06-21-2021, 05:04 PM
(This post was last modified: 06-22-2021, 01:01 AM by Oso Polaris.)
6.5G Master Wrote:So depending on how well the CZ stock fits me its close to a wash on price and weight to fix the bottom metal issue on a Howa vs a 16 CZ out of the box. I guess it then comes down to the 16 vs. 20 barrel. I should have said originally but I will not be handloading so Im limited to factory ammo. Will that be a factor in getting either of the two to work well?
Regardless of pricing, I my mind it still isn't a wash. My personal comparison goes something like this:
1) Customer Service/ Factory Support: well-established professional service & support by CZ / non-existing service by Howa or LGS (US importer)... simply the worst in industry. If there is a problem then assume you are eating it.
2) Aftermarket Parts/Upgrades: well-established aftermarkets upgrades/accessories for the CZ / practically nonexistent for Howa Mini. There's a member who is struggling to get a replacement extractor for his rifle... unacceptable.
3) Trigger: fantastic and adjustable to sub #1 on CZ / nothing to right home about and something to definitely upgrade.... luckily Timney started producing one recently for Howa Mini so there is maybe 2 options available.
4) Magazine: I really like having a removable magazine. The CZ is solid metal, compact and convenient to carry a spare 5 rounder in your pocket / Howa's rifle is crippled by the unreliable POS plastic Mag... forcing you to upgrade to aftermarket bottom metal
The only thing of value on a Howa Mini is the action ... nice size and decent construction. Everything else you need to build a rifle, you will need to source from another provider. Maybe this seems overly-harsh, but by comparison there have been no changes/modifications required for any of my CZ's to function reliably. In the long run I know that I can repair or upgrade my CZ, but I do not have this confidence with the Howa Mini. This is important since there aren't aftermarket parts.
If I am desiring a field gun then it should be reliable out of the box. If it requires a gunsmith to address any and all issues then I may as well have a full custom for the added frustration and expense.