Tech Tip: W11 Lightweight Howa Build
Transcript:
HOWA RIFLE BUILD WITH A BROWNELLS EXCLUSIVE BARRELED ACTION
In this video, Caleb walks through a complete Howa rifle build using a Brownells exclusive Howa barreled action. This build focuses on keeping weight down while still maintaining accuracy and durability for hunting and general precision shooting.
Starting with a barreled action streamlines the build, but proper assembly still matters. Correct torque values, good bedding, and solid optic mounting are what turn parts into a reliable rifle.
BUILD OVERVIEW AND COMPONENT SELECTION
The foundation of this rifle is a Howa barreled action offered as a Brownells exclusive. The example shown features a lightweight barrel with a gray Cerakote finish. The rifle uses a detachable magazine system, with multiple magazine capacities available depending on the shooter’s needs.
Some Howa barreled actions ship without bases. For standard actions, Nightforce bases are a common option. The ultralight action shown here includes its own factory base, which simplifies the build.
CARBON FIBER STOCK AND WEIGHT CONSIDERATIONS
This build uses a Howa carbon fiber stock with a textured camo finish that is exclusive to Brownells. Carbon fiber keeps the rifle light without sacrificing rigidity, making it well suited for hunting and mountain use.
Caleb points out that on lightweight rifles, the optic often becomes the heaviest component. Balancing optic capability with overall weight is an important consideration when planning a build like this.
OPTIC AND RING SETUP
The optic selected for this rifle is a Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25. It is a first focal plane scope with an MRAD reticle, making it suitable for both precision shooting and longer range hunting.
Vortex Pro rings are used to mount the optic. These aluminum rings are strong, reasonably lightweight, and clearly marked with torque values. That makes them easy to install correctly without guessing.
HOWA FACTORY TRIGGER NOTES
The Howa barreled action includes a factory two-stage trigger that is adjustable. Caleb explains that this trigger performs well for most applications and is rarely replaced in his Howa builds. For shooters who want an aftermarket option, Timney triggers are available.
BEDDING THE CARBON FIBER STOCK
Before final assembly, Caleb discusses bedding the stock. The interior of the carbon fiber stock uses a synthetic style material and does not come pre-bedded. Bedding is not always required, and the best test is to shoot the rifle and evaluate accuracy.
For a rifle that will see hard use in hunting and rugged environments, Caleb recommends bedding as a preventative step. Brownells Acraglas Gel is used, and the process follows the method shown in a separate how-to video.
FINAL ASSEMBLY AND ACTION TORQUE
With the stock bedded, the barreled action is fitted into the stock. The bottom metal is installed, followed by torquing the action screws. For this setup, the action screws are torqued to 45 inch-pounds, with the shorter screw in the front and the longer screw in the rear.
Proper torque and sequence help ensure consistent accuracy and prevent stress on the action.
BASE AND OPTIC INSTALLATION
The factory ultralight base is installed using blue Loctite, with base screws torqued between 20 and 25 inch-pounds. Screw length and placement are important, especially on bolt actions where receiver thickness varies.
The Vortex Pro rings are mounted next, with the rings pulled forward before tightening to prevent movement under recoil. The optic is leveled using an Arisaka leveling tool, and the ring caps are torqued to 18 inch-pounds in a crisscross pattern.
FINAL CHECKS AND INTENDED USE
Once assembled, the rifle is function checked for bolt operation, safety engagement, and proper eye relief. Despite using a larger precision optic, the rifle remains lightweight and well balanced.
