In the ever-evolving world of precision shooting and long-range hunting, finding the perfect rifle often leads enthusiasts down a complex path filled with countless options, features, and price points. However, the recent introduction of the Howa 1500 Mini EXCL Lite in the versatile 6mm ARC caliber presents a compelling solution that bridges the gap between lightweight portability and high-end performance. This rifle setup offers an impressive blend of long-range accuracy and hunting prowess. It delivers an attractive option for shooters seeking a do-it-all platform without breaking the bank.

Hunter & Competitor: Howa 1500 Mini EXCL Lite

At the heart of this setup is the Howa 1500, a smooth action that has earned a sterling reputation among shooters and hunters worldwide. The mini-action variant has garnered a dedicated following due to its compact and lightweight design. This scaled-down action offers improved handling characteristics and reduced overall weight. It makes for an excellent choice for those who prioritize mobility and quick follow-up shots.

The EXCL Lite Chassis takes the proven Howa 1500 mini action and elevates it to new heights. This modern chassis system not only enhances the rifle’s aesthetic appeal, but also provides a solid foundation for maximizing its accuracy potential. Constructed from lightweight polymer, the EXCL Lite Chassis manages to strike an ideal balance between precision and weight savings. The chassis did flex some up front, but I managed this by mounting the bipod a few inches back where there is more rigidity. The barrel is also free floated with plenty of space to prevent it from touching the chassis.

The LUTH adjustable buttstock provides a 12.5- to 15-inch length of pull for added versatility. Weighing 6.5 pounds with a thin profile barrel, the Howa 1500 Mini EXCL embodies a crossover platform. Its compact dimensions and lightweight construction make it an ideal companion for hunters. It especially shines for those who need to cover long distances or navigate challenging terrain. Simultaneously, the rifle’s inherent accuracy and customization potential position it as a viable contender in precision competition shooting.

The 6mm ARC Advantage

The choice of chambering plays a crucial role in determining a rifle’s versatility and performance. The 6mm ARC (Advanced Rifle Cartridge) continues rapidly gaining traction. It gained favor among discerning competitors and hunters who demand a cartridge excelling in diverse scenarios. Developed by Hornady, the 6mm ARC fills the niche of long-range precision with an AR-15 or mini-action bolt gun.

The 6mm ARC boasts a muzzle velocity of approximately 2,900 fps and ballistic coefficients (BC) ranging from 0.500 to 0.600. It delivers impressive long-range performance while maintaining a flat trajectory. This combination of velocity and aerodynamics translates to excellent downrange energy retention and minimal wind drift. It makes the 6mm ARC equally suited for ringing steel at extended distances or ethically harvesting game animals.

The cartridge’s moderate recoil further enhances its versatility, allowing shooters to maintain accuracy during extended shooting sessions or when quick follow-up shots are necessary. Additionally, the 6mm ARC’s efficient case design enables it to function flawlessly in short-action rifles, contributing to the overall compactness of the Howa 1500 mini-action setup.

To fully unlock the potential of the Howa 1500 Mini EXCL Lite, careful consideration should be given to the selection of optics and accessories to keep it lightweight. For this setup, I chose the Leupold Mark5 HD 3.6-18x44mm scope, the Banish Backcountry suppressor, and three modern ammunition options designed to maximize long-range performance across various applications.

Leupold Mark5 HD 3.6-18x44mm Scope

The Leupold Mark5 HD 3.6-18x44mm represents the pinnacle of precision optics, offering unparalleled clarity and durability in a compact, lightweight package. This scope’s generous magnification range of 3.6-18x provides the versatility needed to tackle both close-range hunting scenarios and long-range precision shooting challenges, all while weighing in at only 26 ounces.

Leupold’s renowned HD lens system delivers exceptional light transmission and edge-to-edge clarity, ensuring a bright, crisp sight picture even in challenging low-light conditions. The 44mm objective lens strikes an optimal balance between light-gathering capability and overall weight, complementing the Howa 1500’s emphasis on portability.

One of the Mark5 HD’s standout features is its robust and precise elevation adjustment system. With 30 MILs of total elevation travel, this scope allows shooters to easily dial for long-range shots without resorting to hold-over techniques. The zero-stop feature ensures that shooters can quickly and confidently return to their established zero, a crucial capability when transitioning between different ranges or shooting disciplines.

The Mark5 HD also incorporates Leupold’s proprietary Twilight Max HD Light Management System, which enhances image quality and contrast in low-light conditions. This feature proves invaluable for hunters operating during the critical dawn and dusk periods when game animals are most active.

Banish Backcountry Suppressor

Integrating a suppressor into this rifle setup offers multiple advantages that enhance both shooting performance and overall user experience. The Banish Backcountry suppressor is an excellent match for the Howa 1500 mini-action Excl Lite Chassis, thanks to its compact dimensions and lightweight construction.

By reducing muzzle report and felt recoil, the Banish Backcountry contributes to improved shooter comfort and accuracy. The reduction in noise levels is particularly beneficial in hunting scenarios, where minimizing disturbance to surrounding wildlife can be crucial. Additionally, the suppressor’s ability to mitigate muzzle flash helps preserve the shooter’s night vision, an asset during low-light hunting situations.

Ammunition Options

The 6mm ARC cartridge benefits from a growing selection of high-performance ammunition options tailored to various shooting applications. For this setup, we’ll focus on three exceptional choices that showcase the cartridge’s versatility:

1. Hornady ELD-VT 80-grain: Hornady’s new ELD-VT (Extremely Low Drag – Varmint Tip) bullet is optimized for exceptional accuracy and explosive expansion on small to medium-sized game. Its lighter weight allows for higher velocities, flatter trajectories, and devastating terminal performance on varmints and predators. The polymer tip initiates rapid expansion upon impact, while the bullet’s streamlined profile ensures excellent long-range accuracy.

2. HSM 95-grain Berger VLD: HSM’s new Trophy Gold ammunition features the renowned Berger VLD (Very Low Drag) bullet, known for its exceptional ballistic performance and accuracy potential. The 95-grain weight strikes a balance between velocity and stability, making it suitable for both long-range target shooting and hunting applications with medium-sized game. The VLD profile excels at retaining energy, ensuring effective terminal performance even at extended ranges.

3. Hornady ELD-X 103-grain: This match-grade hunting bullet combines exceptional accuracy with reliable terminal performance. The ELD-X (Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding) design features a heat-resistant polymer tip that maintains its aerodynamic profile even at extreme velocities, resulting in superior long-range accuracy and terminal performance. Upon impact, the bullet’s InterLock ring ensures controlled expansion and deep penetration, making it an excellent choice for medium-sized game.

Range Time

From testing all three factory loads in this setup on the range, sub-MOA groups aren’t just possible; they can be expected consistently with experienced shooters. I shot a combination of three- and five-shot groups to test Howa’s sum-MOA guarantee and the rifle’s full accuracy potential. I also ran this setup out to 1,000 yards and found that hitting IPSC-style steel plates was shockingly easy at 500 yards.

The free-floated barrel of the EXCL Lite Chassis, combined with the precision and light recoil of the 6mm ARC, creates a unique blend of long-range performance. Watching your bullet trace and impacting the target provides an extra level of enjoyment. Being able to see your bullet impact will be an advantage for hunting as well.

The 6mm ARC cartridge also suppresses exceptionally well with the Banish Backcountry. While testing the ammunition, I could hear the bullets hit the 100-yard berm behind the target. It was truly a joy to shoot.

Putting it All Together

The combination of the Howa 1500 Mini EXCL Lite, the Leupold Mark5 HD 3.6x18x44mm scope, the Banish Backcountry suppressor, and modern 6mm ARC ammunition creates a remarkably versatile and capable shooting system. This setup successfully bridges the gap between a dedicated long-range precision rifle and a purpose-built hunting rig, offering shooters a true do-it-all platform in a lightweight package. Whether ringing steel at 1,000 yards or harvesting predators to medium-sized game, this crossover platform is up to the challenge.

For more info, visit howausa.com.