Thread: Howa 1500 bolt knob options

I am finding the standard bolt knob has the potential for an upgrade. What's everyone using for this? Short of sending it to the gunsmiths, how's people finding the clamp-on after market bolt knobs working for them?

Interesting question. A bolt knob extension may be of use if one is using their finger and thumb to operate the bolt.

On my Howa.308 s/steel varmint, I use the palm of my hand to operate the bolt without any problems.

I feel an extension may catch on clothing and indeed may stick out like dogs balls.

However that is simply my opinion and I look forward to knowing what is available and the experience of others.

Try a bunnings or mitre 10 $2 rubber slip on chair leg pad similar to those you see on the end of walking sticks.

Used the type that screw together but they always came loose and irritated me. Since I started fitting the type you have to cut threading onto the bolt I've never looked back.

Pro's: cycling the bolt is a dream

Cons: the width of the rifle increased.

Did'nt enjoy these:


Love these:


I have not tried the new type available for Howa, but from what the users are saying they work great and does not loosen like the older type.

I haven’t got my bolt knob yet (ordering a Badger Ord. one from Brownells) but I threaded my handle in 5/16-24 the DIY way, using files and a die set. Came out really good, as I couldn’t find a gunsmith that would do it... maybe in the current season they are all bogged down with making prohibited firearms legal... but it worked for me.

I wasn’t interested in a clamp on version as I wanted something strong and solid. It’ll be a competition rifle rather than hunting though.

Very nice work. I don't mind the extra width as its already in a chassis therefore carrying and weight considerations are secondary. I like the KRG bolt knob for the Rem 700, unfortunately they don't do one for the Howa yet. Therefore considering the pros and cons of each type of bolt knob. Fast cycling is definitely paramount for me.
@Oli1102 - if you don't mind me asking, where did you buy the cutting die?

Got the factory howa clamp on knob and it works well. Personally like it better than the krg clamp on remington knob...not as bulky. Also fitted a few badger ordanace and pt&g knobs the same way as oli1102 has done. Any engineering supply store should be able to get the die for you. I got mine as part of a set off trademe.

I just used the 5/16-24 the from an imperial tap and die set that I have. You can buy a set at an engineering store or if you have any machinist that mates you might be able to borrow one?

OLI, That looks great. I normally just chuck the bolts I have to do for customers in the lathe and let it rip. Nothing wrong with your end result though.

Cheers man! I would have preferred to turn it but didn’t have a jig to get the handle running true to the large rotation, so I went stuff it... It’ll take longer but the end result will still be good. I cold blued the handle for now, but will be getting the bolt cerakoted once I have had it fluted.

I had Gunworks thread mine and fit a 23mm DIA alloy ball like an AI.

It’s awesome

@NZShoota and @Oli1102 - Thanks for the tips. I've a rubber oversized Tikka knob that does a fairly good interim job.
@300_BLK - The accuracy knob clone is definitely a nice addition. I have half a mind of shaping steel putty over mine and be done once and for all.

I had gunworks tell me they didnt like threading the stainless bolts due to potential breakage. I did a diy with a hard foam and some heat-shrink. Lasted one hunt due to shit foam, but has potential.