Howa Bolt Action 6.5 Grendel

[Keystonecop]

Looking at possibly buying one for next years hunting season. I already know ammo is hard to find but I reload. Any Pros or Cons to this rifle? I have a Ruger American Predator in 6.5 Creedmoor I like to shoot or would I just be better off re barreling a old Savage model 10 short action I have to 6BR? I already have the brass and dies for that since I shoot Benchrest. Just looking for some ideas and input since there are folks on here that have forgotten more about shooting than I could possibly learn. Thx in advance for any input.

 

[argrendel]

I have had a Grendel in an AR for ten years or more. Love it! Very efficient round. Lapua brass lasts almost forever, barrels, the same.
I've shot eight deer with it and sold most of my bolt rifles.
I did just pick up a 6mmbr for long range. Not much difference comparing the brass to the Grendel.

 

[flatlander]

I've been working at getting some stocks made for the Howa Mini bbl'd actions I've bought, since I'm not crazy about the over molded-rubber/plastic Hogue stocks that are OEM on these rifles. Boyds Stocks inlets for the Mini, and offers several of their styles for it. I've also got actions at McMillan & Manners, and they're both working at having stocks for the Minis by or just after SHOT in January. MDT already has their LSS chassis system for these actions, and they're listed in Brownells. So, if you're interested in the Howa Mini 6.5 Grendel -which with either their lightweight 20" or std contour 22" sporter bbls would make a really neat little walking varmint or hunting rig - there are stock options, with more choices on the way. I ordered one of Boyds Pro Varmint model stocks in mountain camo laminate for the hvy bbl version of the Mini, thinking more in terms of pulling the factory 6.5 bbl & replacing it with a Bartlein or Krieger chambered for the 6 RAT, which is basically a miniature 6 Dasher formed on Grendel brass.

I've never played with the Grendel, but still have plenty of 6.5 brass that hasn't been formed into RAT cases yet. Should probably give it a whirl with one of Howa's factory bbls, just to see what it's capable of.