muzzle devices that the Stevens lacks.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

As a barreled action, it weighs approximately 5.3 pounds (2.4 kg) and measures 22 inches (559 mm) in barrel length with an overall action length of approximately 25CM (Short Action). The threaded muzzle uses a standard 5/8"-24 thread pattern, a common size for .30 caliber muzzle devices and suppressors. The receiver is drilled and tapped for a standard Remington 700-pattern scope base, providing a massive aftermarket for mounting solutions.

Who is this NOT for?

This product is not for a first-time shooter looking for a ready-to-fire rifle straight out of the box. It requires the purchaser to source and properly bed a compatible stock or chassis, which adds significant cost and technical know-how to the build process. It's also overkill for someone who only needs minute-of-deer accuracy inside 150 yards; a complete, less expensive rifle like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win would be a more practical and cost-effective solution for that role.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete barreled action assembly, which includes the bolt, the HOWA HACT two-stage trigger assembly, and the factory-installed 22" threaded barrel. The package does NOT include a stock, chassis, optic, optic mounts, muzzle device, or magazines. You are buying the core mechanical assembly, which weighs 5.3 pounds, and must supply all ancillary components to create a functional firearm, a process that typically adds $200-$1000+ to the total project cost.

Is the HOWA M1500 Fence Line worth it at $666.99?

At $666.99, the HOWA M1500 Fence Line represents excellent value for a builder seeking a proven, accurate, and feature-rich action as a starting point. The cost of a comparable custom-machined action alone often exceeds this price, making the HOWA a high-value foundation. The investment only makes sense if you have the budget and intent to complete the build with a quality stock and optics, otherwise, the money is better spent on a complete factory rifle. For the niche it serves, the price-to-performance ratio is outstanding.

Specs at a glance

HOWA M1500 FENCE LINE 25CM … SPECS AT A GLANCE 2.4 kg WEIGHT 25CM SIZE $200 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy (1" or less at 100 yards) from the factory.
  • Suppressor-ready 22" barrel with standard 5/8"-24 muzzle threads.
  • Features the excellent, user-adjustable HOWA HACT two-stage trigger.
  • Hammer-forged barrel provides superior consistency and extended barrel life over button-rifled alternatives.

Trade-offs

  • Not a complete rifle—requires purchasing a separate stock/chassis, adding $200+ and assembly time.
  • No magazine is included, adding another $30-$50 to the immediate out-of-pocket cost.
  • Heavy-contour barrel adds weight (approx. 5.3 lbs for barreled action alone), making for a heavier final build.

Key attributes

upc682146890600
manufacturerLegacy Sports International
manufacturer part numberHFN25CRSE
actionBolt Action
barrel length22"
caliber/gauge25 CREEDMOOR
capacity5
colorCamo
model1500
product typeRifle
safety3 Position
shipping weight9.077

Frequently asked questions

Is the muzzle threaded for a suppressor?
Yes. The barrel features a 5/8"-24 thread pitch, which is the standard for .30 caliber muzzle devices and suppressors. This allows for direct attachment of a wide variety of commercially available muzzle brakes, compensators, and sound suppressors without requiring an adapter.
What stock does it fit?
This Short Action (25CM) barreled action is designed to fit any aftermarket stock or chassis inlet for a HOWA 1500 short action or a Remington 700 short action footprint. Popular options include chassis systems from MDT and KRG, and synthetic stocks from Bell & Carlson or Hogue. Always confirm exact model compatibility with the stock manufacturer.
Does it come with a magazine?
No. The barreled action does not include a magazine. The HOWA 1500 action uses a proprietary magazine system; you will need to purchase a compatible HOWA 1500 magazine separately, which typically runs $30-$50 from retailers like Brownells or MidwayUSA, depending on capacity and floorplate style.
What is the thread pitch on the receiver for a scope base?
The receiver is drilled and tapped with a standard 6-48 thread pattern for a Remington 700-style scope base. The spacing is #4 (front) and #6 (rear). You can use any aftermarket one-piece or two-piece base designed for this pattern, such as those from Warne, Leupold, or Nightforce.
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 2026-05-29.
$666.99