FIELD TEST

I like the scratch-resistant, satin black/ blued finish on the action and barrel.

Being non-reflective, it is perfect for hunting and stealthy stalking.

The Nikko Metor 3-12x56 30mm illuminated scope was fitted via a 6in onepiece aluminium-blacked Picatinny rail and the quick-detachable 30mm low mounts are supplied as part of the package.

As expected, accuracy was good. Lightweight Winchester 55-gr Ballistic Silvertips shot 1in groups at 3,406fps and 1,417ft/lb energy, while the good all-rounder Hornady SST 75-gr ST loads shot 3,308fps and 1,822ft/lb with three shots in 0.85in.

A lead-free option is the Federal

Barnes Triple-shock 85-gr bullets, which shot 3,061fps for 1,769ft/lb and 1.25in groupings.

For large-species deer, then either the Norma Soft Point 100-gr, at 2,874fps and 1,834ft/lb with 0.95in groups, or the Geco Softpoint 105-gr, at 2,773fps, 1,793ft/lb and 1in groups, would suffice.

Best reloads for red deer were a 100-grain bullet minimum, so the Sierra Gameking with 44.25 grains of RL19 powder achieved 2,864fps and 1,821ft/lb energy and sub-inch groupings.

A good lead-free reload option is the Hornady 80-gr GMX bullet, which shot

The free-floated barrel, being hammerforged, is hard-wearing and offers good accuracy straight from the box. The rifling twist rate is 1:10in, so bullet weights from 55-gr to 105-gr are stabilised, but a 1:9in twist would be better for weights over 100-gr. 3,151fps for 1,764ft/lb with a load of 47.5 grains of RL19 powder and 1in accuracy.

In the field is where it all comes together. Up in Scotland and after hinds, I had to use 100-gr bullets, but I had no concerns regarding performance. The Howa Contractor SP is one of those rifles that just gets on with it and allows you to get stuck in without worrying about damaging it.

Even with the moderator and scope fitted, the Contractor handled very well and felt balanced in most shooting positions. Stalking through the thick woodlands, the rifle felt right at home. Knowing the accuracy and zero were perfect, I was able to either shoot off sticks or from a seated position.

A well-worn trail from fields to cover proved fruitful and a well-fed hind soon ambled cautiously down the track. When she reached an opening, the Contractor dropped her instantly.