The Howa 1500 Thumbhole features a laminate thumbhole stock that improves grip consistency and bedding stability compared to standard synthetic stocks. The thumbhole design reduces grip tension variation between shots, which can improve long-range accuracy. A practical competitive shooting and hunting configuration at a modest premium over the standard synthetic. Type: Rifle Action: Bolt-Action Caliber: .308 Win Capacity: 5 Year introduced: 2005, Japan Weight: 8.5 oz Overall length: 42.5" Status: Active Intended use: Hunting, Target Shooting