I have a few questions regarding my first rifle purchase. I have been researching for days and can't seem to find the answers so any help would be appreciated. My rifle will be used for target shooting anywhere from 100 to 600 yards. I've decided to get a tikka t3 HB for it's great action and inherent accuracy for the price. Im thinking 223 will be appropriate for cost and as a caliber to learn off of. I have a bushnell 4200 elite 6x24x40 scope for the rifle.
My first question is about barrel length. Is there an optimal barrel length for the 223? From what i've read it almost seems to be a matter of personal preference. Tikka offers both 20 and 24 inch models so what's more important for accuracy, barrel stiffness or maximum muzzle velocity? Nobody can seem to give me a definitive answer.
Second, what are the differences between the varmint and tac/super varmint models? It seems to me that it's only the rail, bolt handle, finish, threading(tac), and cheek piece. i would assume that they are built to the same quality and such but let me know if i'm wrong, because ill pay more if the cost is justified.
My last question is in regard to aftermarket stocks. I haven't heard the best things about the factory offering so I want to swap it with the bell and carlson medalist for better rigidity and harmonics. I don't want to spend 500+ on a stock so the B&C seems to make the most sense. The only problem is they only make it for the standard barrel contour, can the stock be modified to fit the heavier barrel? If you have experience with this particular stock let me know how you like it, i've only heard good things so far.
Thanks in advance.
My first question is about barrel length. Is there an optimal barrel length for the 223? From what i've read it almost seems to be a matter of personal preference. Tikka offers both 20 and 24 inch models so what's more important for accuracy, barrel stiffness or maximum muzzle velocity? Nobody can seem to give me a definitive answer.
Second, what are the differences between the varmint and tac/super varmint models? It seems to me that it's only the rail, bolt handle, finish, threading(tac), and cheek piece. i would assume that they are built to the same quality and such but let me know if i'm wrong, because ill pay more if the cost is justified.
My last question is in regard to aftermarket stocks. I haven't heard the best things about the factory offering so I want to swap it with the bell and carlson medalist for better rigidity and harmonics. I don't want to spend 500+ on a stock so the B&C seems to make the most sense. The only problem is they only make it for the standard barrel contour, can the stock be modified to fit the heavier barrel? If you have experience with this particular stock let me know how you like it, i've only heard good things so far.
Thanks in advance.
