Greetings, I'm new to the forum and somewhat new to bolt action rifles. I'm considering the Howa 1500. CDNN has two models that I like, however I find it difficult to chose based on my objectives:
Caliber: .308
Purpose: hunting and long-distance shooting
The Howa 1500 Lightning looks really nice and has a 22" standard #2 contour barrel with Realtree camo stock. The Howa 1500 Varmint has either a 20" or 24" heavy barrel and black synthetic stock. Both actions and barrels are blued. Price difference is $50 so that really isn't an issue. I am curious as to how many folks are using heavy barreled rifles as their carry/hunting rifle? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Caliber: .308
Purpose: hunting and long-distance shooting
The Howa 1500 Lightning looks really nice and has a 22" standard #2 contour barrel with Realtree camo stock. The Howa 1500 Varmint has either a 20" or 24" heavy barrel and black synthetic stock. Both actions and barrels are blued. Price difference is $50 so that really isn't an issue. I am curious as to how many folks are using heavy barreled rifles as their carry/hunting rifle? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.