Japanese Howa Type 20

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Japanese Howa Type 20​


With the current right wing Japanes government and the revision of the ban on arms sale outside of Japan, maybe some enterprising US company can convince a Honda-ized version of type 20.

It is called type 20 because it is type classified in 2020.

See why FN finally moved their train to ARKA from SCAR - because they are behind the curve


https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/potd-proposed-updates-for-the-japanese-howa-type-20-44827105

POTD: Proposed Updates for the Japanese Howa Type 20​

Eric B

by Eric B

Published: April 10th, 2026

potd proposed updates for the japanese howa type 20

Howa Corporation has publicly presented a set of proposed modifications for the Type 20 rifle, expanding the platform’s modularity and adaptability. The package includes an extended handguard designed to increase available space for accessories and improve forward mounting options while still retaining compatibility with a bayonet.

potd proposed updates for the japanese howa type 20



An AR-style stock adapter has also been introduced, allowing compatibility with a wider range of adjustable stock systems. Together, these updates suggest a shift toward greater flexibility in how the Type 20 can be configured, aligning it more closely with modern modular service rifle standards.

potd proposed updates for the japanese howa type 20


The suppressor looks like a B&T X-Print and features a “HOWA Type 20” logotype. It looks like it’s using the UMN (Universal Mount – NATO) system, which allows the suppressor to attach directly to standard NATO flash hiders or compensators. It can be installed or removed without tools, offering a simple, field-ready solution.

potd proposed updates for the japanese howa type 20

If you were setting up a service rifle, what upgrades would be your priority?
 
I wonder if HOWA USA will make a domestic version eventually. The politics shift in Japan is pretty big. This is the time to make it happen.

this will kill Carmel and Makasi if it is ever made available. This is the perfect sample of the type of architecture aka the box in the extrusion tube push rod gun - but pay attention to the details. They run 3 cross bolts to fix the trunnion inside the tube, likely steel. This is what I like about b&T APC. And how they use geometry to lower the receiver height. Simple and no BS.

I like how they actually took all the best, without adding their own funky non-working Japanese quirks like in the past. Most likely feedbacks from working with the US militaries.
 
They only order like 7K to 8K a year. - that's like 28 rifle per working day. So they only run a single hammer forging machine like 930 to 400pm business hours only? They should be able to triple that output if they are seriously about replacing all old rifles like 250K units.
 
Interesting enough it has a simple reciprocating charging handle like SCAR. Likely the changing handle is connected to the BGC directly and reversible, with slots on both sides of the receiver.

Think it said Japanese Ground Defence Force First Amphibious Mobile Brigade in training.
 
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