For decades, the Japanese-manufactured Howa M1500 bolt-action has been the basis of everything from budget, entry-level rifles to the highest-end customs. Evolving over the years to add contemporary features, they remain some of the best value for the money bolt-actions on the market. Currently imported by Legacy Sports International, new for 2026, the company is introducing two new M1500 series, as well as a new chambering.
All contemporary Howa actions feature a 90-degree bolt throw with dual locking lugs, a spring-loaded M16-style extractor and toolless firing pin removal. The machined receiver has an integral front barrel lug, and the bolt is forged. A three-position safety allows for locking the bolt closed or being able to unload while on safe. All M1500 rifles have cold hammer-forged barrels, along with a Howa Actuator Controlled Trigger (HACT) two-stage match-grade trigger.
The Fence Line series “embodies uncompromised value, precision and versatility” that is designed as “a reliable partner developed for every terrain and every pursuit.” The rifles are available in mini, short and long action sizes in 20 different chamberings matched with the appropriate barrel length, between 16.25 and 24 inches.
All Fence Line models have threaded muzzles and come with a muzzle brake installed. Bolt and trigger guards have a black finish and actions, and barrels are finished in either Tungsten or Burnt Bronze Cerakote. Their synthetic stocks are available with a Scorched Earth, Gray Light or Prairie Reaper finish. Standard actions use an internal box magazine with a hinged floorplate, while mini-action models have a detachable magazine. They have MSRPs between $729 and $749.
In 2022, Howa introduced its first Superlite model. The new Superlite Gen 2 uses a new uniquely sized action that splits the difference between Howa’s micro-action and its standard short-action, scaled perfectly to cartridges like .243 Win., 25 Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-08 Rem, and .308 Win, with a flush-mounted detachable magazine.
Its metal parts are blued, and its lightweight profile barrel has its muzzle threaded 1/2x28 TPI. The Superlite Gen 2 is available in three configurations. With either a 20-inch (4.9 pounds) or 16.25-inch (4.2 pounds) barrel, it comes in an HS Precision Sporter stock. The stock is made of fiberglass, Kevlar, carbon fiber and a proprietary poly fill, with an action-length aluminum bedding block.
The guns are available with a black webbing pattern over either a black-, gray-, green- or tan-finished stock. It is also available with a 20-inch barrel and a walnut stock. The Superlite Gen 2 is also offered with a walnut stock and an overall weight of 5 pounds, 9 ounces. They have an MSRP of $1,169.
Finally, Howa has introduced the new do-it-all 25 Creedmoor chambering in multiple models, including the standard M1500, Fence Line, Superlite and Super Deluxe.
For more information on Howa’s new bolt-action models, see the company’s website.
