I think Howa would benefit from investing in a quality injection molded stock that is made specifically for them, similar to what Weatherby has done with the Vanguard. The HS Precision models are awfully expensive for what you get (a Howa barreled action and a composite stock). The Hogue is fine for hunting, but Howa could do much better even as far as injection molded synthetic stocks go.
I don’t mind the weight of the Howa/Vanguard. I think an Alpine Mountain Rifle would be cool to have for fun, but like the HS Precision it was expensive and not even stainless steel. Overall I think I shoot better with a little more weight anyway. I never minded carrying my Vanguard with a padded sling.
