Another Newbie thread about which action to use for PRS

[Redshako]

I know this question has been asked in different ways but I am curious about 3 specific questions?

I have been shooting NRL22 the last year and I am considering jumping over to shooting some of the PRS and NRL matches in my local area (There are 2 different regional club matches a month plus 2 national matches in my local area this year)

Last year I put together a simple 6.5CR rig as a starter

• Rem 700 with threaded factory 6.5CR barrel
• TriggerTech Special
• KRG Bravo
• Seekins Precision Rail
• Bravo stock jewelry (Arca rail, magpul QD cups, etc.)
• Hellfire Comp

The trigger is wonderful, I am very happy with the stock (and now I have 2 more Bravos on other rifles), but the performance of the rem 700 is so/so (as to be expected).

I know I don't want to spend anymore money trying to improve the Remington action.


I am considering selling the 700 and getting,

• Bighorn Origin & barrel in 6CR into the bravo stock and trigger I have.
• Tikka T3 or T3x action, prefit 6CR barrel & nut, new bravo stock - selling my rem 700 Bravo stock and TT trigger on the PX
• Tikka CTR in 6.5CR and a stock that uses the CTR magazines (I like the double stack TRG style mags) - selling the stock and trigger
• Holding off and getting a South Fork or Tikka TAC A1 later this summer - I dont really love either of these chassis

All of these options work out to be about the same cost except the last one.

I have had Tikka's in the past and will be shooting a Tx1 for NRL22 this coming year. I have always loved shooting them and always regret selling them (usually because they had the wrong size bolt face for my next project). I am leaning towards the Tikka for this reason.

I have not had a chance to use an Origin or other Bighorn action.

Question 1 - How much am I giving up with performance and action smoothness between the Tikka action and the Origin? Assuming barrels and stocks are similar.

Question 2 - Will I be limiting my ability to grow with this gun if I go with the Tikka? I get that this wont be a custom rifle and I will probably want to upgrade as my skill continue to grow. I just don't want something that I can grow on for awhile.

Question 3 - Which option above really makes the most sense to get me shooting PRS/NRL this year?

 

[patriot07]

I don't personally see much or any benefit to paying for more than a Tikka action unless you want to go the multi-cal route.

So assuming this really comes down to a T3/T3x plus aftermarket barrel & Bravo versus a CTR with the factory barrel CTR-specific stock, it really comes down mostly to which stock you want. An aftermarket barrel will likely shoot just a hair better than a CTR barrel, but not enough to make much difference in PRS-style shooting. Do you want a Bravo or do you want something like a Manners? If you want a Bravo, go with #2. If you want something like a Manners, go #3. Personally, I have CTR 6.5CM with a Manners T4A that cost about the same as a Bravo with the mag cost, shipping, etc. counted in (I think it was $600 for the Manners versus $500 for the Bravo+mag), and I wouldn't even consider trading the Manners for a Bravo. The ergonomics of the Manners are amazing. Have a buddy with a Bravo and it's a fine stock too, but my Manners is so comfortable that it makes shooting easier, and I have never felt that way shooting my buddy's Bravo.

 

[b6graham]

tikka and origin are very similar as far as smoothness. but....origin lets you use existing trigger and stock and does have more options down the road. easier prefits. magnum/223/valk boltheads. and i prefer CRF/ME

nothing wrong with a tikka,m i ran one for a while, but put the numbers together and it end up being close to the origin considering what you already have and you're going to rebarrel anyways. and i'd just keep the rem barreled action as a backup anyways

keep any stock tikka trigger if you go that route. theyre phenomenal, especially with a yodave spring

my pick would be origin in bravo. and get 2 6CM button barrels from keystone when he does his sale next week

 

[Rob01]

Rebarrel the 700 action and go shoot. A factory Remington barreled action isn't going to give you great performance but a trued 700 with a good custom barrel like a Bartlein will have you amazed. You have a good set up there so a new barrel is all that is needed. Something around 26" with a good brake will do. If you like the Rem Varmint contour you have stay with it. If not then get what you want.

 

[Steel head]

What exactly was so so with the 700 OP?
Accuracy? If so a good barrel would do wonders.

Action issues?

I’d go the origin route before the Tikka because of all the support and options for the 700 clone actions.

I’m leaving the Savage world because of all those options.

 

[patriot07]

What exactly was so so with the 700 OP?
Accuracy? If so a good barrel would do wonders.

Action issues?

I’d go the origin route before the Tikka because of all the support and options for the 700 clone actions.

I’m leaving the Savage world because of all those options.

Once I got used to a smooth 70 degree bolt lift with 100% reliability, I could never in a million years go back to a 700 with a gritty 90 degree bolt lift and occasional feeding/ejection issues.

I don't personally think the action contributes a ton to accuracy (although a poor one like an un-trued Rem can contribute negatively). So the difference between a Tikka vs Origin is mostly in price (in favor of Tikka) and aftermarket accessories (in favor of Origin). It seems like he enjoys the Bravo, which supports a Tikka action, so there really isn't a very compelling reason to go with the Origin IMHO. There certainly isn't any reason to consider keeping the 700 and spending money to true it up while still having to live with a crummy 90 degree bolt lift and mediocre reliability.

 

[BLKWLFK9]

You can get a kelblys atlas tactical for a little more than an origin. The atlas is a killer action.

 

[Sheldon N]

I'm with Rob on this one, put a new barrel on your current rig and keep shooting. Even a remage style barrel will be a big improvement in accuracy/performance compared to the factory barrel. If you feel like you need to get rid of the R700 action, then my vote would be Bighorn Origin since it would allow you to keep all the other parts/accessories.

Any of these are absolutely capable for letting you grow as a shooter, and won't hold you back.

Biggest benefit is to have a rig that leaves you a budget to shoot a lot, both practice and matches.

 

[Subwrx300]

Yep. Rebarrrel and put left over money into matches, bullets and powder.

One of my first rifles was a Howa 1500 (stock) that evolved overtime into a Manners Howa Criterion Timney custom rifle.

You will be dumbfounded at how much a custom barrel will improve consistentcy.

On the flip side, the most noticable difference of a custom action is smoothness overall. However that smoothness doesn't do you much good until you can perfect running a factory bolt as cleanly as possible. I practice with my Howa (smooth but heavy lift) and compete with an Impact Precision (smoother, lighter and faster). This keeps me in check from cutting corners with running bolt too quickly and disrupting sight picture.

If you have 2500-$3500 minimum burning a hole in your pocket, get a custom action, barrel and start fresh...but if NOT, spend money on a quality barrel and you will be happy for the next 2500+ rounds. (While you plan to build a custom).

 

[camotoe]

Another vote for Kelblys. They are awesome

 

[Redshako]

tikka and origin are very similar as far as smoothness. but....origin lets you use existing trigger and stock and does have more options down the road. easier prefits. magnum/223/valk boltheads. and i prefer CRF/ME

nothing wrong with a tikka,m i ran one for a while, but put the numbers together and it end up being close to the origin considering what you already have and you're going to rebarrel anyways. and i'd just keep the rem barreled action as a backup anyways

keep any stock tikka trigger if you go that route. theyre phenomenal, especially with a yodave spring

my pick would be origin in bravo. and get 2 6CM button barrels from keystone when he does his sale next week

Is the Keystone sale a SH group buy?

Link?

Thanks

 

[JMGlasgow]

Put a good barrel on the Remington and shoot it.

If you absolutely have to have a different action, go with a Remington footprint, it'll be far less hassle to get upgrades in the future.

 

[Sutherlandsd]

I personally would go the bighorn way... Buy a dlc tl3 second hand if money is an issue and be done or go origin.

I've owned tikkas and don't feel the same affection.... It's almost like CrossFit or vegans to discuss actions with Tikka people.

Custom Rifle Action – What The Pros Use

I recently surveyed the top ranked shooters in both the Precision Rifle Series (PRS) and the Nationa...

precisionrifleblog.com

There ya go the most popular actions on the PRS list.

Looks like maybe one guy stayed true to his Tikka...

 

[Dthomas3523]

I agree with @Rob01. Put a barrel on the 700 and maybe have it trued.

If you were considering and had budget for a full new build, I’d suggest other stuff. But for the budget you’re looking at just to get a new barreled action with one of the budget friendly actions, I’d just continue with 700.

I also prefer to stay away from anything not 700 pattern unless you are completely happy with the options available. I shoot AI, but I know and don’t mine that my options are limited to what I can change on it.

Of course, if it’s already in your head that you want a new action, you’re probably gonna scratch that itch.

My advice then would be to try out a lot of actions, save up, and get exactly what you want. Otherwise you’re just going to chase money with more money (ask me how I know).

 

[Sutherlandsd]

I agree with others barrel is the best option. If you are dead set on changing actions then you could do worse than a bighorn. Kelbly good choice also but everyone I know that had one had to have a degree in shop class to get it in a chassis, due to the wierd inlet or hanger. Very smooth action though from a stand up company and also a good choice.

 

[AverageGrunt]

Just a little information what I decided to do since I was in the similar position. I bought a bergara hmr pro to shoot the hell out of and put it in a krg bravo. Love it and shoots great and will do ok while I have a manners stock on order for an impact action and proof barrel. I think you should enjoy what you have and get the best you can afford and try out as many as possible. It took time to try everything but you truly get what you pay for in this game. The origin is awesome for the value so that was the hardest part. Luckily taxes were good and the fiancé got a nice ring meanwhile I got my dream build lol don’t rush it because you have a solid set up. Slowly piece things together with quality.

 

[Chase214]

If you go the tikka route find a used t3x with the correct bolt face put a trigger spring in it and what ever stock/chassis you want and rebarrel you won't be disappointed oh yea sterk bolt handle that's what I did , the only other thing I'm going to do to mine is get the action and bolt NP3 coated

 

[Luvman]

Rebarrel the 700 action and go shoot. A factory Remington barreled action isn't going to give you great performance but a trued 700 with a good custom barrel like a Bartlein will have you amazed. You have a good set up there so a new barrel is all that is needed. Something around 26" with a good brake will do. If you like the Rem Varmint contour you have stay with it. If not then get what you want.

After reading your post this was my thoughts as well. Put the money saved towards ammo and trigger time.

 

[PAYDIRT]

Another vote for the 700 with a decent barrel. What I love about prs style play is that it's generally the Indian not the Arrow. Tons of high dollar rifles never get to shine because of the lack of work/practice by the operator.

 

[patriot07]

Dang. Yall are surprising. I wouldn't touch a 700 if I had stuff like an Origin or Tikka as an option.

I don't think the Origin is a bad option. I just don't think it's a better value than the Tikka. But at least I get it. I don't for a second understand why you'd take the 700 over either one. It's literally inferior in every way, unless you spend a ton of money on it to make it equal...and at that point the Tikka or Origin both would have been cheaper and less hassle.

T3x with a Bartlein and Bravo would shoot lights out, and have a smoother, 70 degree bolt lift, more reliable action than a 700, and with an awesome trigger.

 

[JMGlasgow]

We get it, you're a Tikka fanboy. Having experience with their rifle and their customer service I'd say Tikka sucks. Everyone gushes over their "smoothest bolt". Does that actually matter? How about that Tikka aftermarket huh? Yeah, thought so.

 

[patriot07]

We get it, you're a Tikka fanboy. Having experience with their rifle and their customer service I'd say Tikka sucks. Everyone gushes over their "smoothest bolt". Does that actually matter? How about that Tikka aftermarket huh? Yeah, thought so.

LOL

What accessory are you looking for that's fairly common that is made for a 700 but not for a Tikka?

The 70-degree bolt is grossly superior for cycling. I've used their CS one time when I had a self-created issue. They fixed my bolt for free even though I'd messed it up. Had my bolt back in a week when I had a match in a week and a half. Couldn't ask for more than that. Rem can't even make a decent rifle or shotgun anymore, but sure the 700 is awesome....not.

Not a fan boy. I've owned all 3, and I just know what a better product is. If the Tikka was $1500, I'd say maybe the 700 made sense as a value option that's inferior at a lower price. At the same price basically (or more if you true it up, and way more when you replace the barrel so you can get the same accuracy Tikka has out of the box), you're just buying a worse product for no reason. There is hardly anything you can buy for 700 that you can't buy for a Tikka. I got a T4A stock for my CTR last year for $600 - not sure how I did that since nothing is available...

Actually I'm re-thinking it and maybe your post was satire that I mis-read...?

 

[Luvman]

I’m an AI fan boi and even I recommended the OP use what is already in hand as much as feasible.

The limiting factor is the barrel. You’re going to spend the same on a good tube no matter which route is taken so that’s a wash.

If you buy an origin there’s no need for a new trigger or chassis. An origin is what? 800? Trueing up a 700 is what? 200? Even if you sold off the 700 you’re still spending about 400 more to get the origin. 400 is better spent on ammo and trigger time.

The tikka option makes the least sense in the OP’s case. You have to replace the action, trigger, and chassis to switch.

I get it. Tikkas are smooth and the short bolt throw is nice is well.

If you want a smooth action, good chassis, good trigger, and short bolt throw skip the tikka and jump straight to an AI. There’s no need to change the barrel on an AI. They come with good ones. ? But if you do decide to change it it only requires a phone call, credit card, and 4mm Allen wrench.

 

[JMGlasgow]

Not satire at all. Is there a 2 stage trigger for Tikka? Aftermarket bolt options? How much is a stock replacement bolt for one? Replacement firing pin other than factory? And how about those Sako extractors? Tikka condemned and flagged a rifle that I sent back for a failed bolt. No communication prior to sending it back, just a letter. Said it was an over pressure round without any testing or evaluating (it wasn't). They can't even magnaflux test anymore because they no longer have that capability. No option for me to pay to fix it, just a middle finger. I have a friend who had the exact same thing happen, they replaced his rifle no questions asked. Seems inconsistent to me, which is what I consider shit customer service.

As far as factory barrels, none of my Remington barrels have been bad, and they aren't slow either.

Everyone compares a stock Rem700 to their custom clones. They seem to forget it's a production item, and for the price some quality suffers. Do all receivers need work? No. I think people are too critical of a production rifle

Has anyone actually measured a Tikka action to see if they're actually true? Or is it just an assumption.

As far as I'm concerned, Tikka is no better than Savage, and friends don't let friends buy Savage. I tried polishing that turd too for over a decade. I'll never again own that garbage.

 

[JMGlasgow]

If I could swing it, I'd buy an AI in a heartbeat. I also like Defiance, Nucleus, Bighorn, and GAP. My budget allows for Remington, and I'd have a custom action if I wasn't stupid and sank far too much money on Savage over the years.

 

[Luvman]

If I could swing it, I'd buy an AI in a heartbeat. I also like Defiance, Nucleus, Bighorn, and GAP. My budget allows for Remington, and I'd have a custom action if I wasn't stupid and sank far too much money on Savage over the years.

The OP has a pretty decent setup. Spend the money where it does the most good. A good a consistent barrel and plenty of practice will get you further than swapping actions and chassis.

I only half heartily recommended AI. Since we’re spending the OP’s money I figured I’d recommend what I like. Which happens to make the least cents.

Kinda like recommending he start over with totally different action, chassis, trigger, and barrel.

Hell while we’re at it, OP your glass is probably holding you back too. You might as well sell it off at loss and get the newest latest greatest glass. That’ll get you into top 10 faster as well.

 

[patriot07]

I’m an AI fan boi and even I recommended the OP use what is already in hand as much as feasible.

The limiting factor is the barrel. You’re going to spend the same on a good tube no matter which route is taken so that’s a wash.

If you buy an origin there’s no need for a new trigger or chassis. An origin is what? 800? Trueing up a 700 is what? 200? Even if you sold off the 700 you’re still spending about 400 more to get the origin. 400 is better spent on ammo and trigger time.

The tikka option makes the least sense in the OP’s case. You have to replace the action, trigger, and chassis to switch.

I get it. Tikkas are smooth and the short bolt throw is nice is well.

If you want a smooth action, good chassis, good trigger, and short bolt throw skip the tikka and jump straight to an AI. There’s no need to change the barrel on an AI. They come with good ones. ? But if you do decide to change it it only requires a phone call, credit card, and 4mm Allen wrench.

You can get a donor Tikka for $400, and it needs no trigger. Then you can grab a Bravo and a Bartlein and you're set. Same price as the Rem. Again, my only point is that it's the same price for a better product.

The decision between Origin and Tikka is at least a discussion. Between keeping the 700 versus getting a Tikka, there is absolutely no decision.

 

[patriot07]

Not satire at all. Is there a 2 stage trigger for Tikka? Aftermarket bolt options? How much is a stock replacement bolt for one? Replacement firing pin other than factory? And how about those Sako extractors? Tikka condemned and flagged a rifle that I sent back for a failed bolt. No communication prior to sending it back, just a letter. Said it was an over pressure round without any testing or evaluating (it wasn't). They can't even magnaflux test anymore because they no longer have that capability. No option for me to pay to fix it, just a middle finger. I have a friend who had the exact same thing happen, they replaced his rifle no questions asked. Seems inconsistent to me, which is what I consider shit customer service.

As far as factory barrels, none of my Remington barrels have been bad, and they aren't slow either.

Everyone compares a stock Rem700 to their custom clones. They seem to forget it's a production item, and for the price some quality suffers. Do all receivers need work? No. I think people are too critical of a production rifle

Has anyone actually measured a Tikka action to see if they're actually true? Or is it just an assumption.

As far as I'm concerned, Tikka is no better than Savage, and friends don't let friends buy Savage. I tried polishing that turd too for over a decade. I'll never again own that garbage.

LOLOL - Tikka is no better than a Savage? Have you ever owned one? I've owned multiple of each, as well as 700s. There is no comparison.

My point is that Tikka is the same price as Rem, and quality doesn't suffer. You can't say that 700 prices force cutting corners, while Tikka is in the same price range and doesn't cut corners. The quality difference is completely night and day. We've swapped bolts around to different rifles and they all headspace just fine with no adjustment. They feed and extract/eject reliably with smooth operation and a short lift. It's like comparing a Ford Fiesta to a Toyota Avalon. I'm not pretending it's a Ferrari, but it's light years ahead of Savage and Rem.

I'm starting to see your problem - you don't need an aftermarket bolt for a Tikka, or a firing pin. Maybe your reliability issues with the 700 make you think you need more parts than you do for a Tikka? There are 2-stage triggers available from KRG and Timney I believe.

Can't speak to your issue with Tikka CS. But they were incredibly helpful to me and had my gun back fixed in a week.

As for the "is it true" statement, why does it matter if they shoot lights out? My 700s were MOA, but barely. My CTR is 1/2-3/4 MOA with factory 140 ELD-M and easily 1/2 MOA or a hair better with my handloads. They are slow, but I just dial a bit more to make up for it. It doesn't actually affect anything, but at least that is a fair point against the Tikka.

 

[Sutherlandsd]

I would say the $400 of the origin over the 700 gets you quite a bit.... CRF, much smoother action, much better extractor, floating bolt head, dlc bolt head, the ability to change bolt heads cheap, easily switch barrels, multitude of available prefit, and last but not least resale... And I'm sure there is much more.

 

[Luvman]

I would say the $400 of the origin over the 700 gets you quite a bit.... CRF, much smoother action, much better extractor, floating bolt head, dlc bolt head, the ability to change bolt heads cheap, easily switch barrels, multitude of available prefit, and last but not least resale... And I'm sure there is much more.

Fair enough.

@Redshako in all seriousness I would true up your 700 and stick a good tube on it. OR if you want to step up in the action department get an origin with a good tube. Done or Done. Easy peasy.

You seem happy with everything else. And by all accounts it’s not going to hold you back.

There’s no need to reinvent the wheel.

 

[Sutherlandsd]

The argument for origin is really only valid when you start talking about trueing the action... If your going down that road then any of the value custom actions are really no brainiers. In op's case a better barrel is probably the best answer.

As to Tikka vs REM vs Savage vs origin well I think when it comes to factory actions the Tikka is hard to beat the secondary accessories are starting to come around also. You can't compare any of the mass produced actions to a custom action in my opinion. Apples and oranges.

 

[ThePretzel]

You can get a donor Tikka for $400, and it needs no trigger. Then you can grab a Bravo and a Bartlein and you're set. Same price as the Rem. Again, my only point is that it's the same price for a better product.

For someone who's used to a TriggerTech I can guarantee you the Tikka trigger will feel like a downgrade (because it is a downgrade). It's a decent factory trigger, yes, but the severe lack of aftermarket triggers will mean that any trigger (including the Timney) will be worse than what he currently has.

If OP is getting a barrel installed for their Rem700 the truing and blueprinting of the action is a cheap add on. It's $100 at GA Precision, meaning the total cost for a barrel from GA precision would be $290 (barrel install on a trued and blueprinted action) + $100 (truing and blueprinting the action) plus the cost of the barrel and any other services desired.

 

[Sutherlandsd]

That's right at $400 plus the cost of the barrel.... Why not sell the REM for $400 and use that$400 for a custom action that is not only trued but has all of the upgrades of that action.

The question (while we are spending the ops money...) Would you rather have a trued Remington action or custom action? Effectively you are spending roughly the same money.

Buy a remage barrel if you want to keep the Remington action....

 

[Bric2000]

As another new person - my opinion is to go with the custom build. Go with what you think you really want. In the end that's what you are really going to be happy with. You won't be disappointed with going with quality stuff anyway.
If you are unhappy with the action, get a great action. I look at this stuff nightly, as I don't have the stuff I like... Yet.
like another poster had said that he put a lot of time and money into equipment to try to make it better. Just go with what you want. Save a little. Take a little time. Order what you want. You plan on spending some bucks to lay the foundation. A little extra might get you where you want to be.
That's how I've been going about it now. You get what you pay for. Why settle?

 

[Redshako]

Lots of comments and feedback. Thank you all.

Couple things-

1) I have been shooting this rifle for months and have nearly a thousand rounds through it. I am not spending another dollar to try to make it run better. I agree that a good barrel would be a huge improvement. I am just not interested in wasting one more penny on this gun. I spent ~$800 on a rifle with a bad trigger, a mediocre barrel, a crappy plastic stock, one of the holes for the scope base screws was not threaded correctly, and it appears from the bolt lug wear that the bolt probably isn't concentric to the action. Other posters may be having better luck with their M700 actions and I am happy for them.


2) I already have a base line budget for ammunition, range membership and time (which is even more scarce) set aside for shooting the next rifle as well as my .22 trainers and a regular dry fire routine.

 

[Redshako]

If you go the tikka route find a used t3x with the correct bolt face put a trigger spring in it and what ever stock/chassis you want and rebarrel you won't be disappointed oh yea sterk bolt handle that's what I did , the only other thing I'm going to do to mine is get the action and bolt NP3 coatedView attachment 7042446

Gorgeous gun. How do you like the ARC rings?

 

[Redshako]

Another vote for Kelblys. They are awesome

Do the Atlas actions have a standard Remington tenon and take Remage barrels or do they have custom threading?

 

[ThePretzel]

Lots of comments and feedback. Thank you all.

Couple things-

1) I have been shooting this rifle for months and have nearly a thousand rounds through it. I am not spending another dollar to try to make it run better. I agree that a good barrel would be a huge improvement. I am just not interested in wasting one more penny on this gun. I spent ~$800 on a rifle with a bad trigger, a mediocre barrel, a crappy plastic stock, one of the holes for the scope base screws was not threaded correctly, and it appears from the bolt lug wear that the bolt probably isn't concentric to the action. Other posters may be having better luck with their M700 actions and I am happy for them.


2) I already have a base line budget for ammunition, range membership and time (which is even more scarce) set aside for shooting the next rifle as well as my .22 trainers and a regular dry fire routine.

In light of this, I would strongly recommend going for an Origin or other Rem700 footprint custom action over the Tikka.

You already have accessories for the Rem700 (a good trigger and chassis), and the available aftermarket for later upgrades is exponentially larger. Another big advantage to the Origin over the Tikka (or even a similarly priced custom like the Defiance Tenacity) is that you can order pre-fit shouldered barrels from most any gunsmith out there to fit it. A Tikka or Tenacity would require you to use a barrel nut pre-fit (which limits your barrel contour options to 1" straight and under, you want something large and heavy for PRS generally), and a Kelbly action isn't something that most any gunsmith will spin up for you as a pre-fit like they do with Bighorn actions (and Impact or ARC).

The Tikka will never have a trigger as crisp as the TT Special in your Rem700, and it will be an extra cost to get the new chassis since you won't be able to sell your current chassis for full retail. The Tikka will have a smooth bolt, but the Origin is better (DLC coating is SLICK, I've felt them and they're awesome) and the Origin has much better tolerances in every aspect of manufacturing. Tikka actions are pretty good and generally don't require truing or blueprinting, but gunsmiths still can correct minor errors in how the bolt face is squared up and the like. Not necessary by any means to get a good shooting rifle, but I have seen trued Tikka's for sale and Tikka truing services available while the same cannot be said about custom actions from Bighorn.

 

[patriot07]

In light of this, I would strongly recommend going for an Origin or other Rem700 footprint custom action over the Tikka.

You already have accessories for the Rem700 (a good trigger and chassis), and the available aftermarket for later upgrades is exponentially larger. Another big advantage to the Origin over the Tikka (or even a similarly priced custom like the Defiance Tenacity) is that you can order pre-fit shouldered barrels from most any gunsmith out there to fit it. A Tikka or Tenacity would require you to use a barrel nut pre-fit (which limits your barrel contour options to 1" straight and under, you want something large and heavy for PRS generally), and a Kelbly action isn't something that most any gunsmith will spin up for you as a pre-fit like they do with Bighorn actions (and Impact or ARC).

The Tikka will never have a trigger as crisp as the TT Special in your Rem700, and it will be an extra cost to get the new chassis since you won't be able to sell your current chassis for full retail. The Tikka will have a smooth bolt, but the Origin is better (DLC coating is SLICK, I've felt them and they're awesome) and the Origin has much better tolerances in every aspect of manufacturing. Tikka actions are pretty good and generally don't require truing or blueprinting, but gunsmiths still can correct minor errors in how the bolt face is squared up and the like. Not necessary by any means to get a good shooting rifle, but I have seen trued Tikka's for sale and Tikka truing services available while the same cannot be said about custom actions from Bighorn.

"available aftermarket for later upgrades is exponentially larger" - That's just not accurate for relatively common upgrades, and as Tikka continues to replace 700/Savage/etc. as the only factory action that really makes any sense for most buyers in the low/medium price range, that will only become less true.

I asked about this issue earlier and one particular trigger is the only thing that's been mentioned. There are other good 2-stage triggers on the market, but almost nobody buys a Tikka and replaces the trigger anyway. It's so good that it's not worth spending hundreds of dollars to "upgrade" it. If you're at the point of spending hundreds of dollars to upgrade a trigger, you should probably just get the custom action. If you're looking for value, the Tikka is going to win that argument, every single time.

 

[patriot07]

If you go the tikka route find a used t3x with the correct bolt face put a trigger spring in it and what ever stock/chassis you want and rebarrel you won't be disappointed oh yea sterk bolt handle that's what I did , the only other thing I'm going to do to mine is get the action and bolt NP3 coatedView attachment 7042446

I agee 100% with this approach. I have a Sterk on mine, with a T4A stock. I'm still running the factory barrel because it's 1/2 MOA with very low ES/SD. When I shoot it out, I'll probably go with a Bartlein in 7-08.

 

[Chase214]

Gorgeous gun. How do you like the ARC rings?

Love them won't use another brand super easy to keep scope level when torquing them down

 

[Dthomas3523]

My main point was, either spend a little, or spend a lot.

Just reading the post, sounds like OP is on a budget (at least currently) and may be willing to make sacrifices (see the save up to buy south fork or tac a1, but doesn’t like the chassis on either comment) just for the sake of upgrading.

I’m saying that a better option in long run is just a new barrel and then save save save and research until you can buy whatever you like. Make the sacrifice now of shooting the 700 you already have. Shoot it in nrl and ask to fondle as many rifles as possible during the season. Then go all out and build what you want later.

You may end up with a tikka, or you may end up with a custom action you haven’t considered yet. Never know what you might like.


This is advise I wish I would have listened to last year.

 

[patriot07]

Shoot it in nrl and ask to fondle as many rifles as possible during the season. Then go all out and build what you want later.

Probably the best advice in the whole thread.

 

[Mxridr]

I have owned tikka, trued rem 700, bighorn, and at the end of the I wish I had bought a defiance. The bighorn is nice but the defiance is so smooth. Save money and go bigger.

 

[kthomas]

For someone who's used to a TriggerTech I can guarantee you the Tikka trigger will feel like a downgrade (because it is a downgrade). It's a decent factory trigger, yes, but the severe lack of aftermarket triggers will mean that any trigger (including the Timney) will be worse than what he currently has.

If OP is getting a barrel installed for their Rem700 the truing and blueprinting of the action is a cheap add on. It's $100 at GA Precision, meaning the total cost for a barrel from GA precision would be $290 (barrel install on a trued and blueprinted action) + $100 (truing and blueprinting the action) plus the cost of the barrel and any other services desired.

BnA makes a trigger for the Tikka. It's not cheap though. I've owned BnA and TT triggers and IMO, the BnA's are a better trigger.

KRG also makes a Tikka trigger, couldn't tell you how good it is though.

 

[TheMythicalWhiteDingo]

...but the performance of the rem 700 is so/so (as to be expected).

I know I don't want to spend anymore money trying to improve the Remington action.

So your decision to move on is based on performance. Depending on your definition (let's assume accuracy for now), your biggest performance increase will come from a quality barrel, regardless of what action you use. I wouldn't even bother with truing (this isn't benchrest where .01 moa is the difference between winning), thus saving you money.

That said, I think the most economical approach would be keep the action for now and do a remage build. This way, you'll see firsthand how well the current action will shoot with a decent barrel and if you're still not satisfied for whatever reason, you could always swap the action out for something with the same footprint (like the bighorn) and resuse your parts. If you learn how to perform a remage install yourself (which you should), you'll save more money in the long run.

 

[JMGlasgow]

LOLOL - Tikka is no better than a Savage? Have you ever owned one? I've owned multiple of each, as well as 700s. There is no comparison.

My point is that Tikka is the same price as Rem, and quality doesn't suffer. You can't say that 700 prices force cutting corners, while Tikka is in the same price range and doesn't cut corners. The quality difference is completely night and day. We've swapped bolts around to different rifles and they all headspace just fine with no adjustment. They feed and extract/eject reliably with smooth operation and a short lift. It's like comparing a Ford Fiesta to a Toyota Avalon. I'm not pretending it's a Ferrari, but it's light years ahead of Savage and Rem.

I'm starting to see your problem - you don't need an aftermarket bolt for a Tikka, or a firing pin. Maybe your reliability issues with the 700 make you think you need more parts than you do for a Tikka? There are 2-stage triggers available from KRG and Timney I believe.

Can't speak to your issue with Tikka CS. But they were incredibly helpful to me and had my gun back fixed in a week.

As for the "is it true" statement, why does it matter if they shoot lights out? My 700s were MOA, but barely. My CTR is 1/2-3/4 MOA with factory 140 ELD-M and easily 1/2 MOA or a hair better with my handloads. They are slow, but I just dial a bit more to make up for it. It doesn't actually affect anything, but at least that is a fair point against the Tikka.

My two 700 short actions will interchange bolts and headspace as well. I haven't needed any aftermarket receiver or bolt parts, it's just nice to know there are options. Firing pins do break, so knowing I can get one from one of many manufacturers is a good thing. My 100% factory, wood stocked CDL hunting rifle in 30-06 consistently shoots in the .4 moa range, and the factory SPS in a Grayboe stock shot 1/2 moa right out of the box. We will never agree on Tikka vs Remington, my experience with them has been nothing but garbage, and I stand by my comparison to Savage.

I also forgot to mention I've seen a Tikka barrel that had what seems to be missing rifling for 2" or so 6" from the muzzle, and it shot like shit. So much for that amazing quality control...

 

[patriot07]

My two 700 short actions will interchange bolts and headspace as well. I haven't needed any aftermarket receiver or bolt parts, it's just nice to know there are options. Firing pins do break, so knowing I can get one from one of many manufacturers is a good thing. My 100% factory, wood stocked CDL hunting rifle in 30-06 consistently shoots in the .4 moa range, and the factory SPS in a Grayboe stock shot 1/2 moa right out of the box. We will never agree on Tikka vs Remington, my experience with them has been nothing but garbage, and I stand by my comparison to Savage.

I also forgot to mention I've seen a Tikka barrel that had what seems to be missing rifling for 2" or so 6" from the muzzle, and it shot like shit. So much for that amazing quality control...

Fair enough. We can certainly agree to disagree. My experience has been the opposite. But I'm off tomorrow, so today is my Friday and the OP has heard plenty from both sides, so I'm not gonna argue about it anymore. Just looking forward to happy hour...?

 

[JMGlasgow]

Snow day here. Waiting for the wind to die down before working on moving snow.

 

[steve123]

Sell the 700, + use 0% credit card, build exactly what you want. Saves money in the long run. Might have a garage sale, work some overtime, christmas money, birthday money, tax return, etc, all combined. Time goes by quick and next thing you know it'll be 2020 - paid off.

And/or buy used, that's what I did to begin with. Paid less than half the original cost for a all out M700 custom 9 years ago and sold it for $100 less 2 years ago. The reason I kept it so long is back then most of the actions were M700 clones and I didn't see a huge difference over my trued M700 with PTG bolt. It took the Mausingfield action to finally tip me over.

I bought two used custom single shot BR action builds before that and got 80-90% my money back when I sold them.

I had poor luck with savage, thankfully I didn't put a dime into mine and was happy to take a $25 loss! PS, I like 700's(owned many) and Tikka's, but it's a gamble whether you get a good shooter or not from the factory, as you now know. Yes I've seen two factory Tikka's that did not shoot well and others that did.

I think the Origin is the easy button here. Not sure how much of an upgrade any custom action is over it??, too many nice features for the price...