#65prc

When it comes to modern bolt-action rifles, the balance between weight, performance, and durability is everything. The Howa 1500 Carbon Fiber Rifle—especially in its Brownells-exclusive configuration chambered in 6.5 PRC—hits that balance in a way that’s hard to ignore. Add in a custom Aluma-Hyde II camo pattern on a Stocky's Carbon Fiber Stock, and you end up with a rifle that doesn’t just perform—it stands out.

At the core of this build is the proven Howa 1500 action. Known for its reliability and smooth bolt operation, the Howa action has earned a strong reputation among hunters and precision shooters alike. It features a one-piece forged bolt with dual locking lugs and a solid extractor system, providing consistent lockup and dependable performance in a variety of conditions. Whether you’re at the range or deep in the backcountry, this is an action you can trust.

Chambered in 6.5 PRC, this rifle is built for serious performance. The cartridge itself has become increasingly popular for its ability to deliver flat trajectories, excellent ballistic coefficients, and impressive downrange energy. Compared to traditional cartridges like .308 or even 6.5 Creedmoor, the 6.5 PRC offers increased velocity and better long-range capability, making it a strong choice for both hunting and precision shooting. It’s a cartridge that thrives in open country where stretching distance is part of the game.

One of the standout features of this Brownells-exclusive setup is the carbon fiber barrel. By utilizing carbon fiber wrapping over a steel core, the rifle achieves a significant reduction in weight without sacrificing rigidity. This results in a barrel that maintains accuracy while being far easier to carry over long distances. For hunters who spend hours covering terrain, or shooters who value a lighter setup, this is a game-changer.

Complementing the barrel is the Stocky’s Carbon Fiber stock, which further enhances the rifle’s lightweight profile. Carbon fiber stocks are known for their strength-to-weight ratio, and this one delivers both durability and comfort. The ergonomics are well thought out, providing a solid cheek weld and stable shooting platform whether you’re prone, kneeling, or shooting off a pack. It’s a stock designed for real-world use, not just bench shooting.

What truly sets this particular build apart, however, is the custom Aluma-Hyde II camo pattern. Aluma-Hyde II, developed by Brownells, is known for its durability and resistance to wear, solvents, and harsh environmental conditions. Applying a custom camo pattern using this finish not only enhances the rifle’s appearance but also adds a layer of protection against the elements. The result is a rifle that blends into its surroundings while maintaining a unique, personalized look.

From a practical standpoint, this rifle excels as a lightweight hunting platform or a mobile precision rifle. The reduced weight makes it ideal for backcountry hunts where every ounce matters, while the 6.5 PRC chambering ensures you have the performance needed for longer shots. At the same time, the inherent accuracy of the Howa 1500 action, combined with the rigidity of the carbon fiber components, makes it equally capable on the range.

Another advantage of sourcing this rifle through Brownells is the ability to pair it with a wide range of accessories and upgrades. From optics and mounts to cleaning supplies and tools, everything you need to support the rifle is readily available. That convenience simplifies the process of building out a complete system tailored to your needs.

In the end, the Brownells-exclusive Howa 1500 Carbon Fiber in 6.5 PRC represents what modern bolt-action rifles are all about: performance without unnecessary weight, durability without compromise, and customization that reflects the shooter behind it. With its combination of advanced materials, proven design, and a unique camo finish, this rifle isn’t just another option—it’s a purpose-built tool ready for wherever your next shot takes you.

This is a rifle project I embarked on way back at the beginning of this year and specifically to try my hand at hunting elk out west in Colorado. Brownells offers this and many other how actions just as a barreled action so that you can ad the stock of your choice, optic and off you go. My initial setup of this rifle was with the SwampFox Kentucky long 2-14x44 FFP but I knew that I wanted something much, much lighter and with a bit better quality glass. Brownells had Leupold VX-5HD optics on close out not too long ago so I picked up one of those up in 3-15x44 SFP with their Firedot reticle which is in my opinion one of the best reticles for quick acquisition of game while out in the field. Not to mention a 5 oz.+ weight savings over the SwampFox optic. I mounted this up using the Mountain Tech rings made by Warne which also came from Brownells.

Other things I ended up using on this project was a carbon fiber stock from Stocky’s. I ended up using the Brownells Aluma-Hyde II finish in a kind of Multicam pattern. This rifle despite it’s length is pretty light all things considered. Perfect for that mountain hunt that didn’t happen. Luckily I was able to make plans to deer hunt on the private land I’ve hunted the past few years. With those plans in place I went ahead and starting dialing in the new Howa rifle with a selected load and that new Leupold scope. The ammo I ended up settling on is the Hornady Precision Hunter 143gr ELD-X load. This is a good bullet for deer and larger game. Luckily for me this rifle seems to really like this particular load as I was easily printing 1MOA groups at 100 yards. Maybe down the road I’ll invest some time into developing a hand load for this rifle but for now this factory ammo will do just fine. 

Despite this rifle being setup for more of a mountain type of hunting, it should do plenty good in the deer woods of the eastern part of the country. Typically I’m taking shots on deer 100 yards and in unless I’m hunting a field or power line clearing. What kind of distances would I feel confident in taking shot on a deer with this rifle? Honestly with the accuracy and repeatability I’d feel fine taking a shot easy out to 400 yards maybe farther. The optic is most definitely capable of some longer shots when compared to the typical LPVO that I’m using. Hopefully the 3 power on the low end doesn’t cause me issues with a potential close up shot. 

After this bolt action project using a Brownells Exclusive Howa barreled action I’m already looking forward to doing another one down the road. They have a .300 Blackout mini-action that I think would be a cool SBR project since that’s one of my favorite calibers. If you’re considering a bolt action project, definitely be sure to check out what Brownells and Howa have to offer…I promise you won’t be disappointed!