Thread: Entry level rifle.

Originally Posted by GravelBen

So tell us what the Howa does better, I can't think of anything.

Why do people not like the Howa? Is it because it is not made in the US as that seems to be where most of the opinions originate. Heads up- if you want the best, it aint made in the US.

I dont know that I can say for certain the Howa or the Savage does better. I can say the Howa's are very accurate, well built and represent very good value for money. They are underrated for what they are. And for around $995 you get an accurate Stainless rifle with a scope rings that is already threaded for a suppressor and a hard case. For a new rifle that sets a very hard to beat standard.

Both have adjustable triggers, Savage just gave theirs a fancy name. I suspect the Savage will also be accurate but as most rifles will out perform the shooter, that becomes a bit of a non starter.

I do prefer the contained internal magazine over the new plastic removable ones. But I guess spares can be handy. Personally I like the way the Howa bolt can be disassembled easily for cleaning without tools. Also if you look at the Howa bolt, in the unlikely event of a case failure, the gasses are vented through the exhaust holes on the bottom of the bolt directing the gas straight down through the magazine well. On most other rifles they are directed out the side which sucks if you have a face nearby. (I will admit I do not know where the savage vents at this point)

Howa did let themsleves down with some of their stocks but I have seen worse stocks on many other rifles. Upgrade to something like a Boyds later if they want. If you want the best stock, best accuracy and best glass, then I can tell you it wont be any of the brands mentioned so far....The ones on the Howa do work well.

I am not a fan of the cheaper Nikkos, But I am very happy with the Diamond ones I own and the Nighteaters and I happily use them myself over the likes of Leupold. And you can sometimes get the Diamonds or Nighteaters in the package deal and not just their basic Mount master range. Nikko make some cheaper scopes, but they also make some very good ones. If you want a good scope without breaking the bank, then I could also send you towards Sightron as an alternative (And "no," I do not stock, sell or have anything to do with Sightron apart from having a few mates who use them.) Good optics will improve accuracy, but how much? For a new hunter ?

Howa made the Vanguards for Weatherby for many years (and I believe the Smith and Wesson 1500 is also a Howa with a rebadge)

(I did have one person tell me his Weatherby Vanguard was much better than any Howa and it was a hoot when he pointed out all the reasons why- You should have seen his face when he found out his Vanguard was the same rifle, just a few cosmetic changes and a few hundy more expensive!!!!)