How many people are happy with their Howa Mini?

[Te Hopo]

Curious regarding barrel removal or replacement. I have a 6.5 Grendel in 20”. I would prefer the 16” and two different smiths stated they could not remove my barrel without cutting the action or the barrel? Is this the case. So I need to buy a 16” and trash the 20”? I was planning on cutting the 20” to 16” and it appears that is not possible at this time. Suggestions are appreciated.

Sounds like you need to find a decent smith, any gunsmith worth their salt should be able to either remove the barrel or else do a chop and thread with the stripped action still attached.