Tikka T3 Barrel Failure and Recall in 2004

[DeSnifter]

Apologies if this has been posted before but I could not find anything on this via the search function as it only goes back 2 years.

Apparently back in 2004 there was a bad batch of barrels put out by Tikka and Sako that resulted in 6 recorded malfunctions causing the rifle's barrel and receiver to explode. A man had some broken bones in his hand and a little boy lost the tip of his thumb.

I was extremely interested in purchasing a T3 but now I am somewhat hesitant. Has anyone heard of any other problems with the Tikka in recent times and has this issue been completely resolved? This malfunction occurred with their stainless steel barrels. Apparently all rifles were recalled and rebarrelled except for a few in the US as a result of customers not knowing about the recall.

More information can be found on this subject here including pics:

http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=156955&page=2

http://www.bpcr.net/site_photos/Sako-KA-BOOM/index.htm

The model I was interested in was the Tikka T3 Tac. Does anyone know if the barrels used on that rifle are also stainless steel? I love the rifle and want a less expensive alternative to my TRG-22 but it still is scary.

 

[RTS]

Re: Tikka T3 Barrel Failure and Recall in 2004

I have two of the T3 Tacticals and am very happy with them. Both shoot consistently sub-moa with match ammo out to 300yds. I've also used a few subs in one with no trouble. I don't know which barrel was used on mine, but both were purchased new much later than 2004.

I had not heard about the trouble you mention, but can speak from experience about the ones I've shot. I don't think you'll be disappointed.