Hunting Rifle for My Son

[MAG00]

I have stuck in my head the following option. Mainly due to the aftermarket support, the stainless option for a kid, and such. I know it's the more expensive option that I have in mind though.

I know there are other options and ideas, but I would like feedback on this specific idea.

• Remington 700 SPS stainless .243. I may be able to get it from a friend at costs $600.
• Drop it into a Boyds wood thumbhole stock $100. i know there are better, but this will work for he money.
• Does anybody know if the factory Remington SPS stock can be cut down 1" or will the makeup/structure of it now allow for it.
• Is the an adjustable recoil pad that could be ordered and installed onto a wooden stock which would allow for adjustability? If so, can anyone provide a link to one?
• My gunsmith would then charge me about $50 to cut teh barrel down to 22" and cut the stock LOP down and put a new recoil pad on.
• I've already got a scope for it.
• Total would be $750.

I have it narrowed down to either the above or a Tikka T3 Compact .243. The Tikka isn't stainless, but I wouldn't have any additional work required other than mounting a scope. I looked at the Ruger American Stainless compact .243 but the barrel is 18" and that is shorter that i would like to get.

Would like input on my idea/questions above as well as input on the Tikka T3 Compact.

Thanks.

 

[surjimmy]

Tikka T3, Hands down.

 

[CB900F]

As far as the gun itself, I have several Tikka's and like them. But, I'd also strongly consider the advice you've been given regarding the fit of the gun to the child.

My children are now grown, but at one time I was in your position. What I did was buy the .22 rifle (I'd suggest a CZ Scout) and told my son that his behavior would control when he got his first centerfire hunting rifle. Good behavior and growth resulted in him achieving that goal in three years. He didn't know it, but his increase in stature had as much to do with getting the gun as did conduct. He was, and still is for that matter, a pretty good kid.

900F