Just put this together for Mrs. Walter. It's about 3 lbs. lighter than her AR in 6mm ARC with the same scope.

The scope is a little further back than I like, but we'll see what she says.

Haven't been to the range yet, but maybe tomorrow.

'Stick is spot on about 22" barrel being muzzle heavy. A chop and regular bottom metal might be in the future after she wrings this out. We'll see.

Scope is an Athlon Helos 2-12 in Arken 30mm lightweight rings on aluminum Weaver bases.

Advertised weight for the bare rifle is 4 lb. 10 oz, and that seems right.

What's the internal length of the magazine?

Can't slide the scope?

38 oz scope/rings?

Looks somewhat familiar. Hint.



Said scope and mounting system,are easily sub 30 ounces. Hint.

The Chop do fhuqking wonders. Hint..........

Looks good. I believe mine will end up nearly identical as well.

Of there was a lighter scope with similar features, I’d get it but these scopes are bomb proof. I have six now.

Yeah, the numbers don’t add up, but 7 lbs with little recoil is still pretty attractive.

I wouldn’t go lighter on a crap scope. You know Why you don’t have a slightly lighter gold ring scope on it.

I think it’s 2.345”. I’m running Hornady 105s and 108s at 2.260.

I’ll probably check the chamber and find the kiss for a
108 this weekend.

All my current ammo is for her AR.

‘Stick says the Wayne York fixed bottom metal is lighter than the external mag set up and the COAL is longer.

Why they don’t make this with an internal mag and no floor plate is beyond me.

Reupold RULES. Hint. Fhuqking LAUGHING!



Wayne's World guts,help much. Hint.................

Waynes a legend around here. 40 minutes from my door step. Nice Rig

Not knocking the scope.
What’s a half pound among friends, anyway!

Stick what’s your preference for aftermarket stocks for the Mini?

I think he’s running the Stocky’s Stocks carbon fiber which comes from the factory on the lightweight minis.

Wayne does it very right. Hint..............

Anyone know how long the backorders for 6mm ARC actions are from Brownells?

I doubt that they know themselves. They come from Japan when they come.

Yup. I have a factory Carbon and a DIY with Wayne’s stock and guard and prefer the homemade one. Cost-wise, it’s a tossup.

Midwest Gun Works still had 6 Arc Carbons last time I looked.

If you don’t mind the camo version

I hear good thangs. Hint.............

I kinda dig the stickiness of it. I don’t care more/less for camo but it is tacky feeling.

Made me look....but I was disappointed...

Sorry bout that JM. Should’ve looked before I got your hopes up!

You are a MEAN Fhuqker! Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!............

Action screw tourque? Both 50 in-lbs or?

The OEM Dog Schit plastic bottom metal,is fhuqking tender. I'd go easy on TQ and call Wayne,for replacemen. Hint.............

I like the idea of the cz bottom metal too that takes the cz magazines. Haven’t really made my mind up. My mind is made up on ordering the Timney from Wayne though.

Now that I'm happy with my Wayne's World BM, (thanks again to 'Stick for guidance) I need to do something about the OEM stock. Budget always being a consideration, I'm eyeballing the Stocky's CF seconds, but not sure if the barrel channel is up to the job.

The barrel on my 300BO measures .855" 3¼ inches in front of the receiver and tapers to .755" to the muzzle of it's 16¼" barrel.

Anyone know what the barrel channel is like on the carbon fiber from Stocky's?

You may want to hold off just a bit on your decision. Chris@ Jefferson Outdoor is expecting his latest rendition of hinged floorplates back from the anodizing soon. The mag box on those is the same as his blind box, 2.450”. He’s run 140gr Match Burners in his Grendel and hit the rifling at 2.375.

The site doesn’t specifically mention the ARC yet, so I’d call before ordering to make certain you have an exit route on anything that doesn’t work out. From my contacts with him, I doubt there’d be a problem, but best to have that up front.

https://jeffersonoutdoor.com/

Thank you.

Interesting.
3 down.

except Dave's has no rust on the barrel, the action and the scope rings...
guess he hasn't washed out the chamber in the creek after shooting salmon for dinner...yet..

Shefire's HILARIOUSLY very WELL founded Insecurities,reminded me that Jefferson Guts & Mags are enroute,which will give her yet more to vicariously "live" for...the "lucky" kchunt. Hint. Congratulations?!?

R&D never ends. Hint.





Fhuqking LAUGHING!..............

What kinda COAL outta the CZ mags?

2.3 something or other in .223. No problem for my use. I wanted metal mags with good retention and reliable feeding. Got it.

A new improved mag latch that won’t require filing on some of the three-round mags is on the mail, sent free by Chris at J.O. Appreciate that. If I ever buy another Mini, J.O. stuff will certainly be on the possibles list for upgrades. With a theee-rounder in place, it looks pretty much like a rifle with a floorplate.



BTW, while futzing with the barrel channel on my Carbon Mini, I used the old bread bag fastener trick to increase clearance. Wasn’t quite thick enough to totally float the barrel, but it did make enough difference that I went ahead and sanded it out properly. Problem solved. However, the slight difference that piece of plastic made in the relationship between the magazine and the action resulted in the bolt often passing right over the top round instead of picking it up. If I pushed up on the mag, no problem, so it’s a narrow window. Once reassembled without the shim, feeding was fine again.

Thanks Pappy. Certainly like metal over plastic anytime I can get it.

I can't know,until they get here,but plan on hating them...just like all other things CZ. Hint.(grin)

DBM's are easily adjustable in ride height and I'd simply open feed lips up,to get more bolt nose on case heads. That's DBM 101,no matter the Maker. Hint............

It was worth a shot

I was going to jump on the band wagon, but I can wait a couple days for you to verify.

Same here

Worse comes to worse,I'll give it all to a pard,as several like the Mini Howie in 7.62x39 for Boat Guns. Sea Otters HATE it. Hint................(grin)

I figured as much. I’ve kinda half followed the Oregon Gunsmithing BM, kinda sounds like that is the way to fly to have it right. I do kinda like DBM options though for this one. The CTR is quite handy as such.

Any updates? I finally received my stock today. I dremeled it out where nothing was in a bind and may try to shoot it tomorrow. It needs bedded but I have a couple to do so I’ll get all that done at the same time.

I’m set on lever and it seems like most guys here are pleased with it. Curious if opinions have changed on bottom metal be it Wayne’s or magazines?

Yep. Hint................

Having a bit of experience with both the CZ magazine conversion trigger guard and also hinged floor plates in the Howa mini, I would say that if you only run factory ammo you would be fine with the CZ magazine option.
If on the other hand you handload longer C.O.A.L. to take advantage of better bullets than you really need to run one of the floor plate options that allow the longer bullet seating depths. Fortunately there are multiple options available to suit most people's needs.

Considering the price, a feller could afford both types if it made him happy. I like the CZ mags, but $150 ain’t much of a disincentive if I decided to run something long. Not sure what bullets will spin in a 1-8” .223 that won’t fit in a 2.3-something” magazine, and what use I would have for them here in the wooded East is another question.

No 6 Arc for me, I guess. Grandpa’s winding down these days. Got a nifty new pistol though!

You’d hate the 6 ARC Pappy.. 108’s at the same speed as 77’s from the 223 roughly…. I mean it would probably, barely have enough juice to pop one of them WV bucks…

With a tricked out 6.5 Mini on one hand, and a Fieldcraft 6CM on the other, I kinda have it surrounded. I’m 71, and have a fair number of rifles that are still unbloodied. Little doubt that I’d like one; Hell I like it now, even without one.

I was just messin, I knew you had it pretty well bracketed. It is a dandy little gun though. Fun as hell to shoot.

Ol’ Pappy’s a pretty easy target for joshin’, naive and literal-minded. Low-hanging fruit for certain!

I have been contemplating running some mild loads using my fearsome pile of 6mm bullets with H4895 in my Fieldcraft, 6ARC without the expense of a new rifle and easy on the barrel. The holdup, aside from laziness, is the lack of H4895. Saw a jug a few months ago and let it slip away. I have one broken jug, but am hoarding it for my .30/06.

I've considered doing the same to see how close I can get a 6.5 CM to a 6.5 Grendel. Curiosity was my main motivator....and time was my main source of demotivation.

My CZ disdain,remains exceptionally WELL fhuqking founded. Hint.





Cheap R&D and I knowed,that I knowed the answer and it's an easy pass. Hint.................

If you can't find any, take a look in cast bullet manuals and look at 260 Rem or 243 cast load data.

I've been doing this for years... try 4198 ( either, but I prefer IMR's ), or RL 7, or some of the faster bullets..

I shoot the Grendal, and also the 260s...I have two Creedmores, that I have never shot... picked up each one of them for $200 on close outs... hard to pass up a $200 rifle...never know when one might need a loaner, or you know someone deserving without the resources to pay for a rifle... I've given new rifles to 3 veterans over the last 24 months who fit the bill for deserving, need and not enough money...previously bought when on close out sales.

When loading a 6.5 Creedmore or 260 Remi to Grendal specs, not really much difference if at all, between loads for either caliber...
Blue Dot has also been an easily equivalent to make on either yielding Grendal velocity specs...
'

Like you said, you knew the answer before you clicked the order button.

Gotta admit though, it certainly looks a lot better…..

Metal has long been more soothin' to me,than plastic. Especially on a rifle's bottom. Hint.

With a modest re-spring on the latch and a latch trim,I reckon a guy could likely retain a CZ magazine in a Howie Mini Carbon Queen,for part of a day. Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!................

Chris sent me the new, shorter release for mine. I’ll install it next time I have it down for a scope swap.

I tend to chop latches,as a default,because POSITIVE retention is rather important to me. Hint.

I would be warmer/fuzzier if Wayne's BDL latch extended farther,to increase retention. Hint.................

Stick,
Splitting hairs I reckon but … ARC or Grendel in the mini? Caveat of factory fodder only. Kids; b tails out to 200.
Obliged.

The 6ARC by light years. Hint...............

Like you even had to ask AK!

So far none of the Hornady factory stuff has shot anything but great in the Carbon ARC. Alot to like about that little fella.

I was curious how yours is shooting. Finally got my stock from stockys last week but I haven’t shot it yet. The weather has either been too crappy to shoot or so pretty I’d rather ride horses with the family.

I like it so far Kaleb. I've just been monkeying around at 100 with it so far, but I can't find much to talk crap about. I put that honker of an Arken on it, so it's probably heavier than it has to be, but I kinda like the scope so far. I definitely understand the ideals of the 22 version of the same. The 6 ARC is a great cartridge in my eyes. Wished I'd gotten it in time for hunting season this past fall, but I think it'll get some use next year. I think I will monkey with the trigger and see if I can lighten it a touch, but as it comes, it's very shootable.

It'll definitely get some air time this year shooting steel though. It's too much fun to leave home. I will say I think a barrel chop is on order, just cause I have really liked the 20" CTR and I think the little Carbon gun will benefit from the same deal. Pretty handy little rifle to keep behind the seat of the truck.

Very good. I had this one chopped at 17” to allow for the suppressor. It does balance a pinch forward but totally fine. It’s light little and handy. I will replace the trigger not as much because it isn’t shootable but for my daughters. All they know are good triggers and I think it will be easier them swapping from rifle to rifle if all triggers are very similar.

I just received a 1-7” 223 Montana and will let them have at both and decide what they like the best.

If only the Howies were Stainless. Hint.............

How is yours grouping? Have you done anything to it?

The reason I ask is I want one in 6 ARC pretty bad but my 6.5 Grendel is gonna need some help to get it shooting. I've done nothing to it but with factory Hornady ammo it's shooting patterns instead of groups

I can't see anything but good out of this rifle D270. I have ran the 108 ELDs, 105 HPBT and 103 ELD in factory ammo through it. Nothing really crazy but this rifle has put 5 of the 108's and 105 HPBT into about an inch a piece, maybe a skosh less, with the 108's being a little better. The 103's are the worst so far but even 5 of those have gone maybe 1 1/4 or hair larger for 5. That's been the extent of my shooting. While it isn't quite one hole I am not worried about it shooting. I think as I get more rounds through it, it should get even better.

Great point about the trigger. What are you swapping them out to? Does the 3 POS safety still work with the trigger swap?


Agreed. They are standing on the dock watching the ship float in that regard. The plastic BM isn't all together very awesome either. Guess it works but I don't have to like it.

That's plenty accurate enough with the factory ammo especially.

My carbon 6.5 is shooting more like 1.5" with 123 elds and 3" with 123 sst, which of course I have over a case of.

I'm sure if I messed with the bedding/forend pressure I can get more out of it I just haven't done it yet

I am not sure why but the 6.5 Gren hasn't been great to me. I have a decent shooting AR but like yours its alot fussier than it should be, at least compared to the ARC AR and this Howa.

I dig this little 6 ARC Howa though.

I guess if yours continues to not run up to par, it's a solid donor for the 22 Gren or whatever iteration you want

All the Mini Grendels I've shot,have been fhuqking HAMMERS. Hell...I even saved one OEM barrel,which is something I never do. Hint.(grin)

How EXACTLY is your rifle configured? Stock,bottom metal,base,rings and glass? What ammo have you fed it? Hint.

Mine thrives on Lapooey brass,400's,Lever' and 120gr 'Burner Smooches. Hint.



Burris 2pc Extreme Tactical #410600 steel bases,Swiffer Low's and Illuminatti. Hint.






Barrel chopped to 19" and crowned with a RCBS brass chamfering tool,because it cracks me the fhuqk up. Wayne's World handle. Hint.





It is a Dirty WICKED Fhuqker. Hint...............

Stick

Rifle is factory carbon 6.5 mini, factory dbm.
Scope is a 6x SS, tally LW mounts (I know)

The only ammo has been Hornady factory, 2 kinds.

I don't even have dies for it.

Only thing I've done is pull the rifle apart and massage the trigger. I m positive it's assembled properly but bedding it couldn't hurt. It also has lots of forend pressure, but I've not seen a problem with that in light rifles before.

I cut corners in a lot of ways with it. I'm sure handloading and bedding it will go a long ways. I also intend to go to Burris bases, SS rings and a 1-4 SS when it's all said and done, I just had this stuff laying around and wanted to give it a go.

Wayne's BDL setup is in the future too but I thought I'd shoot it in factory guise for a bit

Make sure the fore LW fastener,isn't touching the barrel shank. Hint.

I like a little preload on a Flyweight barrel channel,but don't go nuts and often relieve same to a lesser level. Hint.

As long as they ain't SST's,you should gain ground. Hint..............

The factory sst shoot like royal sheet, the factory eld shos some promise.

I'll check that front mount too, not sure I remembered to initially.

I'm thinking a little love on the forend would help. It's darn snug.

I appreciate it

I like the "odds". Hint..................(grin)

Beretzs

I’ve swapped all my Howas/Vanguards to timney in the past. I say that like it’s a lot. 3 or 4. The 3 position still works. One of them just didn’t want to lighten up as much as I’d like so a friend of mine helped with it. He polished it some and replaced the spring. Wasn’t a big deal and it’s totally fine. So I’m confident that I’ll be pleased with swapping this one for another timney.

What I’m not confident about is the plastic bottom “metal”….lol. I want to want the cz swap but stick has me second guessing that. I understand Wayne’s BDL is great but I sure like the idea of smooth feeding from a magazine. I guess I’ll use the plastic metal until I decide.

I’m in about the same boat myself. I can deal with the plastic till I shoot it more.

Good intel about the trigger swap. I’ll keep that in mind. I do okay with the HACT but I don’t know that I’m in love with it either.

I scoped a mini Gren a couple of days ago and hope to send a few through it this weekend. I went Burris 2 piece and reversed the front for a bit more wiggle room. Farrell 30mm lows to get it as low as possible to help kid's. Barrel is floated but getting close on one side. Pending shooting results I'll decide what to do on bedding. I may go full length, not sure, but at least the action/lug/shank. Feeds really well with the plastic and that's what it's going to have to live with until OG or JO get parts. Stock is LIGHT but doesn't seem to solid through the butt, really easy to compress.

JO's original design on the bottom metal was set up with plastic lips to center feed. That sounded very interesting to me and I'd like to have seen how it fed. He's now changed it to staggered.

If one were to convert to the CZ 527 mags, any issues using a 6.5 Grendel mag for 6mm ARC?

224,243 and 264 Grendel sip from the same mag(s). Hint.

BDL opens doors,while DBM's close same. Hint...............

Update. I ordered a timney from euro optics’s and then got to thinking about the one Wayne sells that is labeled specifically for the mini. So I came home robbed one off a spare vanguard and the tab that is on the safety plate which locks the bolt does not work with the mini. So since the trigger is already on the way I’ll mess with it more when it comes in. I’m sure the one in the mail is exactly like the one I have but I’ll hold on until it gets here just to be sure.

I see it one of three ways. Chop the tab off and loose the bolt lock function which I don’t want to do. Send it back and order from Wayne like I probably should have to begin with. Or work the tab down similar to the oem tab. Could be time consuming and maybe too much for my dremel skills.

That’s great G2. So Wayne is the man to order the trigger from?

My Excl Lite 6 ARC got here today. Was surprised it came with a set of bottom metal (plastic) and action screws…like Howa knew I’d want a different stock…gonna play with it. Gotta feeling a B&C or Stockys is in the future. I don’t care about it being light, really wanted it for a practice comp gun.

What's the twist rate on your ARC? I thought the minis were all 1-8, but I could have sworn I saw a picture of a 1-7.5 somewhere that looked factory.

^
You did, about a dozen posts up.

That's the one, certainly doesn't look like a custom tube with the bit about reading the manual, yet every bit of copy I can find from manufacturer or retailer product pages plus some earlier reports says 1-8. So I'm curious if they've made the change wholesale, just to the carbon series, or what?

Mine is a 7.5 as well. As is my Howa 6 Creed. They did them right.

I'll have to check but I believe mine is 7.5 as well.

Also have a B&C on order...

I regularly run 80s at > 2.4" OAL

My CZ mag's are 2.325" tight,which is ASC AR mag confines and why I love them for 75 HPBT's in 223 and 88's in 22 PPC AFI. Hint.

While COAL is obviously a factor,the .100"++ leap to the lands,do no fhuqking favors. Hint.

The Mini is best in 22 PPC AFI,followed by 243 Grendel and lastly 264 Grendel. The shorter case,with greater capacity,simply slams doors shut and rules the roost. Wayne's World BDL metal,do many favors,while OEM and CZ DBM's do not. Hint.

Identical COAL here. Hint.



Just sayin'..............

Anyone heard what box length of the in development BDL BM from Jefferson Outdoors is going to be? They've got pictures of it on their site, but it's listed as coming soon. The pictures make it look like they took a little different approach on the box itself.

It's gonna be longer than OEM. Hint.(grin)

The new latch looks MUCH more promising. I'll have one for R&D,as quick as I can. I'm sure a phone call,would reveal all. Hint.................

That JO unit looks like what I'd want.

It looks like a single-stack box.

When you get your hands on one, you'll spill your thoughts on it here, right?

I've seen me critique wares and cascade those findings. Such things can be VERY good for Vendors. Hint...............(grin)

I believe the previous JO box was center feed design. I think the upcoming version will be a more traditional side/side.

Maybe so, but the limited pictures show a different appearance than that of the OG unit.

The internal length of the jefferson outdoor unit is 2.475 overall and that works out to being able to reliably feed a COAL of 2.450 in testing.

The current production is a stagger feed design instead of the original center feed design that was used on the first generation trigger guard, the change was made to make loading easier because the first generation was stiff to load.

The second generation also has a redesigned trigger bow and a much more positive floor plate latch to reduce the chance of accidental cartridge dumps.

Can I pay in advance? I they rate,I'll sell THE fhuqk outta' them. Hint...............(grin)

HPK,

Many thanks and I'll spill my guts on the findings. Hint.

For Spring Fling Splendor,I'll be sure to tote the 1D4/Siggy Artsy Fartsy 35mm Bokeh Bitch and the cup will runneth over. Within a rock toss of my front porch,I can think of (13) Howie Mini's to be dressed out. Hint.

Hell...I'm tying up Riggin' in advance already! Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!..............

Well alrighty then, the advertised (slower than SAAMI) 8 twist when they came out is what turned me off, because otherwise it looks like a perfect pairing. I've got a couple ARs so chambered, and really dig the little round, now I'm going to need a Mini with BDL bottom metal to go with them.

Same here. The AR was initially what got me started. Once the Carbon came around it was an easy pick up. Looking forward to seeing what JO releases if BS didn’t hog them all

Yes, the 6mm ARC is 1-7.5" not 1-8". Unfortunately their catalog and website state otherwise. I talked to a Legacy salesman before I ordered and he confirmed they are 1-7.5".

I shoot 243 Grendel Krunchentickers in 7",7.5" and 8" RPM and the 8" pinwheels 112's at Low Tide. Hint.

Though admittedly,Subsonic Fodder ain't my gig. Hint................

Trigger update. Apparently timney makes two separate triggers that work fine on the standard short action Howa/Vanguard. I have 3 and used more. All are 3 position safety. That type did not quickly work on the mini but the timney that came in today did as soon as I screwed it to the action. It is a 2 position safety that unfortunately does not lock the bolt. Not a huge deal but I thought I should clear that up because I misspoke earlier about it.

With some grinding I think the 3 position could be made to work on the mini but the model 609 worked without any modifications to the trigger or action. I did have to dremel out the trigger guard a little bit and the stock some. That was pretty well expected and no big deal.

I don’t know what Wayne sells other than it’s worded to fit the mini. I don’t know if it’s the 609 or he has one made to use the 3 position safety and work with the mini? I’m sure he knows haha.

Good intel Kaleb. Going to look over both. I'd like to keep the 3 POS myself.

Is there a link to the trigger or have you just spoken with Wayne about the trigger?

https://www.eurooptic.com/Timney-Triggers-Howa-1500-3lb-Black-Trigger-w-Safety-609.aspx

I ordered that trigger from them because it was one of the few places that had it in stock. Maybe the 3 position that’s out of stock everywhere? I didn’t realize that they had another one because all the ones I’ve ordered in the past were 3 position.

I didn’t talk to Wayne I just noticed he offered the trigger on the same page he lists the stocks and bottom metal for the mini.

So that’s not the 3 PoS one?

No sir. It’s the only Howa timney I’ve seen that isn’t but there it is. 2 position for sure. I don’t mind the 2 position if it locked the bolt like the old Remingtons did. I don’t hate the 2 position enough to fool with trying to grind to fit the other one. Not to mention that the others are out of stock everywhere I’ve looked. It would be worth calling Wayne to see what type he has. I would be surprised if he has a special 3 position made special for the mini. I hope for your sake I’m wrong. Sure wouldn’t be the first time I’ve been wrong…haha.

I will reach out to him.

Does his bottom metal and mag all nestle up nicely in my Carbon ARC? Might just make one order and clear the slate with that gun.

I’m still watching the bottom metal posts. Seems like the floor plate models are the way to go but I sure wish a magazine option was. I guess I’m sorta dragging my feet for that last move.

I wouldn’t mind trying the dip bottom metal with factory mags. I might not require as much oal as some. Fair chance mine will end up on a diet of 95 nbt’s. A big part of me getting this rifle is for a kids deer rifle.

Same boat, I'd be okay with the mags cause if they were popular enough someone may make some metal mags. Plastic bottom metal sorta sucks though.

I spoke with Mr. York several weeks back to order bottom metal and a trigger. At that time he had neither.

I have the CZ427 mag conversion bottom metal from Jefferson Outdoor and it seems to be the way to go if you aren't going to load longer than factory length. The metal CZ mags are well made and seem to be of the highest quality. For what I am using the mini for, I wanted the removeable mag for that convenience. Its a shame that Howa does not use as high a quality setup as the CZ.

^^^ which is what has me mulling a Ruger with AR mags instead of another Howa….at least for my pred/truck gun. I like my mini in 223, and I’d like one in 6ARC, but it is nice to have mags for some uses….but bottom metal is maybe a good option.

It’s kind of a shame that the market seems to have largely become a race to the bottom, price-wise, but there it is, as evidenced by CZ dropping those nice 527s for modular rifles that are no doubt easier and cheaper to make than the old ones, both mini and full-size. At least the aftermarket options are out there that allow us to upgrade. All the major players now have lines dominated by econo-rifles, and those makeup the majority of what I see in the few shops I frequent.

That JO CZ unit works very well, and I don’t regret the money spent on it and the four magazines I have. I’d definitely recommend getting spares while they’re still available at normal prices. No telling when they’ll disappear. The mags fit neatly in a shirt pocket, a definite advantage for me, as is the flush fit of the 3-round 527 M1 model.

CZ dropping the 527 has left an open field for the Howa Mini to exploit.
It looks like it's taking off and aftermarket support is kicking in.

If the CZ 600 hadn’t hiccuped out of the gate in a major way, it might have jumped into the niche well…..I really like some of the features and the stock is better than what comes on the Howa base, as is the mag arrangement and bolt throw. The price point is more, but it’s tempting. No 6 ARC in it that I’m aware of, though.

Almost done setting one up, waiting on an SRS pic/ARCA rail to use it on the tripod. Pretty pleased with it. Should be a coyote busting special.

Sharp looking setup. What stock is that?

Does anyone know if there is a three round CZ 527 mag for the 6.5G/ 6mmARC? Or a way to mod the 5 round to make it fit more flush? Will Jefferson Outdoor’s mag release have to be shortened? Ideas?

Bell & Carlson M40

Try 4198 or RL 7.... 30 grains...

or 3031 which has been available. try between 30 to 35 grains.. you'll find something that you like to duplicate a 6.5 Grendal...I load for both, along with the 260 Rem and the 6.5 x 55 and 6.5 x 57...

Been looking at the 6 ARC route... I've gotten to the point, I'm going to order a barrel from Douglas...
have it set up with a 1 in 8 twist, although I probably don't need it..but it won't hurt anything...

I'm just going to have it as a switch barrel on my Ruger American Predator...same profile and 22 inch barrel...
Oregon Tool & Die have a Savage Style barrel nut for cheap and its close enough for me to go over and pick it up at the 'factory'.

Regular polymer 223 mags for ARS work just fine, and actually work better than the factory Ruger Mag that came with it..

I'm enjoying playing with a 6 x 45 most recently...one doesn't need much to take down a blacktail a 100 to 250 yds...
That one is on a Savage Axxis platform... minus the barrel the rest is all factory...

sitting on more than enough powder, primers and bullets in 6mm and 6.5 mm to out last the Biden Administration..

HPK,

You fhuqking KILLED this. The design is Skookum,as are the materials and it is VASTLY fhuqking superior to Wayne's. Hint.





Just ordered another. Hint.



Now these Little Bitches will be able to take a lick. I'll be flogging on it at daybreak. Hint.

THANKS!..................

Coconut oil I suppose.

Good intel. TY

Rickety,

You'd need a co-signer for the postage...you "lucky" kchunt. Hint. Congratulations?!?

At least you can "afford" to steal Avatars. Hint.

Pardon wares that simply exist. Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!.........

KY then? It is Alaska.

Rickety,

Pardon your Texas Brokedick version of Reality. Hint.

Nice stolen Avatar. Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!............

lower 48 groupies with subscriptions must wait eagerly for their next monthly comic book.. " The Adventures of Schtick in the Alaskan Wild".. where can the rest of us sign up?

Rick you should think about signing up.. I hear they have a shorter wait list..

then you can get all this heroism, straight from the source, right to your door step or mailbox....


So Stumpy, how do you know when people have a "broke dick ?" do you inspect them?
if that is a coverup.. you can fix yours with a simple catheter and a piss bag...

Ain't easy being Schtick is it? but 'no one but no one', can get as much out of two brain cells than you can... even more so when you're drunk... That's why you're the pride of the "Alaskan Wilderness"...

#573. Thanks.

I ordered this morning. Looking forward to putting it to use.

This bottom metal is just simply fhuqking EXCEPTIONAL and beyond POSITIVE,in it's retention. Hint.




Two thumbs up and will not be disappointed! Hint...............

Looks good, got out of the HOWA Mini fan group and put together a Model Seven 7-08 the way I like it. Plenty light and didn't need to replace the bottom plastic.

HokeyPokeyKid,
Anyway to get on a back order list?
Just looked and website says you’re sold out.
TIA

Wayne REALLY dropped the ball,on spring selection and sizing,for his floorplate latches. There ain't much meat on the bone,on either of mine and there really should be much more surface area engagement to boot. Hint.



I tend to re-spring many latches anyhow,so am well prepared. Standard fare,is to double down and overshoot the original,with more ass. Hint.





MUCH fhuqking better now,but Gen2 JO fhuqking kills it. Hint.

In fairness,I've never seen a Seven in 7-08,let alone Smoochin' 162 ELD's. Hint.



Fhuqking LAUGHING!............

'Bout right,after I hacksaw the spout to 19" and crown with a RCBS deburring tool. Hint.







The Little Bitches are bow heavy at 22". Hint................

Cool.

Stick,

Who makes the other bottom metal? Not Wayne but?

https://jeffersonoutdoor.com/howa-mini-hinged-floorplate/

I've only shot/got (3) different aftermarket Mini Bitch Bottoms. Wayne's,the Jefferson Outdoor CZ magfed DBM and the Jefferson Outdoor Gen2 BDL. Of the trio,the JO Gen2 BDL is THE one for Dirty Duty Utility. Hint.

Wayne's,as recenly illustrated. Hint.





The JO CZ magfed DBM,from HPK. Hint.





The JO Gen2 BDL,from HPK. Hint.





You WANT the Jefferson Outdoor Gen2 BDL Bitch. Hint...................

Thanks Stick.
Thanks Kaleb.

It's too bad Howa cheaped out so much with their DBM rig. I was hoping the CZ metal would be a bit longer, but whatever, I dig the rifle but it'll get the JO metal BM soon enough.

Sorta like buying a 700 Rem knowing you’re going home with a box gun that will need modifications to make it better.

But the net cost, out the door, is a lot better with a Howa 1500 than a 700.

As an aside…Anyone thinking that Stick couldn’t have been a world champion at playing Mr. Potato Head is high af. He’s a fabricating phenomenon. Lol

🦫

It's horrible when you buy good [bleep] and have to spend a few 100 more bucks to make it "just right"... Damned Tikka guys just buy em and shoot em.. Bastids

Yeah, like buying all those fancy metal bottoms for AICS mags, when a guy could slut the Tik’s OEM plastique bottom - stuff an extendo Aussie made mag into it for a C-note and rock on.

I’ll just dive under my bed now until Stick gets done shelling my position…Wish me luck, Scott. 😂🦫

HA! The Aussie stuff didn't look too bad for what you paid for it.. I do dislike plastic though. I never had a lick of problem with them, but plain old Tikka mags while reliable suck for retention in my opinion. I hunted lions in Idaho a few years back with the Tikka 6.5 Creed. The rifle was a great shooter and I wanted it for a chance at woofs as well. Having that rifle over my head on sleds and hiking when I needed both hands had me backtracking that nasty sidehill country to recover my mag a few times. Duct Taped them in after that episode.. So, while they work, I never forgave em!



Now that poor little one lunged Ski Doo probably never forgave me...

If retention is the focus would not the Jefferson blind floor plate be the crown jewel (other than being out of stock currently)? 3 down vs 4 down is a drawback I suppose...


Ordered a mini ARC from Brownells the other day and currently eyeballing the blind option for my purposes.

Awesome pic!

You may need a smidge bigger snow sled next time, me thinks.

Petite isn’t a word I’d use to describe you.

😬🦫

Hey man, it was better than walking... Climbing up around the Middle Fork was enough hiking... Damn dogs just wander wherever they want...

Couldn't fhuqking stand it. Rifle hangs a bit over 1/2",mainly as that was as hard as I could hold the Illuminatti,with the dots I put on paper this morning. They were round,so Mechanics are sound and I couldn't miss 1000yd steel. Hint.









Came home and thought WTF?!? So I just simply removed Wayne's World,bucked the JO DBM latch flush with the bottom metal,now in order to release a mag,you gotta try. 5 rounds down in the schitty CZ mags. Set zero stop,removed windage turret and only need to chop the spout. BabyMan was wanting to play in the snow,rather than watch me shoot or run a hacksaw and I get it. Had lotsa rifles in tow. Hint....................(grin)

That would definitely make it difficult to accidentally drop the magazine....

I'd rather search a second for a mag latch,than hunt for however long,trying to retrace a dropped mag(which likely can't be found). BT/DT,with more than a few platforms and FHUQK that. Fhuqk Teekers in particular,unless AICS or CTR fed. Hint.(grin)

Dude,your Gen2 BDL bottom is sensational. Very WELL executed and everyone I know will be driving same. Prepare for some OT. Hint..................

I sold out of everything I had in the store over the weekend, definitely a first. I figured that last run would hold me until more material arrived but I was wrong. I have double the material for another run incoming.

I expect to be spending some late nights trying to feed the demand for a while.

I'm not very sorry,because I warned you. Hint.(grin)

Fhuqking LAUGHING!..............

For sure. From the pics here the JO stuff looks top notch. Cool to see a maker put out good stuff at a good price. Completes those Minis just about perfect.

Chris at JO sent me an improved mag latch that eliminates the need to file a notch in some of the 3-shot CZ mags (like mine). Replacing that is on “the list”. Haven’t had an issue with retention yet, but haven’t been on any snowmobiles either.

Meanwhile, the JO Gen2 hinged unit is due to land here Friday. I like the looks…….

What's the recommended barrel chop length for a 20" HB model to get better balance? I have both a 22" lightweight model which balances great mid stock and a 20" HB model that is really front heavy.

You need a heavier scope😜

Couldn't fhuqking stand it. THE Chop at 19". Hint.





MUCH fhuqking better,if only as per always. Hint...............

HPK's bdl arrived yesterday. Perfect. Spent a while feeding dummy's and feed/function was really, really good. The latch is excellent. Major change to the rifle when carried "in hand".

I almost ordered two. Wish I had.

Good to hear. Mine shows to be in tomorrow.

Toldjaso. Hint....................(grin)

I dislike when you cost me bucks

I hear that. I have my OG bottom metal working just fine now, but threads like this have me considering another rifle just so I can doll it up with stuff like this JO metal and a Carbon Queen stock.

Howa, please do something besides the carbon and kryptec or whatever. I've been a fan for a lot of years. You are 95% there.

Just checked the tracking on my floorplate, previously due here today. Somehow it found its way to Catano, PR; that’s right, fugging Puerto Rico, not exactly on a beeline to WV from California.

This is a new personal “Best” for the USPS and me. Whoo Hoo!

I agree, thats why I didnt order the Carbon Stalker complete rifle and build one from the Brownells action deal with a Stockys "second" stock.

This seems like a good buy if it is a 22" tapered barrel.

https://www.gunbroker.com/Item/977754602

I find it “amazing” that the say they have 63 available. Maybe their jobber has 63, but even that sounds improbable.

Someone should buy one and satisfy my curiosity!

The combination is all over if you Google the UPC. I’m thinking it’s a heavy barrel from the pics and 10.5 lb shipping weight.

Is there a sporter weight barrel option for the 6mmARC? I suspect missing it in Howa's catalog, but maybe it doesn't exist.

Brownells has the 22" barreled action in stock:

https://www.brownells.com/gun-parts...eled-mini-actions-6mm-arc/?sku=430102217

And if you hurry you can use the MARCH125 coupon code for $125 off $500 in FFL items.
A couple of hours left !

Something is not right with that ad.
Howa combos use Nikko Sterling scopes, not Vortex.
This is either a used "one off" or something smells.
Not 63 of these.

So the 22" is sporter weight? Do you know if the 20" is a sporter weight?

N.M. Found the answer.

Is the coupon code a fairly regular thing for Brownells? I missed out on this one.

Yes.

So any of you guys have a 6ARC and a 6 x 45 or 6X223?

Any real world differences? 223 brass is certainly much more available....

Shefire,

Your AMAZING Stupidity,never fhuqking disappoints...you "lucky" kchunt. Hint. Congratulations?!?




Fortunately for you,Imagination and Pretend are free,so even you can "afford" to "contribute". Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!..............

From what I understand this Howa combo was a special make up (SMU) for the distributor Bill Hicks Co out of MN.

Now as to having 63 available, I find that more than a little off. If in fact this is the Hicks SMU they don't even have any!

Edit/Correction! I just stopped by the LGS. Bill Hicks is one of their go-to distributors. Hicks does in fact have 63 (62 now, 'cuz I ordered one) in stock.

What’s the barrel contour on the hicks?

Thanks. Now I can sleep tonight.

22" Sporter is what they had in stock.

I got a Howa Mini 6.5 Grendel in early Jan of this year and it has a Vortex and Talley rings on it from the factory.

For those that have donned their Howa Mini's with a Stocky's second stock, what's your impression of the stock? How's the fit/finish outta the box? Hard to from the photo on their web site, but it looks like the recoil pad fitment is less than stellar.

On the fence as to a stock upgrade. Stocky's, B&C, or Oregon Gunsmithing. Anyone know what the wait time is on the OG sock?

I picked up a Stockys CF Sporter second for my build and it has needed a bit of work before use. It’s a real second with lots of imperfections in the finish. I sanded and filled those and primed it. Also filled the hollow stock with strips of closed cell foam and that has settled the noise issue. The recoil pad isn’t perfect, but none of the Limbsaver non-grindable have been a perfect fit from what I’ve seen. It’s good as far as I’m concerned. Overall, I really like the weight, shape, and feel of the stock. The forearm is fairly stiff and I’m trying to decide whether I’m going to full bed it or try free float first. I’m still working on it.

Thanks. The one on GunBroker appears to be a 20 inch barrel for the arc. Still, if you trip the scope for $200, it ends up being about a $275 barreled action.

My plan is to trip the Vortex. Never been a fan of them, but that's a whole 'nuther can of worms.

This is the description on the “Bill Hicks” special. UPC 68214688145


Howa Mini Action - The Howa M1500 Mini Action rifle is the perfect platform for an accurate and affordable bolt-action rifle. With precision in mind every Howa bolt action rifle is equipped with exacting tolerances and construction with superior materials. - Howa (Special for Bill Hicks) M1500 Mini Action (12% Shorter than the short action) - Stock options: Black or Kryptek Highlander/MA HTI stock - Available in .223 Rem 7.62x39 6.5 Grendel and 6MM ARC calibers - 22 Standard Barrel with 1/2x28 Threaded Cap - Bolt Action - Optics include/mounted Vortex Crossfire2 6-18x48 - Detachable Mag - Quick detachable sling - H.A.C.T. 2-Stage Trigger - Right hand - Suppressor ready - Sub-MOA Guarantee - Lifetime Warranty

That’s the way to do it.

This was what I was going off of:
“ Howa (Special for Bill Hicks) M1500 Mini Action (12% Shorter than the short action) - Stock options: Black - Available in 6MM ARC calibers - 20 Standard Barrel with 1/2x28 Threaded Cap”

🤷‍♂️

Not picking on Howa because they all do it but threading a 20” and especially a 22” barrel is a swing and a miss for most of us. For the people who want a 20”-22” barrel they don’t need or want the threads. For those who want the threads for a suppressor( I doubt guys are putting a brake on these) we don’t want barrels that long. I had a 22” threaded 1/2x28. Had 5” cut off and threaded back 1/2x28…lol.

Well to this point I've said that the one I had the LGS ordered for me yesterday is the 22" sporter version. That's the description given on the Hicks website, and the one that they had 63 of. As I recall, they had 0, 20" HB versions in stock.

Will know for certain the middle of the week. 20 or 22in length, makes no difference to me. It's gonna get lopped off. I'm more concerned with it being the Sporter profile.

Stupid folks, who find someone who doesn't think exactly like they do, think the other person is stupid..
at the same time, they find someone who thinks exactly like they do are friggin Geniuses.

Those with two brain cells follow others who have two brain cells... kinda a 'birds of a feather, flock together" sorta thing.
They probably are crosseyed and have hair all over their ass, but none on their head while they are at it...

Seafire you’re probably a nice guy but you sure spend a lot of time purposely arguing with a stranger on the internet. I’m not sure what you get from it but to each his own I guess?

Thanks Kaleb...

I actually like Schtick... He loves the attention of getting his cage rattled so I oblige,
I really doubt anyone can hurt Schtick's feelings, even if they use a sledge hammer...
He's pretty thick skinned... If he didn't enjoy it, he could always just ignore it... There are some folks I ignore on the fire...
But Schtick doesn't seem to ignore most of my posts mentioning his name.

If nothing else, the only people we entertain are each other...

I've always said, The guy would be a welcomed guest at my place, if he was passing thru and had a break down on his truck or something of that sort...He's originally from Oregon here.. over in Coos Bay.

Didn't like him at first, but that was decades ago. I can appreciate a guy who has a sense of humor and doesn't take the world so seriously, much less himself. Hence why I actually like and respect Schtick..

I'm sure life gets lonely when ya live on an Island by yourself. Schtick doesn't really need others so much and is pretty self sufficient. What's not to respect of someone like that.

Doesn't matter if Schtick like me or not. I joking laugh at the fact if he likes anybody really.

If he sent me a PM asking me to stop rattling his cage, I'd respect that... Never mean any harm to the guy.

Now he'll reply with a comment of how I love to kiss his ass, in his authentic Alaskan Trailer Park Gibberish... with some pictures of his guns in the creek, which we've all seen... I often wonder how much of the campfire makes a big percentage of his social life...Having tons of toys doesn't make up for a lonely life. He works hard, and in today's world you have to respect that also..

Thanks for the post Kaleb.

Waiting for my Howa mini 6ARC to show up at the LGS. In the meantime I've been pondering stock upgrades - Stocky's, one variation or another**, B&C, or Oregon Gunsmithing.

** I see where Stocky's not only has the standard Sporter stock (1sts and 2nds), but also a vertical grip version at 20oz.

Seems like quite a few have opted for the Stocky's Sporter. Would like some input from those that went the B&C or OG route.

Ask Shefire,as she undoubtedly has pictures of mine printed out and laying in wait,as she "lives" vicariously. Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!.............

I just put a 22" sporter into a B&C
Fitment was about perfect and the dark gray w/black web looks good.
For having a full internal frame, weight is not bad IMO, (2lbs).

The OG looks good, but there may be wait time.
Like that Oregon brown. (18oz claimed)
This one could be best of breed.

Stocky's carbon.
Sounds like not as rugged as the other two, but light weight ("just over a pound")

B&C's can be pressed into service. Hint............

Are the B&C’s light enough for the sporter barrel? I can’t tell from the picture if that is the sporter or heavy barrel.

I'd not B&C,but you can. Hint............(grin)

B&C shows 2 versions. M40 is for heavy or Sporter barrel. Sporter for the Sporter barrel.

But you have....

Thanks guys. Yea I realize they make a stock for the sporter I was asking if it’s light enough for the sporter. At the advertised 2 pounds and with Sticks reply I don’t believe it is. Good looking stock though.

I started to grab one of the vertical grip's from Stocky's but ended up pulling the trigger on a sporter second....price was just to good. I like Howa's factory version well enough, I figure Stocky's is the same. At some point I'd like to try one of the vertical grip versions.

It's upsetting to Window Lickers,that I simply shoot it all and then some,which never don't not crack me THE fhuqk up. 'Course,not even I,can shoot it until it's Invented. Hint.(grin)

Shoulda' done this prior,but it's been a whirlwind and I jut opened another. JO Gen2 BDL bottom guts,will happily digest 2.465" COAL,which is obviously a fhuqking Game CHANGER. .620 BC ARC 7.5" RPM OEM Smooches anyone? Hint.








I'd not B&C,but you can and hopefully Wildflower does. Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!...............

Weight is probably within a few ounces of the factory Tupperware. I'd hazard to guess that the B&C beats the Tupperware hands down when it comes to stiffness.

In my case, I intend to have the gun resting on a tripod, whether it be using a Bog Death Grip or an Arca rail. My preference is the Arca rail. That said, weight is not as big of an issue as it might be for someone wanting a lighter 'carry' gun. In the same context I could have gone with the 20" HB, but I ordered what I could get.

I'll trade you 2 Howa factory bottom plastics and 4 mags for it.... I'll even go all out and cover shipping.

I'm sure Wildflower and Shefire would be all over it,except the part about having something to start with. Hint.(grin)

Your kind spirit,is noted! Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!.............

6ARC Mini 22" sporter
B&C
JO BM
4-16 Arken
Total weight = 7lb-12oz

And I might.

Do tell us why you'd not. Afterall, you do have first- hand knowledge of the top 3 candidates.

Thank you. I guess my question wasn’t understood. I’m not that concerned about the total weight of anything but I want everything to balance.

I have a sporter in a vertical grip stocky with JO bottom metal. So knowing how it handles I was curious if the 2 pound B&C was working out. I like the looks but I don’t think it would balance out for me.

All this and that said I’m not sure I’ll get anymore anyway. By the time you buy the gun stock trigger bottom metal and have the barrel cut it’s getting pretty pricey. Then again what else can you buy for less?

Balance and handling,are only understood by those who actually shoot. Hint.

To the chagrin of Window Lickers everywhere. Hint.

Fhuqking LAUGHING!.............

Yes
Thank you !

After, for reasons know only to the USPS, spending three days in sunny Puerto fugging Rico on its way from CA to WV, my floorplate assembly from JO has landed here.

Nice stuff, Chris, just like the CZ mag unit. Thanks for squeezing me in!

I have a few shipments from last week go to some roundabout locations before being delivered, while a couple are still making the circuit....I have to wonder sometimes.

Had a package last Fall, that after landing and lingering a while in our Regional Hub in Harrisburg, PA, got up and headed to Cairo, IN, then to Kansas City (forgot which), then back to Harrisburg, and finally our little local P.O.

Fascinating stuff……

My 6.5 in a Wayne’s World stock with his bottom metal (until Saturday), and a Triji Credo HX 1-6 in QRWs on Warne bases, goes IIRC 6-7, a bit heavier than my Fieldcraft with an Accupoint 3-9.

My Carbon .223 with JO CZ unit, a rail, and a Tract 3-15 in IIRC MT rings is somewhat heavier, just over 7 I think.

Toted mostly a pre-64 .270 for about 30 years, so this is quite a change. Even my BACO .308 is only 7 3/4lbs, about 2lbs lighter than its older brother.

Just bolted the Brownell's barreled action and a Stocky's second together. On the list for another of HPK's bottom metal. It's so good I'll probably end up swapping the one I have back and forth from ARC to Grendel.

It's been a few years since I've played with anything 6mm. Anyone used the Scenar 105 at ARC speeds, out to ~300 yards, on deer? I don't need to reinvent the wheel...it may be hard to outdo the 103 ELDX. I prefer to kill steel with the same bullet that will be hunted...I'm lazy like that.

Mini 22” sporter; stocky’s second cf; factory mag - 4# 14 oz on my scale.

Jay

I don't have any experience with the 105 scenar in the ARC but I used them for 1 season out of a 6mm Creedmoor. We killed 4 whitetail 2 pronghorn and 1 mule deer with them. I can tell you for a fact that they are pretty darn hard. If you catch shoulders they do very well. Behind the shoulder, expect a pretty good death run as about the only expansion will be in the far side lung.

Out west the farther death runs weren't an issue but here at home it made some problems. I went back to the 108 eld. Just my .02

Thanks Brandon. That's what I was looking for regarding the 105.

Assuming you've had good on-game performance with the 108's? I'm always skittish with the eldm's and amax's. I know others had great performance out of them but I had an issue with a 75 Amax on a coyote that I couldn't explain. If it had been a deer it would have been really, really ugly.

Picked mine up from the LGS last night. Can confirm that the model Hicks had 63 of, is in fact the 22" Sporter. Haven't had a chance to give a real close look, but I know the stock will end up being replaced. Unfortunately Stocky's is out of seconds, and OG is 3-5 months out according to my converation with Wayne earlier in the week.

So, if I can play Captain Obvious, it seems likely they would have even more trouble at the slower speeds of the ARC.

Appreciated.

I haven't had a problem with the 108s or the old 105 amax at around 3000 fps, they might not exit all the time but I've never had one splash. I'd not be afraid to high shoulder any buck in my area with one, even inside 100 yards. I'd keep off the humerus though.

As to the 75s, I guess I've been lucky, even at 22-250 ai speeds. They might not dig real deep but I've never had a splash.

Just placed an order for a Stockys sporter CF second. They gave a $60 off of reg price of $299 for total of $239 before s/h. They show it as a back order but last time I ordered a second that showed back order I got it in a week. Fingers Crossed !!!

That's what I'd guess too Pappy.

I just did the same thing. I was going to hold off on a CF second because I plan to reshape my existing stock Ala MtnBoomer, but with a $60 discount at stake, I jumped. Guess now I have to order a rifle and BM for the new stock.

This is exactly how I got into my first one.

Guess it might be worth a try . . . .

Just got shipping notice, so they are in stock!!!

Yep, that was my assumption.

I'll just default to the 108's. Thanks again.

I got an order confirmation with a backorder statement. 😔

I think you will be a lot happier with a tipped bullet.

The 103 probably isn't a bad bet either

Seems I got a back order notice the first time and a shipping notice just a day or do later. So , there is hope.

I just got an email saying that it's on its way.🙂

First impressions of the Howa Mini 6 ARC:

Well, I've had a chance to look mine over. For money, it's a decent value. Stock is decent, albeit Tupperware. If alternatives weren't available, I could live with it - after some paint! (I was able to put a Stocky's second on B/O for $60 off).
Gonna play with the trigger and see where it's at and if it can be lightened. Little bit stiff for my liking.
Pulled the Vortex off it and will trip it here in a couple of days. Got a SWFA and a couple of Leupolds that can take it's place. Ordered a EGW pic rail. Came with Talley, or Talley-like mounts ringmounts. Won't work for me and my thermal scope mount.
Definitely need to chop the bbl. If for no other reason than to get a little bit more of a shoulder for the can to butt up against.

Bottom line, to this point...one could do WAY worse. YMMW.

Edit/Added. No sooner posted this and I got an email from Stocky's with a tracking # for the mini second I ordered and was under the impression it would be a while since they were 'back ordered'. It IS a good Friday.

Got a link for that Hicks unit?

Got a link for that Hicks unit?[/quote]

https://www.gunbroker.com/Item/977754602

https://gunzonedeals.com/product/mini-6arc-22-thrd-bl-6-18-vrtx-sling#product_detail

Here is another!!!

https://dahlonegaarmory.com/product-search-results?search_text=Howa+6mm+arc&from_form=true

It’s only $428

Killer price! Almost makes me want to stick my toe in the water again, but for a 7.62x39. Any experience with the advertiser? I will say this, they're honest and state 'in stock at distributor warehouse' and don't mislead one into thinking they have them on the shelf (though they may).

Oh, damn. This day is getting expensive.

Dahlonega Armory is GTG!!!

Bottom is about to drop out of the vortex take-off market

LOL!!

I grabbed the folding chassis model from Dahlonega a few weeks ago for $566 and sold the chassis for $335. Another option if you see it.

Just installed the JO BDL in my 6.5 (and sold my OGS!). Snug fit just like Mr. York’s model, but no inletting required. Had a little feeding trouble with the first round down, but I looked it over and pushed the follower spring all the way into the floorplate and that fixed that!

Found out that Mule Deer’s trick of loading from the bottom works perfectly with the JO unit. Chamber a round, then turn the rifle over, open the floorplate, tilt the muzzle down, and drop three (nose first please) into the mag box. Tilt the rifle back so the rounds settle against the rear of the box and close the floorplate and you’re good to go. Tried it at least five times and it worked every time. Kinda like a Howa Krag…..

I hope that linked Delonghea deal is legit, I ordered one of each 6.5 grendel, 6 ARC and a 7.62x39 last night!

They will ship directly from Bill Hicks in a few days.

All the choices in the rounds - .223/7.6/350/6/6.5 are nice fits for the action. Use, specifically in regard to range and game, make the Grendel and ARC stand out in my mind. As range extends, the ARC really seems like it's going to be THE sweetheart, especially for deer and yotes. If an area is straight wall specific, the Legend becomes really attractive for the niche. In a lightweight bolt platform Howa has really offered a lot with the Mini (especially with the rate of twist offerings) and it becomes even more attractive with the JO and Oregun bottom metal options.

They're already leading the way, but if HOWA decides to go stainless with offerings, it will get even better.

How did they handle FFL requirements? Is there a point during the checkout process where they ask for dealer info?

Yes, in the checkout, you will be asked for what dealer to ship to. When the gun is received by the local dealer, it will have a receipt inside showing the drop ship from Bill Hicks.

They do offer the Mini in stainless in other parts of the world. Not sure why it is not an option in the states for us.

https://www.austguns.com.au/product/howa-mini-action-stainless-synthetic-223-rem-new/

That’s awesome. Come on Bill Hicks!

Edit: found link

How do you see a price?

pic uploader

Listed at $900 Australian; or roughly $600 US.

LiKE

Thanks, Tx. 🙂

JO offers a BDL bottom metal as well as a a blind mag version. Does anyone know if there is a weight difference and a magazine length difference?

Can’t speak to the weight, but Chris at JO said both units use the same box.

Sure wish there was a way to get notified when the JO units are back in stock.

Same or just the option to back order. I need at least 2

Gunzonedeals.com is great to work with and easy. Shipping g is higher than some sights, but it was a wash in the end.
They will also ship to AK!

Ditto. Maybe HPK is watching/listening.

If anyone wants to be notified, just PM me with your email address or use the contact form on my website and I will add you to the contact list.

I'm running a little behind schedule but expect to have more before the end of the month.

Was going to eventually pitch together a .223 AI (like I need another rifle), but y’all have about talked me into one of these.
‘Fire’s gotta be the most expensive “free” thing I do…..

Stocky's CF mini 2nd came today. Actually pretty impressed. Little bit of CF deformation in a couple places right up against the recoil pad. Pin head size void in the stock just behind the safety. Comb height is better than the factory, at least for me a Kahles CL 3-9x42 in Leupold Open range 1" lows on a EGW pic rail. Barrel channel clearance is even all way down. Again pretty pleased. Gotta take a Scotch-brite pad and knock sheen off the finish though, and maybe a faux-Manners sponge paint.

Weighed the gun - 6# 7.5oz. That's the 22" sporter with Stocky's CF, DIP bottom metal (for now), factory magazine, EGW pic rail and Leupold Open Range 1" lows and a Kahles CL 3-9x42. Certainly could shed a few ounces with Talley LWs but I want the pic rail for mounting a thermal scope.

I'll shoot it soon. More than likely it'll get a chop to 17 or 18" to make it a little handier with the suppressor.

Good to hear.

I ordered over the weekend but haven't gotten shipping info, maybe they really are backorder now.

My stock showed up today as well. Your description of the flaws saves me some typing as mines about the same.

Being that I'm a shorter guy, I usually chop butt stocks to a more comfortable length and if I give this one the same treatment it'll take care of the flaws at the butt.

OG bottom metal fit much more easily into this stock than it did the OEM plastic unit. My rifle is chambered in 300 BO and has a medium weight barrel contour that doesn't drop completely into the CF channel, but I was told by a Stocky's rep that I could open the channel to fit.

The dilemma I now have is whether I should open the barrel channel and keep 300BO in this stock, or order one of the Hick's specials in .223 or 6mm ARC and drop it into this stock. My reasoning is that with the medium contour barrel of my 300BO, it doesn't seem to me to make sense because even in CF stock it'll never really be a lightweight package.

Ordered mine 4/7, shipping notification today.

I ordered 4/8 so fingers crossed

I want to say I ordered mine on 4/7 as well. Showed they were out of stock but let me B/O at the sale price. Couple hours later I got shipping notification. Brown truck delivered today.

Same here. DIP bottom metal fit much better than in the Stocky's CF than it did in the OEM stock.

Ordered my stock 4/7, no shipping info yet, but not in any hurry either.

Spoke to soon, 30 minutes after last post got shipping info…

Good karma!

Just got my second “second” in and it looks perfect! The first one needed a bit of work, but this one looks and fits great.

You guys are a bunch of enablers,...I just pulled the trigger on a Mini in 6 ARC through Dahlonega.

Now I need dies, brass and probably a different powder.

Gotta hate when that happens....enablers, that is.

Bunch of powders work. I've got Varget, CFE223, LeverRevolution and Pro Varmint on the shelf. Should be able to find something that'll propel 87gr VMaxs, and 100gr Partitions outta that.

I've got a few boxes of Sierra 85 gr. HPBT's and some 65 Vmaxes for now. Partitions are still unobtanium.

Seems like brass is the biggest hurdle at the moment. 💁‍♂️

Agree with brass being unobtainable. That said, factory ammo, at least the 103s and 108s seem to be on the shelves most places I've been. No the optimum means of acquiring brass but it works albeit a little pricier. Necking down and trimming 6.5 Grendel brass is an alternative, but I haven't run across any of that in my travels.

I'm still waiting for mine to ship. Did either Dahlonega or Hicks send you a tracking number?

I didn’t get an email from them but if you created a login for Delongha you can go to your order page and it has a tracking number. Mine arrived at my dealer yesterday according to UPS.

They confirmed they received the info from my FFL holder on Monday, but still no tracking available on my account. Just wondering if they're usually a few days between orders and shipping as the norm?

I believe I am going to sell mine (bbled action, heavy, 6mm ARC and Stocky's Carbon Fiber "blem". Both brand new-in-box, but too many guns. If anyone is interested, PM me. (See Classifieds).

Tarquin

My rifle arrived yesterday. Now the hard part comes, trying to find brass to load.

Dumb question but I can’t seem to find a straight answer…are we running Remington 700 bases on these?

You can, but the Remington 700 specific Talley mounts overhang the port.

I'm using Burris 2 piece made for 700's on mine. Low, strong, and you can flip the front one if you want a little extra ring spacing:

https://www.burrisoptics.com/mounting-systems/xtreme-tactical-two-piece-base

I'm using bases for the Weatherby Vanguard.

Same here.