HOWA M1500 Super Lite Gen2 .243 Win 20in Threaded Barrel
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About this product
What is the HOWA M1500 Super Lite Gen2 .243 Win 20in Threaded Barrel? It's a 6.7-pound, bolt-action rifle designed for varmint hunting and precision field shooting, built around a reduced short action and equipped for suppressors.
What is the HOWA M1500 Super Lite Gen2 used for?
This rifle is built for varmint hunting at ranges up to 300 yards and serving as a lightweight, threaded platform for suppressor or muzzle brake testing. The 1-in-10-inch twist barrel stabilizes lighter .243 projectiles ideally for predators like coyotes, while the 20-inch barrel length strikes a balance between velocity and maneuverability in blind or tree stand setups.
How does the HOWA M1500 Super Lite Gen2 compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The HOWA M1500 is a better choice for disciplined precision work and suppressor use, while the Stevens 334 is more cost-effective for simple hunting needs. The HOWA's two-stage match trigger, average pull weight of 2.5 pounds out of the box, and 1/2×28 threaded muzzle ready for NFA devices provide a tangible advantage for technical shooting, whereas the Stevens 334's simpler trigger and non-threaded barrel make it a straightforward, budget-friendly option like other Stevens models — our editorial take.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.7 pounds (108.9 ounces) and measures 39 inches in overall length. The 20-inch barrel contributes significantly to the handling feel, with a 1.225-inch diameter at the muzzle end where the 1/2×28 threads are cut, providing a solid shoulder for mounting devices. This makes it approximately 11 inches shorter and 2 pounds lighter than many traditional hunting rifles with 24-inch barrels.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for shooters seeking a high-capacity, fast-firing platform or those needing a dedicated long-range rig for bullets heavier than 105 grains. The flush-fit detachable magazine holds only 3 rounds, requiring frequent reloads during prairie dog town sessions, and the .243 Winchester cartridge performance drops off noticeably past 400 yards compared to 6.5 Creedmoor. For pure volume shooting, consider an AR-15 or the semi-automatic rifle.
What's in the box?
You'll receive the barreled action seated in the HS Precision stock, one 3-round AICS-pattern detachable magazine, and a thread protector. No optic bases, rings, sling swivels, or case are included, which adds approximately $70-$150 to the initial setup cost for proper mounting hardware and protection.
Is the HOWA M1500 Super Lite Gen2 worth it at $1064.99?
At $1064.99, this rifle is worth the price for hunters who require a threaded, precision-capable platform and understand the cost of a quality two-stage trigger system. For comparison, adding a comparable aftermarket trigger and having a barrel threaded by a competent gunsmith could easily add $350 to a base rifle, making the HOWA's factory integration a value proposition for suppressor owners and technical shooters.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.7 lb — over 1.5 lb lighter than many .308 hunting rifles
- Factory-threaded 20-inch barrel with 1/2×28 NFA pattern — saves $150+ gunsmith work
- Two-stage match trigger with adjustable pull weight from 2.5 to 4 pounds
Trade-offs
- Limited 3+1 round capacity — requires frequent reloads in varmint fields
- No optic bases or rings included — adds $40-120 to initial setup
- HS Precision stock lacks adjustable cheek piece — requires aftermarket pad for high-mount optics
Key attributes
| upc | 682146889130 |
| manufacturer | Howa |
| manufacturer part number | HHSSL243GRY |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| caliber/gauge | .243 Winchester |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 20" |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| shipping weight | 6.7 |
| product type | Rifle |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the threaded barrel compatible with SilencerCo suppressors?
- Yes, the 1/2×28 threaded muzzle is the standard pattern for .22 caliber suppressors and many .30 caliber models from SilencerCo like the Harvester Evo. Always confirm with the suppressor manufacturer's manual, but this thread pitch works with direct-thread adapters from most major brands including Dead Air and Rugged.
- Does this rifle come with scope bases installed?
- No, the receiver is drilled and tapped for #6-48 screws but ships without bases. You'll need to purchase separate bases; HOWA uses the same hole pattern as Remington 700 short-action bases, so options from Warne, Talley, or Leupold mount in about 15 minutes with proper torque.
- Can I use 5-round magazines with this rifle?
- Yes, it accepts AICS-pattern bottom metal and magazines. The factory flush-fit magazine holds 3 rounds, but AICS 5-round and 10-round metal magazines from companies like Accurate-Mag or MDT will function, though they will protrude below the stock line.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing and shipping typically take 3-5 business days from order verification. Transit time depends on your location relative to our warehouse; expect 2-7 additional business days for ground transport via FedEx or UPS to your chosen FFL dealer.