Tikka T3 Varmint

[hawk45]

So I was looking for a sporter rifle but after more thinking, I'll be using this more at the range than on long hunting trips in the mountains and the heavier barrel may be a better and more enjoyable choice for the mostly range trips. I'll just have to deal with the extra weight or get another rifle solely for hunting later if/when I start doing more.

I've been looking at the Tikka T3's and saw the have a varmint model that may be able to do dual purpose. I know the Lites are very light and balence well for off-hand shooting. But I can't find a varmint model local so have to rely on you guys that own one for feedback.

I know they shoot well as I've read those reviews.. but just wondering about the stock and how the rifle balances off-hand? I also think it is about 1.5lbs heavier than the T3 Lite and just wondering how much difference that feels slung if you have both to compare?

Thanks,
John

 

[ricehombre]

Only have experience with the Tikka Tactical but it looks close to the varmint model. I have a 24" barrel, threaded on the end, and it shoots lights out in 308, very well balanced.

 

[rbernie]

I have a Tikka T3 Varmint stainless in 223 (1:8" twist). I love it; it is superbly accurate and very well finished. It makes bad ammo shoot well.

It feels like it weighs a lot more than 1 1/2lb more than my T3 Lightweight Stainless, but it's certainly carry-able. IMO, it is simply too muzzle-heavy for any significant amount of offhand shooting, especially so if you mount a bipod on it. The extra weight is all in front of the receiver ring.

 

[hawk45]

Thanks guys!

Rbernie, I was looking at the T3 Lite/Hunter series. How would those do from the bench? I know they will shoot great.. but just wondered about barrel heating up fast being a sporter and causing fliers. Thoughts? Experiences?

 

[rbernie]

The T3 Light does not seem to suffer significantly from barrel heat issues, but I generally don't run more than one round through it every 30-60 seconds. If I'm shooting faster than that, it's because I'm practicing offhand shooting and barrel heat is the least of my concerns.

I've never had a Tikka that was not an absolute tackdriver.