The Howa M1500 Mini Action Carbon Stalker is a bolt-action rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm with a 22-inch barrel, carbon fiber stock, and matte blue finish. It weighs 4.9 lbs, holds 5+1 rounds, and has a 1-in-9.45" twist rate. Three-position thumb safety. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Howa 
• Model: M1500 Mini Action Carbon Stalker 
• Type: Bolt Action Rifle 
• Caliber: 7.62 x 39mm 
• Barrel Length: 22 inches 
• Capacity: 5 rounds (+1) 
• Finish: Black (Matte Blue) 
• Stock Material: Synthetic with Carbon Fiber Stock 
• Weight: 4.9 lbs 
• Safety Features: Three-position thumb safety 
   

Detailed Features 

The carbon fiber stock is what gets this rifle down to 4.9 lbs, light for a 22-inch-barreled bolt gun. That weight matters during long carries in the field. The three-position thumb safety covers safe, bolt-open, and fire, useful when you need to work the action while keeping the trigger locked. 
 
The 1-in-9.45" twist is well-matched for the range of common 7.62x39 projectile weights. The Mini Action is sized for shorter cartridges, so the receiver is trimmer than a standard M1500. 
 
7.62x39 is not a common bolt-action chambering, which is part of the appeal: affordable, widely available surplus-compatible brass, manageable recoil, and decent terminal performance to about 300 yards on deer-sized game.

Owners of the Howa M1500 Carbon Stalker in 7.62x39 generally rate it well, with a few consistent themes.

Accuracy draws the most positive comments. Shooters report good groups at hunting distances, and the 7.62x39 cartridge in a bolt gun tends to be more consistent than from a gas-operated platform. The carbon fiber stock is appreciated for keeping weight down. 4.9 lbs is noticeably light, and that matters for hunters covering ground. The Howa action has a reputation for smoothness, which carries over here.

The price-to-quality ratio is a recurring point of discussion. Most buyers feel the M1500 delivers solid performance for the cost, putting it ahead of some competitors in the same tier.

Customization potential comes up often. The Howa fits a wide range of aftermarket stocks and the optic mounting options are straightforward.

Critiques are minor and vary by individual: a few buyers want a detachable box magazine option, and some find the 5+1 capacity limiting compared to semi-auto platforms in the same caliber. The 7.62x39 chambering in bolt guns is a niche choice, so the buyer pool self-selects for people who specifically want this combination.