Howa Mini Rifles, Builds, and Upgrades

Here’s the new bolt knob I was posting about a couple of months ago for the Howa Mini (and Tikka). It is working exceptionally well & definitely alleviates and feeling of heavy bolt lift on the Howa.


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Where or when is this available?

That bolt knob looks hideous. 🤦‍♂️
Behold! Beauty's eye holder!
Or something
 
In all fairness, all oversized bolt knobs look bad.

I’m not a huge fan of the big tactical knobs either. I designed the Plain Jane version to be as slim as possible, and still give enough leverage to counteract the typical Howa bolt lift. The clamp on versions caused me issues with scope interference & howa’s design precludes machining a thread for a traditional screw on bolt knob.


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I’m not a huge fan of the big tactical knobs either. I designed the Plain Jane version to be as slim as possible, and still give enough leverage to counteract the typical Howa bolt lift. The clamp on versions caused me issues with scope interference & howa’s design precludes machining a thread for a traditional screw on bolt knob.


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Do you have to drill/tap the hole in the mini bolt knob to accept yours? Or is it a compression fit or something
 
That’s what the Jefferson Outdoors upgrade is. He offers a blind mag like an ADL, and a hinged floor plate model as well. Unless I’m misunderstanding what you are asking.

I just bought a mini in 6 ARC. I didn't know this bottom metal existed but I may have to get one. Probably going to replace the factory stock with a Bell and Carlson.
 
I just bought a mini in 6 ARC. I didn't know this bottom metal existed but I may have to get one. Probably going to replace the factory stock with a Bell and Carlson.

When I was considering building a 6 ARC on a Howa Mini, the consensus among everyone with whom I spoke was that the Jefferson bottom metal was basically mandatory to make the rifle feel “not cheap.”
 
I just bought a mini in 6 ARC. I didn't know this bottom metal existed but I may have to get one. Probably going to replace the factory stock with a Bell and Carlson.
As mentioned, it’s almost a must have. I’m putting together my first mini and I’ve seen enough people talk about it that it’s for sure on my list to purchase.

I bought a factory stock off a guy for $60. Once I’m back to the house I will pick it up and assemble the rifle. I too am thinking about putting it in a B&C, but figured the factory stock will get me shooting and I will see how it does with that before upgrading.
 
Well my .223 Mini is complete (for now). I bedded with JB Weld, then sanded the stock with 600 grit. With a bit more JB, I textured the stock a la @Tanner before sponge painting with Krylon Fusion Deep Matte Grey and Matte White. I followed that with eight or so layers of clear coat.

The scope is a Burris Fullfield 2-8x35 with an illuminated reticle in Low Talley's. The cheek weld is perfect in the Lows and there's plenty of clearance both at the bolt and barrel. The e3 reticle is a bit different (fine and more detail) and thus will take some getting used to, but the illumination should help offset that for quick target acquisition .

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Now to wait for a warm enough day to get to the range!
How has this optic gone for you long term? Seems the perfect match for the Mini.
 
I’m not a huge fan of the big tactical knobs either. I designed the Plain Jane version to be as slim as possible, and still give enough leverage to counteract the typical Howa bolt lift. The clamp on versions caused me issues with scope interference & howa’s design precludes machining a thread for a traditional screw on bolt knob.


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I machined a thread. Wasn't too hard. Good solution for a reversible mod though 👍
 
No drilling and tapping. It’s similar to an expansion collet. Installation takes about 30 seconds with zero modification to the gun.



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Cool design! I’ll probably be picking one up. I get a lot of scope interference on higher magnifications with the stock bolt handle.
 
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