HOWA Mini Action 7.62×39 Bolt-Action Rifle 5rd
About this product
What is the HOWA Mini Action 7.62×39 Bolt-Action Rifle 5rd? It is a short-stroke bolt-action carbine chambered in 7.62×39mm that weighs just 6.4 pounds empty and measures 39.5 inches overall. This isn't a repurposed long-action chassis with a barrel chop – it's a dedicated platform engineered around the 7.62×39 cartridge for optimal performance without the wasted space or excess weight found in adapted designs. The heavy threaded barrel with a 5/8x24 pattern and an HTI-style synthetic stock make this a suppressor-ready, no-frills field rifle out of the box.
What is the HOWA Mini Action 7.62×39 used for?
This rifle is designed for sub-200 yard engagements where a compact, reliable bolt-action is preferable to a semi-auto. Its 7.62×39 chambering offers ballistically efficient performance on medium game like whitetail deer or for tactical training courses without the muzzle blast and magazine capacity concerns of an AR platform. The 5-round detachable magazine keeps the profile slim for brush hunting, and the threaded muzzle accepts a suppressor or compensator for reduced noise or recoil management.
How does the HOWA Mini Action compare to the Stevens 334?
The HOWA Mini Action is a purpose-built short-action system, whereas the Stevens 334 is a full-length action adapted for intermediate cartridges. The HOWA's 6.4 lb weight is nearly a full pound lighter than the 7.3 lb Stevens 334 in .308 Win, making it significantly handier for all-day carry. The HOWA's dedicated 7.62×39 chamber provides more reliable feeding and consistent headspacing with steel-case ammunition compared to the .308 Win Stevens, which is better suited for longer-range precision with premium brass.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.4 pounds unloaded and measures 39.5 inches from muzzle to buttstock. The barrel is a heavy-contour profile, threaded 5/8x24 at the muzzle, contributing to the rifle's 20-inch overall barrel length. This weight distribution keeps the center of gravity manageable for off-hand shooting while the compact overall length makes it easy to maneuver from a vehicle or in dense cover.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for long-range precision shooters needing sub-MOA accuracy past 300 yards or for those who prioritize high-volume fire. The 7.62×39 cartridge loses significant energy beyond 250 yards, and the bolt-action design limits follow-up shot speed compared to a semi-auto like an AK-pattern rifle. If your primary use involves engaging multiple targets quickly at close quarters, a platform like the Stevens 334 in a faster-handling configuration might be a better fit.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with the synthetic stock installed, one 5-round detachable magazine, and the owner's manual. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped with a #6-48 thread pattern for scope base installation, but no mounting hardware is included. The box lacks any additional accessories like scope rings or a chamber flag, so budget for those separately if you don't already have them.
Is the HOWA Mini Action worth it at $582.99?
At just under $600, the HOWA Mini Action delivers exceptional value for a specialized tool that outperforms more expensive, generic alternatives in its intended role. You're paying for a dedicated short-action system, not a compromised long-action design, with features like a threaded heavy barrel that would cost $200+ to add aftermarket. For hunters and shooters who understand the ballistic limitations of 7.62×39 but want a compact, suppressor-ready bolt gun, this is one of the most cost-effective options on the market.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.4 lbs – nearly a pound lighter than comparable Stevens 334 models
- 5/8x24 threaded muzzle ready for suppressors without adapter
- Dedicated short-action design for reliable 7.62×39 feeding
- 20-inch heavy barrel maintains accuracy through multiple rapid-fire strings
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazine design limits aftermarket options – replacements cost $45-60 each
- No iron sights included – requires $100-300 optics investment to be functional
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustable cheek riser or length of pull spacers
- 5-round magazine capacity may limit tactical applications compared to 10-round alternatives
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 682146390001 |
| manufacturer | Howa |
| manufacturer part number | HMA70723+ |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 7.62 x 39mm |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | Olive Drab Green |
| model | Mini Action |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. |
| package height | 4.1 |
| package width | 10.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 7.95 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AK-47 magazines?
- No, it uses a proprietary Howa-designed 5-round detachable magazine. The magazine well is specifically engineered for this platform and will not accept standard AK-pattern magazines. The magazine release is a push-button design located just behind the magazine well.
- Does the threaded barrel accept a standard 7.62 suppressor?
- Yes, the 5/8x24 thread pattern is the standard for .30 caliber suppressors in the US market. It will directly thread onto most popular suppressors like the SilencerCo Omega 300 or Dead Air Sandman-S without requiring an adapter. The threads are cut cleanly and protected by a cap.
- Is the receiver drilled for a Picatinny rail?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped with a #6-48 thread pattern, which is the industry standard for scope bases. You will need to purchase a separate Picatinny rail or scope base that matches the Howa Mini Action footprint. The holes are spaced 6.5 inches apart center-to-center.
- How long does shipping take for firearms?
- Firearms typically ship within 2-3 business days after we receive a copy of your FFL dealer's license. Transit time depends on your location and carrier, but most shipments arrive at your selected FFL within 5-7 business days. You will receive tracking information once the item ships.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Yes, we offer a 30-day return policy for manufacturing defects or mechanical failures. The firearm must be returned in its original condition with all paperwork, and you must contact us within 14 days of receipt to initiate the return process. Returns for firearms require coordination with your FFL for proper shipment.