At the end of 2025, Tokyo Marui unveiled several new replicas, including the new Evolt system and a gas-powered replica of the HOWA Type 20 rifle (The Evolt series, i.e. NGRS 2.o replicas from Tokyo Marui, are coming), which was adopted by the Japan Self-Defense Forces as a modern service rifle, replacing the Type 89.
During the Tokyo Marui Festival 2025, the OTS (Operation Training Services) training variant was presented, intended exclusively for law enforcement and other services for training purposes. It was also announced at the time that this version would not be commercially available to civilian customers.
This makes the news of the development and launch of a standard version intended for regular players all the more welcome. The new gas-powered HOWA Type 20 replica from Tokyo Marui has been available on the market since August 5. The replica itself is based on the already legendary MWS platform, which is widely used by both Tokyo Marui and other manufacturers.
The replica accurately reproduces the original design, featuring a fiber-glass-reinforced polymer lower receiver, as well as an aluminum upper receiver and handguard. It also replicates characteristic features such as the dedicated controls, including the fire selector (with positions at 0, 45, and 135 degrees), the charging handle located beneath the top rail and capable of being switched to the opposite side, enlarged ambidextrous magazine release levers, and ambidextrous bolt catch levers.
The design is complemented by a dedicated M-LOK handguard and a fixed stock with adjustable length of pull and cheek rest height (although there is a clear resemblance to the stocks used on SCAR rifles by FN Herstal). The replica uses MWS-system magazines with a capacity of 35 rounds. A replica of a STANAG magazine is included, although the original rifle uses PMAG magazines manufactured by Magpul.
It is worth noting that the replica was developed in official cooperation with the original manufacturer, HOWA Machinery. This cooperation covered not only the dimensions and disassembly mechanism, but also the correct weight of individual replica components and their finish.
At present, the replica is available exclusively on the Japanese market, priced at 140,000 yen, equivalent to approximately 757,40 EUR.
Photos: Tokyo Marui
