Your opinion about Tikka T3

[sidelock]

I'm considering a T3 in 30-06 or 308 WIN for general target shooting and occasional deer and boar hunting. I intend to mount a Leupold VX2 3-9x40 scope on it.

I read many reports that it has a very smooth bolt action with 1 MOA accuracy out of the box with the right ammo.

Now I'd like to hear what you gentlemen have to say about Tikka T3 based on your first hand experiences.

A little back ground about who's asking this question, since I'm new here,
I'm mostly a clay target shotgun shooter, had some experiences in collecting and shooting pre-'64 Winchester model 70s, but not an avid hunter.

Your comments are appreciated.

[QXSOUP]

I have a T3 Hunter (which is the wood stocked version) in 30.06. It is the most accurate centerfire rifle that I own. Ditch the included rings (the screws are crap) and get either a set of Tally rings or a DNZ one piece mount. The SAKO optilock rings are another option but they are pretty expensive.

You will enjoy it.

[madjack956]

I bought a Tikka T3 in .308 years ago, mounted SWFA SS scope on it and shot .360 groups (if memory serves) from a bench with it at 100 yards first time out with FGGM ammo.

The action is smooth and the rifle is accurate. I worked up my own reloads and have repeatedly shot groups in the .300 range.

Im not by any means an experienced rifleman or an expert on what makes for a good or bad rifle, but I like what it does out of the box.

[JMP]

It's a great little rifle that isn't too expensive and will shoot fine right out of the box if you get a higher end model. I'd suggest the T3 Sporter in 6.5 Swede or 308 as I do not think they make it in 30-06. Unfortunately, I believe they no longer import the T3 Tactical in 308 with the 24" barrel. They only have T3 Tacticals now in 20", which isn't long enough for 308. The upside is that the T3 Tac uses the same barrels made for the Sako TRG 22, but didn't quite make it. I think that's why they sell them as 20" so they could cut off a blem.

Generally, in 30-06, the models are more geared toward the hunting only styles for the most part, which will come with barrels that are a bit light for target shooting. Since you said you want mostly target with some hunting, the T3 Sporter with a 24" barrel is the way to go as the barrel is heavy enough for target shooting and not too heavy for hunting. Generally, folks don't cross-over for hunting and target, but the T3 Sporter is a reasonable compromise. Some folks think the stocks are a bit ugly (the orange), but they seem to shoot pretty darn good for the price.

[Divernhunter]

I have 2 T-3 lite rifles and my daughter just got one in 308Win. Great rifles. I used the rings which came with the rifles and have had zero problems and mine have been shoot very much.
The Leupold scope you stated is a great combo for the rifle. That is what is on all 3 of ours.
I would suggest the 308 for a number of reasons but the 30-06 will also be good. Your choice.

The only thing I would (and have on all of ours) change on the rifle is to buy and install(simple just 2 screws) a Limbsaver Direct Replacement Recoil pad. They really make shooting one much nicer.
They are accurate and make great hunting rifles.

[sidelock]

Thank you gentlemen for your valued comments, I think I'm on the right track.

[ElvenSoul]

Savage Hog Hunter is a lot of gun for $$$$

The new Mossberg Patriot has a lot going for it.

[SB1964]

I have the Tikka T3 (.308) stainless fluted barrel. Super smooth action, great trigger & accurate. Leopold VX2 3x9x40, sitting on a DNZ mount. I'd like a stronger 50mm scope however!

[JMP]

Savage Hog Hunter is a lot of gun for $$$$

The new Mossberg Patriot has a lot going for it.

The OP asked about the Tikka T3. I'd consider the Tikka to be a cut above either of those options.

[Varg Vikernes]

I have a Tikka T3 Lite, and the action is quite a bit smoother than the Savage my buddy had. Guarenteed accuracy out of the box. A very good option for your first hunting gun. Can be a decent base gun for a long range gun

[WyattandDoc]

I have the Tikka T3 Lite SS in 30-06. Mounted a Vortex Diamondback HD
4-16x44 with DNZ base/rings (Single unit). Also put the LimbSaver on it. A must in my opinion. The trigger and action are simply amazing out of the box. Smoother than any other rifle in the same price range.

Have carried it for hours at a time in the field with no issues.. Extremely accurate with factory ammo. Mine likes 165 over the 150 and 180.

[NaClAddict]

I have a T3 light in .270. Shoots great, great to carry in the field. Also running a leupold vx-2 3-9 x 40. Leaves nothing to be desired by me.

I'll second the recommendation for the limbsaver. The factory pad looks and feels great, it's performance is lacking though.

[TMB 1]

Savage Hog Hunter is a lot of gun for $$$$

^^ Very good if you're not stuck on getting Tikka.

[Bungi]

I have the T3 lite stainless in 308.

It is very accurate and I am very pleased with it.

I use the Warne rings on mine - Much better than the rings that come with the rifle.

[sidelock]

First, I want to thank all of you for sharing your first hand experiences, second, seems all of you dislike the ring it came with, I wouldn't have any problem buying another pair of rings, but just curious what's wrong with those rings?
Thank you again.