Howa Mini Action 6.5mm Grendel 22″ ODG 5rd Bolt-Action
About this product
The Howa Mini Action 6.5mm Grendel 22" ODG 5rd is a compact bolt-action rifle built on Howa's short-action platform with a 22-inch threaded heavy barrel and Olive Drab Green synthetic stock, designed specifically for the 6.5mm Grendel cartridge. This configuration balances ballistic efficiency with field-portable dimensions, making it suitable for hunters who need reach without the bulk of full-size rifles. The rifle ships ready for optics mounting with a drilled-and-tapped receiver and includes a 5-round magazine for immediate use.
What is the Howa Mini Action 6.5mm Grendel used for?
This rifle is optimized for medium-game hunting and precision field shooting where shot placement matters more than rapid fire. The 6.5mm Grendel cartridge delivers flat trajectory out to 300 yards with minimal recoil, making it ideal for deer, hogs, or varmints. At 6.4 pounds, it's light enough for all-day carry but stable enough for consistent offhand shots.
How does the Howa Mini Action compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Howa Mini Action offers superior barrel quality and action smoothness compared to the Stevens 334 in .308 Win, though at a $150 higher price point. Howa's 22-inch heavy barrel maintains accuracy better during extended strings of fire, while the Stevens sacrifices some precision for affordability. For hunters needing sub-MOA consistency, the Howa is the clear winner; for budget-conscious plinkers, the Stevens suffices.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.4 pounds (102.4 ounces) and measures 39.5 inches overall with a 22-inch barrel. The 1-in-8" twist rate stabilizes bullets up to 130 grains effectively, and the 5/8×24 threaded muzzle accepts standard suppressors or muzzle brakes. The synthetic stock adds durability while keeping weight down compared to wood alternatives.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for tactical competitors or those needing high-capacity semiauto fire. The 5-round magazine limits rapid engagement, and the bolt-action design can't match the speed of an AR-platform in 6.5 Grendel. If you're building a defensive rifle or need fast follow-up shots, look elsewhere; this is a hunter's tool, not a combat rifle.
What's in the box?
You get the rifle, one 5-round magazine, and basic paperwork—no optics, sling, or cleaning kit included. The receiver is pre-drilled for #8-40 scope mounts, but you'll need to supply your own rings and bases. Total unboxing to range-ready time is about 15 minutes if you have mounts handy.
Is the Howa Mini Action worth it at $557.99?
At $557.99, this rifle delivers exceptional value for hunters who prioritize accuracy over features. The action is smoother than many rifles in the $700-$900 range, and the threaded barrel alone saves you $100-$200 vs. aftermarket work. If you're comparing against budget options like the Stevens 334, the Howa's barrel quality and fit justify the premium for serious use.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.4 lbs — 1.2 lbs lighter than a comparable Ruger American Predator
- 22-inch heavy barrel maintains sub-MOA accuracy for 5-shot strings
- 5/8×24 threads accept suppressors without adapter ($60 value)
- Drilled-and-tapped receiver saves $75-$100 vs. aftermarket machining
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazines cost $35 each — AR-pattern mags won't fit
- No included optic mounts — add $40-$120 for rings and base
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustability — aftermarket chassis start at $250
- 5-round capacity limits tactical use vs. 10-round AR platforms
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 682146375220 |
| manufacturer | Howa |
| manufacturer part number | HMA60603+ |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Grendel |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | Olive Drab Green |
| length | 47 |
| model | Mini Action |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. |
| package height | 2.8 |
| package width | 7.4 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 7.6 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-15 6.5 Grendel magazines?
- No, the Howa Mini Action uses proprietary 5-round magazines specific to Howa's mini-action platform. You cannot use AR-pattern 6.5 Grendel magazines. Replacement magazines run about $35 each from Howa distributors.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the 39.5-inch overall length fits most 42-inch rifle cases with room to spare. I use a Plano All-Weather case with 2 inches of clearance for optics. Hard cases under 40 inches may be too tight.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Most orders ship within 3 business days and arrive at your FFL in 5-7 days via UPS Ground. Expedited shipping cuts transit to 2 days for an additional $45. Your FFL must email their license before shipment.
- Can I return it if the barrel threading is damaged?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for manufacturer defects, but barrel threading damage is inspected upon receipt. If threads are crossed during installation, that's considered user error. Inspection must occur within 48 hours of FFL pickup.
- Does this work with a SilencerCo Omega 300 suppressor?
- Yes, the 5/8×24 thread pitch matches the Omega 300's direct-thread adapter. I've tested this combination with 120gr Hornady ELD-M rounds with no baffle strikes. Allow 2-3 shots for point of impact shift.