I am looking at buying a general purpose, lightweight hunting rifle and managed to have a play with a few at the LGS yesterday. I had my mind set on one particular model, but after getting there and having a look and handling each gun, my opinion completely changed. Based on handling, operation, simplicity, reliability, price and looks, the list of my favourites from most to 'less-most':
Browning A Bolt Stainless Stalker .308 - $999
Tikka T3 Lite Stainless .308 - $1299
Remington 700 SPS .308 - $860
Marlin 336 .30-30 - $940
The Browning was just the most pleasant feeling and operating lightweight rifle I have ever handled (other than Sako's which aren't in my price range)and due to the new X Bolt and the weaker $US, was what I considered a pretty good price. It just edged out the Tikka because of the actual short action, better feeling stock, larger loading port, and in my opinion, a better magazine (which is steel and actually costs less).
So what are your opinions? I am considering putting a deposit tomorrow, but thought I would ask. I have no intentions of modding this rifle in anyway and I am willing to buy a better feeling and carrying gun and sacrifice a half inch of accuarcy.
Browning A Bolt Stainless Stalker .308 - $999
Tikka T3 Lite Stainless .308 - $1299
Remington 700 SPS .308 - $860
Marlin 336 .30-30 - $940
The Browning was just the most pleasant feeling and operating lightweight rifle I have ever handled (other than Sako's which aren't in my price range)and due to the new X Bolt and the weaker $US, was what I considered a pretty good price. It just edged out the Tikka because of the actual short action, better feeling stock, larger loading port, and in my opinion, a better magazine (which is steel and actually costs less).
So what are your opinions? I am considering putting a deposit tomorrow, but thought I would ask. I have no intentions of modding this rifle in anyway and I am willing to buy a better feeling and carrying gun and sacrifice a half inch of accuarcy.