Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Hunting Rifles Howa 1500

Sportsman's Warehouse has the Howa 1500 Hogue stocked rifle for $399. I am thinking about getting one in .308 or 7-08.
They feel pretty good for a basic, no frills hunting rifle. the specs say 7.8 lbs so not real light but doable.

So what experiences do you have with Howa1500?

I already have a Leupold 3x9 to sit on top. Recommend bases or a rail?

Thanks in advance.