Which Tikka Model to choose?

[agsky]

I'm completely new to high powered rifles and I've narrowed my search down to the Tikka T3 and the Browning A-Bolt Hunter both in 7mm Rem Mag. I live in North Texas right now but I'd like to get a rifle that would be alright for most conditions in case I move to another state. First question is, I understand what the differences are between the different Tikka models, but which one is realisitcally the best for my current and future needs. I like the look of the Hunter but I would think the T3 Lite SS would be better in the future if I decided to hunt in colder/wetter weather. Other than the weight and "all weather" aspect, is there any benefit to either model. Since I'd be using a magnum cartridge, the lighter gun doesn't really appeal to me, but I like the Lite SS because it's "all weather". Another question I had was I've heard many people talk about getting the heavy barreled T3. Is there a specific T3 with a heavier, thicker, more accurate barrel, or are all the barrels the same.

 

[hoghunting]

I have the T3 Lite in blue. Haven't had any problems with the finish. If I were doing it again, I would probably get the SS.

Tikka does make a heavy barrel Varminter rifle and the Tactical model also has a heavy barrel.

For hunting purposes, you don't need the heavy barrel. The T3 is amazingly accurate in any of the barrel configurations.

One recommendation - change the recoil pad with a Limbsaver. They make a fitted pad for the Tikka. Just take the original pad off and replace it with the Limbsaver.

 

[bigcim]

tikka 7mm laminated stainless steel

 

[Karbon]

TIKKA SS laminated , sure do love mine...

 

[Radjxf]

I dare say the Tikka should outshoot the Browning for FAR less money. I have the "low-end" Tikka T-3 Lite 7mm Mag. This gun has one of the slickest actions, best trigger (adjustable), pillar bedding and is amazingly accurate. I've shot numerous sub-MOA groups off sandbags, some nearly "one-hole".
Only downers are the cheesy stock and the light weight makes it have fairly stout recoil for a 7mm. Can't recommend one enough!

 

[Karbon]

I shot a Tikka (.308) side by side a new Browning, and a Rem 700 (I forget which factory model) just last weekend. ~60 rounds total

Granted it was off a rest, no wind, and with the same hand load my Uncle whipped up. (130grain).

Tikka T3 Lite, 7 shots right at one inch, touch over, five shot groups under an inch. (3x9x40 Burris FFII)

Browning (White Med), 2 inch, 7 shot, 1.5in three shot, (6.5x20 Zeiss)

Rem 700 (model???) with a aftermarket trigger group and heavy barrel...
7 shot group 1.25, 5 shot 1 inch, 3 shot under 1 inch. (3x[10 or 12]x50 Leupold VXIII)
This was the gun that the loads were developed for, and this was my Uncle's fav hunter/plinker. He shot a tad better with this one , the others he shot nearly the same as I did.

The browning was just a safe queen, and the Tikka was a raffle gun he WAS going to sell. Needless to say, he's selling the Brownie and buying another Zeiss for the Tikka. Though he did like the looks of the ss laminated Tikka better (like mine...hahahaha....)

For whatever it's worth....