Tikka or Howa for precision .223?

[Kadams1563]

Hey guys I currently have a custom 6.5 on a Defiance action and a Manners stock. The problem is I shoot most of the time at about 350 yards.

I am wanting to get a .223 set up for the cheaper cost of shooting and barrel life.

I am looking at the Tikka or the Howa rifles but want a heavy barrel that’s threaded for a suppressor.

Will be looking at dropping into a KRG Bravo or something on the cheaper side then my Manners T6A.

What’s the cheapest way to get into one of these barreled actions?


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[Mordamer]

Tikka with a 1:8 twist barrel. Shoot the 75 or 80 ELD-M to 1000 yards with great results. The Howa is nice, but the 1:9" twist barrel limits the long range potential. Have a gunsmith thread the barrel on a T3x Varmint and be glad you didn't go the cheap route.
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[tevans0707]

Just ordered me a tikka t3x varmint for $775 to make into a trainer. Picked up a McMillan A5 for $420, mountain tactical bottom metal and scope rail, and sterk bolt handle with rounded knob and bolt shroud. Still debating on what glass to go with, PST Gen2, Burris XTRii, or Gen1 Razor. Going to thread it (going to run a APA Little bastard when I'm just shooting for fun) but not put a brake on it so I can have recoil that somewhat matches my 6.5.

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[308pirate]

Tikka, only because Howas do not come with anything faster than 1 in 9 rifling. Yet.

That's only speaking about factory rifles. PTG was selling Howa 223 barreled actions for $250. At that price one could afford to trash the barrel, order a pre-fit 1-8 or faster barrel from Pac-nor, and drop the thing in one of the several chassis or fiberglass stocks that are inletted for it.

They may still have a few.....

 

[patriot07]

I have a T3x Varmint in 223. Freaking awesome rifle. Stupid accurate, smooth action, great trigger, etc.

I'm sure you can get into a Howa for cheaper, but the Tikka is a little better rifle.