Howa 1500 build... Caliber/cartridge swap question

[Lead Slanger]

I found a good deal on a Howa 1500 in 6.5 PRC, so I bought it. It's like I want it to be set up....Long action with a magnum bolt. I got it with full intentions of only using the action. I was wanting to build a 300 PRC, but have since changed my mind and decided to go with a 300 WSM. Now, I've stumbled across something saying that I may have problems doing that. Something about the feed rails. I know the WSM is a little chunkier. What kind of problems will I run into? Is it something that can be taken care of easily while it's getting re-barreled and chambered?

 

[STOMP442]

You can open up the feed lips on the receiver to make it work but you will probably need to change to a center feed style detachable mag system to have it function properly. I don't mess with customizing the Howas much, so I don't know off hand what all is available for them. You may want to source a magazine system before modifying the action.

 

[KRP]

Put some WSM rounds in it and see how they cycle. Might need to modify, might not. Wyatt's mag boxes work on a Howa if you decide center feed is the way to go.

 

[Lead Slanger]

Thanks for the info. I'll look into Wyatt's.