Talk me into a TRG22

[Fireman1291]

So I want an out of the box european bolt action that is more accurate than me. It will be used for shooting at 100-1000 yards and hunting as well as a rifle can review host for my YT channel. fireman1291 - YouTube

I keep leaning towards the SAKO over the AI for the lighter weight and smoother bolt operation and trigger. (arguable I'm sure)

So to those who have owned one, was it magical or will a Rem700 thrown in a HS be just as good? I'm a sucker for perfect engineering and machining hence why I love the tales of smoother than smooth bolt operation, etc.

Thanks!

 

[HodgdonExtreme]

TRG 22 >>>>> Rem700 in terms of refinement and the presentation of "quality".

The TRGs are definitely nice rifles, but for the price, no way would I choose one over an AI.

 

[Fireman1291]

TRG 22 >>>>> Rem700 in terms of refinement and the presentation of "quality".

The TRGs are definitely nice rifles, but for the price, no way would I choose one over an AI.

So you've shot both. The AI is heavier so hunting is harder but I'm not a bitch, lol I can lug a rifle around. What makes the AI worth it more? I also like the low center of gravity bipod on the Sako.

I haven't shot either so I'm wanting reviews from owners of both rifles.

 

[HodgdonExtreme]

First let me say the Sako is really a nice rifle and the trigger is the best factory trigger I'm aware of. The bolt is slick and they shoot really nice. I also prefer the Sako bipod over all others I've used - which includes pretty much all of them.

That's the good.

The bad, in my opinion (and I sure hope not to ruffle feathers here), is the Sako screams light duty to me. The plastic bolt knob is fastened to the bolt lever by a plastic push pin, and mine loosened up from normal use, and now my bolt knob falls off easily. I haven't gotten around to "repairing" it correctly. It is personal preference, but I don't like a safety that requires you to have your finger inside the triggergaurd, and pull rearward with your trigger finger. The stock skins on the Sako scratch easily and yellow polyurethane shows through like a 1980's japanese-car bumper. The accessories are insanely priced. Overall, the TRGs seem "chintsy" to me.

In comparison the AI is built and feels like a bank vault. It screams M1 Abrams. Obviously, they have a great reputation and shoot awesome. The trigger isn't as good as a TRG, but it is still a nice two stage trigger. The 3 position safety on the AW/AX/AT/AXMC models disconnects the sear (as it should) like the old Mausers and Win70s. Barrels are mail-order DIY affair. They are an incredible rifle built to last your lifetime, your son's lifetime, his son's lifetime, etc etc.

There is a great thread kicking around with a very detailed review/comparison of the AIAW vs. the TRG, let me see if I can dig it up. It'd be well worth you reading it.

With the AIAT soon available for under $4k, it is well worth the smallish price premium over the Sako, I think.

 

[HodgdonExtreme]

Here you go, read through this: http://www.snipershide.com/shooting...l-aiaw-vs-sako-trg-22-my-experience-both.html

 

[WildBill3/75]

You can't go wrong with a TRG....I'd also give the new AI AT a good looking at.

 

[jbell]

I own both and love both. I will agree for REALLY tough use the AIAW/AX or the new AT/AXMC is a better choice. However if I wanted a lighter, less expensive, but still insanely capable rifle the TRG would be a no brainer. TRG has a better trigger, and IMO a better magazine. I love the TRG bipod, and the ergonomics of the TRG are second to none to me and I have put many of thousands of rounds down range with both.

Also IMO the TRG (and AI for that matter) is hands down better than any 700 or clone no matter who builds it. There again I have owned MANY MANY with a LOT of time behind the various versions of the 2 lug 700 style actions.

 

[jbell]

Also I forgot to mention. If you live around Portland Maine up to Augusta Maine you are more than welcome to check out my TRG and AW side by side before you decide.

 

[Fireman1291]

I love this forum.

And now I can't decide what the hell I want LOL!

 

[MetroJethro]

Fireman,

My first .308 was the TRG-22 that I purchased in 2004 for $2,250 brand new. After thousands of rounds, I decided I wanted a change. Last month I purchase the AI AE MKIII since the prices had come down. I have taken the AE to the gun club 5 times so far. Probably not enough time with the AE as compared to my time with the TRG, but I can draw a few conclusions.

-Fit and finish on the TRG is amazing. Bolt is like glass, stock is very comfortable, trigger is easily adjustable and shoots like a dream. With Federal Gold Match 168g, and I was paying attention, I can get .4 to .45 MOA. My best group was around .34. For me, that is saying something as I tend to suck at shooting.

-AE is a tank. You get the impression that you could pry open a door with the barrel and it would still shoot well. Trigger is good, however you are not supposed to self adjust without professional supervision. Plastic skins take a little getting use to, and 600 grit sand paper helps with the seams. Specially under the trigger guard. Shoots very well and is showing great promise with the hand loads. Specially the 150g SMKBT. The AE is more comfortable to shoot prone, and the TRG is more comfortable shooting from a bench.

I equate TRG to a super sleek F22 and the AE to A10 (Warthog). Both are awesome systems.

If for some reason you feel that you need more than one magazine, then AI has the advantage. TRG magazines run between $200 and $250. AI mags are less that $90.

Tough choice, but definitely a first world problem. You will probably end up with both at some point.

Let me know if you have any questions, I would be happy to discuss off line.

Chad.

 

[Rotortuner]

Something that hasnt been mentioned yet is the TRG's 60 deg bolt throw vs the 90 deg rem 700. i love the shorter bolt throw. action is super smooth right out of the box. mine shoots .25-.5 all day long. trigger - awesome.

i have only shot an ai once, so my comparison is very limited. but from what i gather mirrors the same as others. ai is heavier and more tank like but for what i do and probably for what your doing hunting etc TRG is more than tough enough. it is used as an actual military fielded weapon by several countries so it cant be to dainty. after shooting the ai, i personally prefer the ergonomics of the trg, it fits me better, i thought the trg has a better trigger and magazine.

 

[jbell]

Well speaking bout the bolt lift. I love a 60 degree lift and never want to go back to a 90. The AI and TRG are both 3 lug actions so same - same there. However where the TRG shines is in the effort required to cock the action (lift the bolt). The TRG is super slick out of the box and gets better with time, and the AI are a bit rough out of the box and become great over time. But the one thing that don't change is the effort required to cock the action. The TRG is hands down lighter than the AI's and I am sure that the AI are that way by design with the heavy firing pin spring to ensure proper ignition even with sketchy ammo.

Both systems are some of the best offered in the world bar none, and I would love to hear someone attempt to argue that. They both have slightly different design features that can be seen as both a negative or a positive depending on your application. But one thing for sure if you pick either you will have made a good choice...

 

[Katahdin]

I own a TRG-22 and have shot an AW. Yes the AW is heavier, however I prefer pistol grip / thumb hole over goose neck stock any day. I like the AW magazines as well. The TRG is a fine rifle and shoots well. I would never pay the money for an AW however the new AT has my full attention and I may just have to buy one.

 

[Fireman1291]

Thanks all. This rifle will wear a SWR Specwar suppressor as well. My budget will be very low for a scope after I purchase the rifle but I will just wait and save up.

 

[sr15match]

If budget is a concern like with many folks, the Sako has the upper hand over the AI. All but one person was quick to compare the TRG to the AIAW & AX. The only AI close to the price point of the TRG is an AE and even then you can buy a new TRG for sub-$3k from Euro Optic if you call and get a Hide discount. If you don't need a build like a tank rifle the TRG makes sense. If needing a tank, have the budget and are a fan of the AI chassis ergonomics than go for it. You have to be comfortable behind what you're shooting.

It's a tough comparison............. For me and the realities of what I'd put a rifle though abuse wise the TRG is my choice.

 

[Fireman1291]

If budget is a concern like with many folks, the Sako has the upper hand over the AI. All but one person was quick to compare the TRG to the AIAW & AX. The only AI close to the price point of the TRG is an AE and even then you can buy a new TRG for sub-$3k from Euro Optic if you call and get a Hide discount. If you don't need a build like a tank rifle the TRG makes sense. If needing a tank, have the budget and are a fan of the AI chassis ergonomics than go for it. You have to be comfortable behind what you're shooting.

It's a tough comparison............. For me and the realities of what I'd put a rifle though abuse wise the TRG is my choice.

Hit the nail on the head.

 

[supratt96]

I have never shot an AI, but I have had a TRG for a few years now and it's a great rifle. Very comfortable to shoot, extremely accurate, great trigger and plenty tough enough for the use you outlined.

If the hunting you plan to do involves much walking, I would definitely take a TRG over an AI since it's 4 pounds lighter. That being said, even the TRG is pretty heavy for a hunting rifle. When I hunt, the TRG stays home and I take my Cooper. It's plenty accurate for hunting and is much lighter than a TRG. It also has way better maneuverability in the field. Both the TRG and the AI are big rifles that in my opinion are not really well suited for hunting.

I just picked up a DTA, or at least part of it. I have the receiver but I'm still waiting on the barrel which is being made by SAC (.260 Rem). If you haven't considered one of those you should check them out before you make a decision. They are about the same weight as a TRG but much more compact. Accuracy is reputed to be every bit as good as a TRG or AI. Barrel/caliber changes can be accomplished in less than a minute.

 

[samnev]

I own both the TRG 22 and AIAW in 308. As others have said the trigger on the TRG and bolt smoothness is a bit better than the AIAW. However the AIAW is imo a lot more rugged. The AIAW in my hands at least is more accurate than the TRG. The smallest group 5 shot 100 yard group I have ever shot with the TRG is just under 0.3 moa. The smallest group with the AIAW is 0.167 moa. On an average basis the AIAW will shoot 0.25 groups on a good day. The TRG 22 0.35 moa. on a good day. So if the small difference in group size is important the AIAW at almost 2X the price is the way to go. If not i'd choose the TRG. I shoot my AIAW much more than the TRG now as it fits me better. Some other say the TRG fits them better. You can't go wrong with either rifle but the AIAW would be my choice if I could only have 1 rifle.
I would not use either for hunting if it involved humping them for any distance. That is were a nice 700 BDL would come in handy.

 

[HOGTOOTH5R]

Like Supratt96 stated above. Both the AI and TRG are IMHO Much Too Heavy for Hunting use. You need the toughness and rugged design in Combat but I bet even the troops using them don't mind a few ponds lighter.

If you want a good hunting rifle with some High Quality Features found in the TRG you might also consider the TIKKA T3 line. SAKO also owns TIKKA and the T3 Tactical uses The Same Exact Barrel as teh TRG Rifles (Cold Hammer Forged). It's probably the Best Known Kept Secrete that the TIKKA makes Very Accurate Factory Rifles.

It also features the Closed Style Actions same as the TRG and AI with the 60 Degree Bolt Lift as well. I own Both TIKKA T3 Tactical and TRG22 and the Actions are pretty much the Same Smoothness on Both. TRG Triggers are Much Better but at 3 Times the Rifle Cost. Furthermore the TIKKA Factory Single Stage Triggers are one of the Best I've Ever used and that's comparing to some of the Aftermarket offerings too.

Accuracy wise, I'd say if you're a good shooter then you'll notice the difference is Very Minimal. I've shot plenty of 1/2 MOA or better groups with Both rifles repeatedly.

Last but not least, the Factory Form TIKKA T3 is Much Lighter than the TRG and Even More So than the AI. For hunting you can't ask for a better off the shelf option for the price. And when you're ready, there's also a rapid growth of After Market support for the TIKKA with both KRG, Manner, MCM all offering upgrade stock/chassis options for the TIKKA.

It has the traditional safety located near the top by the bolt and easily self adjusted trigger with drop bottom magazine. I believe the latest T3 Tactical Model also uses the TRG Mags and comes Standard with a Threaded Barrel.

Both TRG and AI are Awesome Rifles and special purposely created for the theater of War. However for every day Hunting/Range Fun the TIKKA is a Great Option which still offers a lot of the High End Features you want at a down to earth price. Save the Extra Cash and put it towards a Better Scope which in my opinion is Just as Important as the Actual Rifle itself.

Just my 2 Cent.

HOG.

 

[Super Bee 950]

A TRG will do this out of the box. What more do you want?

 

[JayMazee]

I believe the latest T3 Tactical Model also uses the TRG Mags and comes Standard with a Threaded Barrel.

I did not know that about the mag.

Tikka T3 CTR

But yea, looking at the pics, that knob on the magazine is definitely there for the TRG. Hmmmm... I wonder if the mags will still be $150-200 with the CTR coming out??? That's a definite issue with the CTR if the mags are still TRG priced. I'm considering cutting a CTR down to replace my Ruger Scout.

But yea, Fireman, if you want anything but a prone rifle, I'd probably suggest you skip the AI or TRG. They're just too heavy to use as field guns for normal people, I mean there is probably some guy that can shoot from within 100y of his house that will tell you they're awesome for hunting, or the guy that hunts from his truck, but really, just no. There is a picture on Google images when you search TRG of a hunting dog sitting next to a BMW, a TRG leaning up against that, and a dead fox laying foreground... That to me represents the type of hunting "one simply does with the Sako rifle".

My recommendation would be the Tikka as well. You get all the cool guy features all the kids talk about here (60 degree bolt lift, Sako extractor... it's not a Remington), they're light, affordable, they're quite nice really. And, if you absolutely must have a tactical looking gun you can replace the stock with an AI AT chassis, or more apt for that gun the KRG W3C and if light is still a concern, the KRG Xray, among others (Roedale is ligher and cheaper than AI, uses ViperSkins). You have options, just not 700-style options.

I'd have a Tikka as my go-to right now if I didn't have a smoking deal on a Defiance action being built up.

I've seen your posts on other forums, I'm pretty sure the Tikka is for you.

The issues I know of with the Tikka, are that the long actions will likely never take AI mags. The short actions will with a stock/chassis change, but it'll likely not happen for long actions. There is talk about someone making a new mag, but that has issues in itself. The other issue with Tikka is BERETTA. They're assholes about importing what you want - no matter what you want. If you can get the Tikka you want at gun store or EuroOptic or whoever, go for it, but if you can only find what you want on Tikka's Finnish site, good luck with that!

 

[matt33]

Is Beretta importing the Tikka T3 CRT to the US? A Ruger GSR is on my short list, but as a TRG22 owner, I'd much rather the Tikka. This is the first I've heard of the CTR version.

 

[Fireman1291]

Is Beretta importing the Tikka T3 CRT to the US? A Ruger GSR is on my short list, but as a TRG22 owner, I'd much rather the Tikka. This is the first I've heard of the CTR version.

I second everyone opinions. That CTR is PERFECT for my needs and I love the new mag and barrel thread pitch. When does it come out for sale in the US? I assume with that thread pitch it was made for our market.

 

[bone collector]

TRG's are great rifles, a TRG was my first Tactical Rifle, problem is that there are many great rifles and so little time.