Howa Tallon Thumbhole Varminter

[Sabre9mm]

Considering for a long range plaything.
7mm MAG

Barrel seems very thin after the first few inches, would I be better off with a heavier barrel?

Configured just like shown below.

They want $869 for it with scope, new, never even heard of HOWA.

New range has a 500yd range, I would like to play on, little out there for my 5.56 despite it being capable.

Opinions, experiences, limitations?

 

[Daekar]

Howa is a Japanese company that also makes the Vanguard for Weatherby. The Howa 1500 is basically a Vanguard with slightly different finish, or so I understand.

As for quality, I have a buddy whom has been shooting rifles for accuracy and handloading since he was able to hold a gun, and he said that the Howas he's shot were functionally indistinguishable from Tikka rifles. That's pretty high praise, in my opinion.

I just bought a Howa in 223, and while I haven't had a chance to do much more than put a few rounds through (wrong size bullets for the twist), the function and fit of the rifle are great. Probably the finest gun in the house, although some would dispute that in favor of my wife's turkish shotgun from CZ.

If you're doing long range shooting like 500 yards, you might want to consider a rifle that doesn't come with a scope and provide your own glass. You'll probably want more magnification than the provided scope will offer.