I was at a large stocking dealer last week and they had several Howa Mini Actions in 223 & 204 with all three barrels. The rifles are lighter than I expected and I'd be surprised if their is much difference compared to the 6.5 Grendel model. I liked the 20" heavy barrel the best and even got to see the Howa side by side next to a CZ 527 7.62 X 39 carbine. The Howa rifles I saw had a matte finish compared to the polished blue and wood stock on the CZ.
I didn't pay enough attention to the Howa finish but it appeared the Howa had a matte blue finish. Considering how I would use the Howa I would prefer a Nitride QPQ type finish. My main criticism is the location of the magazine release on the Mini Action.
I didn't pay enough attention to the Howa finish but it appeared the Howa had a matte blue finish. Considering how I would use the Howa I would prefer a Nitride QPQ type finish. My main criticism is the location of the magazine release on the Mini Action.