Description
There is no shortage of lightweight hunting rifles out there, but most of them either cost a small fortune or feel like a compromise. The Howa M1500 Superlite Gen2 splits the difference in a way few rifles do. At roughly 4.9 pounds bare, this 6.5 Creedmoor is the kind of gun you stop noticing on your shoulder somewhere around mile three, and that is exactly the point. Howa built it on a reduced short action that sits between their Mini Action and standard short action, trimming size and weight from the receiver and bolt without losing the smooth cycling the 1500 platform is known for.
What Makes the Superlite Gen2 Different
The big update for Gen2 is the HS Precision synthetic stock, a nice step up in stiffness and feel that helps this featherweight settle in and shoot like a heavier rifle. Pair that with Howa's HACT two-stage match trigger, which breaks clean and crisp right out of the box, and you have a lightweight rig that rewards good fundamentals instead of punishing them. The 20 inch blued barrel wears a 1:8 twist that stabilizes the heavier 6.5 Creedmoor bullets most hunters favor, and the 1/2×28 threaded muzzle is ready for a suppressor or brake. Reviewers have noted the Superlite tightens up noticeably with a can on the end, so if you shoot suppressed, this rifle was practically made for you.
Built for the Backcountry, Not the Bench
A three-position safety lets you cycle the bolt with the safety engaged, a feature worth having when you are unloading in the dark after last light. The receiver comes drilled and tapped so mounting glass is straightforward, and the flush-fitting detachable magazine holds three rounds with one more in the chamber. Whether you are chasing mule deer above the treeline or slipping into a stand with a long walk in, the Superlite Gen2 carries easy, points quick, and puts bullets where you hold. For a mountain rifle that does not require mountain rifle money, this one is tough to beat.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Howa
- Model: M1500 Superlite Gen2
- MPN: HHSSL65CRBLK
- UPC: 682146888966
- Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
- Action: Bolt Action, Reduced Short Action
- Barrel Length: 20 in, Threaded 1/2×28
- Twist Rate: 1:8
- Capacity: 3 + 1, Detachable Magazine
- Weight: Approx. 4.9 lbs
- Stock: HS Precision Synthetic, Black
- Trigger: HACT Two-Stage Match
- Safety: 3-Position
- Sights: None, Receiver Drilled and Tapped
- Metal Finish: Blued
- Hand: Right
What’s Included
- Howa M1500 Superlite Gen2 rifle
- One 3-round detachable magazine
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Howa M1500 Superlite Gen2 weigh?
The rifle comes in around 4.9 pounds before you add optics, making it one of the lightest bolt actions in its price range. Even with a scope, rings, and a sling, most setups stay comfortably under 7 pounds. That is a big deal on long hikes or steep terrain.
Is the Superlite Gen2 suppressor ready?
Yes, the 20 inch barrel is threaded 1/2×28, which covers most common muzzle devices and suppressor mounts for this caliber. A lot of owners run these suppressed, and the extra weight up front tends to steady the lightweight barrel and tighten groups. Just double check that your suppressor or adapter matches the 1/2×28 pitch.
Does this rifle come with sights or a scope rail?
No sights or rail come installed, but the receiver is drilled and tapped for scope bases. Howa 1500 short action mounts are widely available from Talley, Leupold, Warne, and others, so setting up glass is quick and inexpensive. Plan on adding bases or a one-piece rail along with your rings.
What twist rate does the Superlite Gen2 have in 6.5 Creedmoor?
It runs a 1:8 twist, which is the standard for 6.5 Creedmoor and stabilizes the long, high-BC bullets in the 140 to 147 grain range that the cartridge is famous for. Lighter 120 to 130 grain hunting loads shoot well through it too. In short, it handles just about any factory 6.5 Creedmoor ammo you feed it.





Reviews
There are no reviews yet.