S&W Rifle Model 1500

[jmiles1960]

I was in my local gun shop this afternoon and ran across a Smith & Wesson center fire rifle in 25-06 caliber. I have never seen one before and except for S&W "black" rifles, wasn't aware S&W even made these! I believe the model number was 1500, blued, nice end cap on the stock grip, smooth bolt action. No sights, just tapped and scope mounts.

How collectible, valuable or desirable are these? Any production / information would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Arm]

S&W rifles were made by Howa in Japan. Great and accurate they are, well built. I've owned one chambered for .240 Weatherby magnum. I would grab that rifle, 25.06 is a very good caliber.

 

[Ruger 13]

Weren't some made by Husqvarna?

 

[Sevens]

Some were made by Husqvarna but I don’t believe the 1500 was made by anyone other than Howa.

For anyone not familiar with the Howa, it may be worth noting that the entry level Weatherby Vanguard is actually a very nice Weatherby stock holding a Howa 1500.

I don’t believe that S&W 1500 rifles have much of a collector market but if the price is decent for a rifle that you intend to shoot and enjoy, the Howa 1500 is simply a great rifle.

 

[oldman10mm]

Husqvarna made the Model A thru Model D for S&W. Then Howa took over for the Model 1500s', 1600s', 1700s'.
Some of the Howas' have a recall for the 'bolt'. Only the bolt has to be sent to Howa for the recall. The modified recall corrected bolt has a 'prick punch' on the underside of the bolt handle. Not all S/Ns' have a recall.

Home Page.

 

[pmosley]

I have hunted with an early, 1996 Howa 1500 chambered in 270 for over 10 years.

High quality, Japanese craftsmanship, when such was attainable.


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[oldman10mm]

Japanese long arms are still high quality and craftsmanship as domestic long arms companies (except for a few specialty manufacturers) quality went downhill.

 

[Igiveup]

I purchased a 1500 in 30-06. The stock is listed as "deluxe" and is quite nice. I bought a Howa rubber over molded stock and use that stock while hunting. Good rifle, accurate.