The Howa Mini Hunter is a bolt-action rifle chambered in 6.5 Grendel, built on the M1500 Mini Action with a walnut stock and black steel receiver. It's a good fit for hunters who want a light, accurate package that handles medium game and does double duty at the range. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: M1500 Mini Action 
• Caliber: 6.5 Grendel 
• Action Type: Bolt Action 
• Barrel Length: 22 inches 
• Overall Length: 39.5 inches 
• Capacity: 5 rounds + 1 (in chamber) 
• Weight: Approximately 7 lbs. 
• Stock Finish: Walnut 
• Receiver Finish: Black Steel 
• Rate of Twist: 1-in-8" 
• Thread Pattern: 5/8x24 
• Safety Features: Three-position thumb safety 
   

Detailed Features 

The 22-inch barrel and 1-in-8" twist rate are well-matched to the 6.5 Grendel's projectile selection. The three-position thumb safety lets you load or unload without putting the rifle in a fully live state. The walnut stock is fitted to the Mini Action's shorter receiver, which shortens overall length to 39.5 inches, a meaningful difference in tight hunting situations. At roughly 7 lbs., it's light enough for long carries without being so light that recoil becomes a problem.

The Howa M1500 Mini Hunter in 6.5 Grendel gets consistently good marks for build quality. The walnut stock and overall fit and finish feel solid for the price. Accuracy is frequently highlighted; owners report tight groups with quality ammunition, which makes it a reasonable choice for both deer hunting and target work.

The 6.5 Grendel caliber draws positive feedback for manageable recoil and effectiveness on medium game. The compact size is a real selling point for hunters who carry all day. The factory trigger is regarded well, though some owners upgrade it for competition use. Ammunition availability for 6.5 Grendel has improved over time, though it still comes up as a consideration compared to more common calibers.

Value relative to comparable bolt guns is a common positive theme. Most owners report reliable function and express satisfaction with the purchase.