The Howa M1500 Walnut Hunter 7.62×39 22 in Bolt Rifle brings a compact, hard-hitting Mini Action to the field with a classic walnut fixed stock. Chambered in 7.62x39mm, this bolt gun pairs a 22-inch threaded, drawn-steel barrel with Howa’s two-stage HACT trigger, giving you a balanced rifle that’s ready for hunting, target shooting, or just ringing steel at the range. The receiver is drilled and tapped for optics, and the three-position safety lets you carry with confidence. At $658.67, it’s a solid entry-level option for anyone wanting a reliable, accurate rifle in a versatile caliber.
| Manufacturer | Howa (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | M1500 Walnut Hunter |
| Material | Walnut stock, drawn-steel barrel |
| Compatibility | 7.62x39mm ammunition |
| Finish | Blued barrel and receiver |
| Weight | Approx. 7.2 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Mini Action Design – Why it matters: The compact action reduces overall length and weight, making this rifle easier to handle in tight spots like brush or a tree stand, while still delivering the reliability of Howa’s proven bolt system.
- 22-Inch Threaded Barrel – Why it matters: You get the option to add a suppressor or muzzle brake without a gunsmith, cutting down recoil and noise for a more pleasant shooting experience, especially with the 7.62×39’s mild kick.
- Two-Stage HACT Trigger – Why it matters: The two-stage pull gives you a distinct take-up then a clean break, helping you stay on target and make more accurate shots, even if you’re new to bolt-action rifles.
- Three-Position Safety – Why it matters: You can lock the bolt, cycle rounds with the safety on, or fire — giving you full control over carry and handling, whether you’re walking through the woods or at the bench.
- Drilled and Tapped Receiver – Why it matters: Mounting a scope or red dot is straightforward, so you can tailor the rifle to your preferred sight setup without extra machining costs.
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for recreational shooters who want a reliable, accurate bolt gun without breaking the bank. First-time buyers will appreciate the simple controls and the 7.62×39’s low recoil and affordable ammo. Hunters looking for a lightweight, compact rifle for deer, hogs, or varmints will find the Walnut Hunter a solid choice, especially if they like the classic look of a wood stock.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Compact Mini Action handles great in the field; threaded barrel for suppressor use; two-stage trigger is crisp and adjustable; walnut stock looks great and is durable; price is very competitive for the features.
- Cons: The fixed stock doesn’t offer length-of-pull adjustment, so taller shooters might find it a bit short; the 7.62×39 chamber limits ammo selection compared to .308 or .223, and you’ll need to check compatibility with some hunting loads.
Comparison
| Feature | Howa M1500 Walnut Hunter | Ruger American Ranch | Savage Axis II XP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 7.62x39mm | 7.62x39mm | .223 Rem (comparable budget option) |
| Barrel Length | 22 inches | 16.5 inches | 22 inches |
| Stock | Walnut fixed | Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Trigger | Two-stage HACT | AccuTrigger | AccuTrigger |
| Weight | 7.2 lbs | 6.5 lbs | 6.5 lbs |
| Price | $658.67 | $529.99 | $399.99 |
| Threaded Barrel | Yes | Yes | No |
FAQ
What’s the twist rate on the Howa M1500 Walnut Hunter 7.62×39?
Per Howa specs, the twist rate is 1:9.5 inches, which stabilizes most 7.62×39 loads from 123 to 150 grains well. It’s a good all-around twist for hunting and plinking ammo.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle without a gunsmith?
Yes — the receiver is already drilled and tapped for standard scope bases. You just need to pick up a set of rings and a base (like a Weaver or Picatinny rail) that fits the Mini Action footprint, then mount your optic in minutes.
Is the 7.62×39 ammo easy to find for this rifle?
Absolutely. 7.62×39 is one of the most common calibers out there, thanks to the AK platform. You’ll find it at most gun stores, big-box retailers, and online ammo dealers. Just stick to quality brass-cased ammo for best accuracy — steel case works too but may be less consistent.
Does the walnut stock hold up in wet weather?
The walnut stock is finished with a durable lacquer, but like any wood stock, it can warp if soaked repeatedly. Keep it wiped down after rainy hunts and store it in a dry place. For serious wet-weather use, a synthetic stock might be more practical, but the walnut looks better and feels warmer in hand.
How does the HACT trigger compare to other bolt-action triggers?
The HACT (Howa Actuator Controlled Trigger) is a two-stage design with a distinct take-up and a clean break. It’s adjustable for pull weight (roughly 2.5 to 4 lbs) and is smoother than many budget triggers. Compared to a Savage AccuTrigger, it’s a bit more crisp but less adjustable without tools. For the price, it’s excellent.
Trust & Delivery
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- ✔ Ships within 1-2 business days
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Related Categories
Bolt Action Rifles | Rifles | Hunting Rifles
Last updated: April 2026
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