Hey Jack, I’m sure there are other members who have vastly more “hands on” Howa experience than myself. However, accuracy (or rather inaccuracy), problems generally follow many of the same modus operandi.

For starters, has this been with only one type off ammunition or have you already tried several brands, types, etc.? What you mentioned about removing from the chassis: Yes.. that is a good idea definitely! In addition, I encourage people with new or used rifles to always loosen & remove the the scope & rings, check the base screws & retorque everything to proper specs themselves! But yes, check the chassis for flashing material or extra material at the seems in the bedding.

Honestly, the kind of inconsistencies you are getting sounds like scope and/or mounting problems. So that’s precisely where I’d start.