Last updated on November 10th, 2025
The Howa 1500 is a bolt action rifle series that are made in Japan since 1979. They have earned a reputation here in Aus for being reliable, accurate and straightforward to maintain. The design uses a Mauser style action with a 90 degree bolt lift and a smooth push feed extractor. This makes it easy to cycle while keeping the mechanism simple to clean. The 1500 is used by hunters, target shooters and even as a base for custom rifle builds.
I’m lucky that one of my mates has a few different Howa’s so I have spent alot of time with them at the range and hunting. In Australia, the 1500 series is available in three action lengths, each matched to specific cartridges.
- Mini Action: .223 Remington, 7.62×39, 6.5 Grendel
- Short Action: .204 Ruger, .22-250, .223 Remington, .243 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5×55 Swedish, .25-06, .270 Winchester, .308 Winchester
- Long Action: .30-06 Springfield, 7mm Remington Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, .338 Winchester Magnum, .375 Ruger
Barrel options include sporter and varmint profiles in different lengths. Sporter barrels are lighter and easier to carry in the field, while varmint barrels handle heat better during long shooting sessions. Most models come with an internal box mag that holds three to five rounds depending on the model. Detachable magazine kits in five or ten round capacities are also available. Heavy barrel and chassis versions are also sold for long range or precision work.
The trigger is the Howa Actuator Controlled Trigger (HACT), a two stage unit usually set at about three pounds from the factory. From using my mates setup, it has a clean break and minimal creep. The three position safety allows you to fire, unload while on safe, or lock the bolt completely, which is useful for carrying in the field.
Range Essentials
5.11 Rush 24
Pelican iM3100
Build quality is solid. Overall the rifle is well made and feels well put together when cycling the action. Stocks range from Hogue overmoulded synthetics for grip in all weather to precision composite and chassis systems. Fit and finish are consistent with what you expect from Japanese manufacturing.
When compared with rifles like the Remington 700 or Tikka T3, the Howa often delivers similar performance and durability at a lower cost. It might not be as well built as the Tikka but it’s my goto backup brand for new shooters if Tikka is out of the price range. For hunters, target shooters, or anyone wanting a dependable action for a custom build, the Howa 1500 has a good track record in Aus.
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