Tikka T3 Thread

[SLG]

Got to handle a Manners T5, T5A, EH5, EH5A today for the Tikka and R700. Very nice stock. I may get to do some shooting tomorrow with one, and then decide which way to go.

ETA: I completely disassembled my Tikka/Bravo, meaning barreled action out of the chassis, scope off the rail, but still in the rings. I added a spigot to the chassis and reassembled the whole thing. Cold bore hit at 337 just now on sub 2moa steel, as well as a second hit on sub moa steel. Very repeatable setup! I did however, not get my magwell fit right again somehow, so the gun didn't want to feed while pushed up against my Saracen bag. I'll have to play with it again.

 

[ranger43]

OK, this may not be the best forum to ask this question on, I'm agonizing between A Tikka Varmint 223 8 twist and a B14 HMR Bergara in 22-250 9 twist. what are my downfalls on either of these. I already have a Tikka Varmint with some rounds down it and just love that gun. But also like the Bergara. I need some counseling here.

 

[DXT_Shooter]

Looks great, show us from the other side with that handle! haha

Here it is without scope so you can see the Sterk Bolt and Shroud. I will try and get one with the scope as well.

 

[DXT_Shooter]

OK, this may not be the best forum to ask this question on, I'm agonizing between A Tikka Varmint 223 8 twist and a B14 HMR Bergara in 22-250 9 twist. what are my downfalls on either of these. I already have a Tikka Varmint with some rounds down it and just love that gun. But also like the Bergara. I need some counseling here.

We are enablers here...get both ?

 

[SLG]

We are enablers here...get both ?

Nah, get two Tikkas instead.

 

[ranger43]

I would love to get both, but my mad money is running really low. My quick look seems to indicate the quality is quite similar.

 

[drkhrs2]

I have two Tikkas that shoot lights out, but the Bergaras are very smooth and also shoot great. MHSA swears by the Bergaras.

 

[viking78]

I have shot with few different Bergeras rifle, but i would not count these to the same line how the action works.
If im not badly wrong, Bergera uses USA made barrels, Tikka use cold hammer forder barrel made in the same house that the whole rifle is build.
Not saying that Bergera is bad rifle, they are very good guns.
Just like Tikka more.
Must also say, that those Tikka rifles that has the teflon coating on the bolt, does not ride in the action so smooth that then non coated ones.
Any one know good way to remove that f--ing teflon coating?

 

[SLG]

@BallisticPrimate , I got to try out a 6mmC today in the T5A. Very nice stock, even if the 6mm didn't let me really test how it feels in recoil Time to spec one out for my Tikka's so I too can post awesome looking rifles. ;-)

BTW, I know all you comp guys know this, but I'm not a PRS guy. Compared to the 308 and 6.5C that I brought out today, that 6mmC is like a bolt of lightning! Super fast, great wind, no recoil. No wonder comp guys like it! Tempting to add a barrel for it, but probably not worth it for my uses.

 

[NewsShooter]

The GGS Predator and Ranger come with the adjustable cheek riser. They are similar to the T5 and have a mini-chassis. My Predator is 3.5 lbs, the Ranger is less.

Do these come in a long action? I've got a 7mm rem and I'd like to replace the stock on it

 

[ranger3]

I have two Tikkas that shoot lights out, but the Bergaras are very smooth and also shoot great. MHSA swears by the Bergaras.[/QU

 

[ranger3]

Bought the Bergara will let you know how it goes

 

[DXT_Shooter]

Looks great, show us from the other side with that handle! haha

Here is another photo showing bolt and shroud with scope mounted

 

[fullbore]

I think the "slow barrel" issue is caliber specific. I have a T-3 Varmint in .223 that throws 75gr'rs at 2960fps. Certainly not a "slow" barrel at all.

What load data for speed like that? Ive been tinkering for the past month and so far ive gotten 73gr hornady eld m's averaging 2781fps with 24gr of varget. Any tips on how to get some extra velocity would be awesome

 

[BigTex]

What load data for speed like that? Ive been tinkering for the past month and so far ive gotten 73gr hornady eld m's averaging 2781fps with 24gr of varget. Any tips on how to get some extra velocity would be awesome

25.1 of Varget gets me 2975fps with the 73gr ELD-M in LC brass out of a 22" barrel. I also get 2840fps with Berger 140gr VLD in my 22" .260 and 3120fps with 87gr VLDs in my 22" .243, I don't have any slow Tikka barrels.

 

[fullbore]

25.1 of Varget gets me 2975fps with the 73gr ELD-M in LC brass out of a 22" barrel. I also get 2840fps with Berger 140gr VLD in my 22" .260 and 3220fps with 87gr VLDs in my 22" .243, I don't have any slow Tikka barrels.

You getting any pressure signs on your brass? Im getting some flattening of primers but nothing major yet at 24gr varget. Also what's your seating depth base to ogive?

 

[BigTex]

You getting any pressure signs on your brass? Im getting some flattening of primers but nothing major yet at 24gr varget. Also what's your seating depth base to ogive?

Brass is fine. I'll have to measure one, they are too long for an AR mag for sure. Running the .223 in AI mags.

 

[Conaso]

Not to interfere in your discussion... I use Varget for my 69SMKs but try H4895. In an AR15 20.5" Varmint 22.5gr H4895, CCI SRP, pushed a 77gr TMK 2681fps; very good accuracy without pressure signs. But in a bolt action, I'm sure more velocity can be had.

In my 6.8SPC using AA2200 I had ejector pressure signs with CCI SRP. Went to CCI #41, although not having slamfires, signs went away. Maybe magnum primers with harder cups would help.


Although I have an AR15 and use AR mags I went to modified mags from these guys:

http://www.cavitybackbullets.com/product-p/cb-pri-mod-5.56.htm

As stated, you can go to the max inside the magwell, 2.36". These mags are great quality, or you can modify yourself.

 

[ranger3]

Ok I'm a little behind on Tikka values and I'm looking for some information. I sold my Tikka T3 Varmint in .308 a few years back but now have the chance to buy it back. The barrel and action had been Cerakoted and the rifle wears a Vortex Vipers PST 4-16x50 in Leupold STD mounts on a EGW HD rail. Asking price is $1300 for the package but I'm unsure if this is comparable to going rates at the moment. When I had the rifle it easily out-shot my DTA and I'd love to have it back to be honest but I don't want to overpay.

How many rounds? $650 or so for the scope, rest for the gun.

 

[Frankr]

Teaser guys, only for you my friend.
First in the world, Tikka T1X and KRG Bravo .
View attachment 6921204

So sexy!

 

[rookie7]

Just an observation I’d like to share from shooting this weekend (its subjective of course) : I handled 2 defiance actions and 1 bat action this weekend and not one was smoother than the Tikka. Honestly, really not as smooth and easy as the Tikka.

Now they may offer other attributes that I am not aware of, but it’s amazing how good of a rifle the Finns build.

 

[SLG]

Just an observation I’d like to share from shooting this weekend (its subjective of course) : I handled 2 defiance actions and 1 bat action this weekend and not one was smoother than the Tikka. Honestly, really not as smooth and easy as the Tikka.

Now they may offer other attributes that I am not aware of, but it’s amazing how good of a rifle the Finns build.

The Tikka really is stupid good. I'm not giving up my other guns, but I'm also not sure they do anything better then the T3 in any way at all.

 

[SLG]

This target is in another thread on tripod shooting, but the bottom left group is a 5 shot group, including the cold bore, with my lite .223. Also, I had just reassembled the gun, and was shooting to check zero. Is the group as big as it is becasue its 5 shots, or did the lite barrel heat up? Stupid good gun. My .223 varmint will be here tomorrow, and I have a 6.5 on the way as well. I think that will be the end of my Tikka buying for the foreseeable future, but they are so good, who knows?

 

[BigTex]

Just an observation I’d like to share from shooting this weekend (its subjective of course) : I handled 2 defiance actions and 1 bat action this weekend and not one was smoother than the Tikka. Honestly, really not as smooth and easy as the Tikka.

Now they may offer other attributes that I am not aware of, but it’s amazing how good of a rifle the Finns build.

I love my Tikkas and own more of them than any other brand. They are smooth but they are nowhere close to as smooth running as my Defiance Deviant Tactical.

 

[SLG]

I love my Tikkas and own more of them than any other brand. They are smooth but they are nowhere close to as smooth running as my Defiance Deviant Tactical.

In what way? My Defiance is an awesome action/gun, but while the tolerances are much tighter, I don't know if it can be said to be smoother. I suspect that much like glass quality, everyone views action smoothness a little differently. I think that the tendency of an action to bind is part of the smoothness equation, others may not.

 

[BigTex]

In what way? My Defiance is an awesome action/gun, but while the tolerances are much tighter, I don't know if it can be said to be smoother. I suspect that much like glass quality, everyone views action smoothness a little differently. I think that the tendency of an action to bind is part of the smoothness equation, others may not.

I guess the best way to put it is this, my Defiance is liquid smooth and makes absolutely no noise when cycling. You can hear the Tikkas unlock and hear and feel the bolt slide back and forth. It's not even close, my Defiance was done by Jon Beanland, the action is cerakoted and the Bolt is Parkerized. I had my doubts when talking with him but he said it would be sweet. It is.

My Tikkas are very smooth, don't get me wrong, just not as smooth as my Defiance. For what it's worth, my Defiance has never tried to bind on me.

 

[SLG]

No doubt, the Tikka is a cost conscious action. I guess I'm still amazed at what they accomplished for so little money.

 

[BigTex]

I agree completely. I actually have a Tikka at Jon's shop right now waiting on a Proof barrel. They are great actions.

 

[SLG]

I agree completely. I actually have a Tikka at Jon's shop right now waiting on a Proof barrel. They are great actions.

What caliber/length/profile? For what purpose?

I've long thought about a proof, but haven't made my mind up yet. What stock will it be in?

 

[BigTex]

It will be either a 6.5x47L or a 6.5 hipster. It's going to be 24", I wanted a 20 or 22" but the Tikka requires a small shank (1.13") barrel and the only small shank that Proof offers is 24". Full Proof Sendero (M24) profile. It is going in a Manners PRS1 carbon fiber stock with a Sterk handle and shroud. Should be a pretty slick rig.

 

[SLG]

It will be either a 6.5x47L or a 6.5 hipster. It's going to be 24", I wanted a 20 or 22" but the Tikka requires a small shank (1.13") barrel and the only small shank that Proof offers is 24". Full Proof Sendero (M24) profile. It is going in a Manners PRS1 carbon fiber stock with a Sterk handle and shroud. Should be a pretty slick rig.

Sounds nice, please let us know how it turns out.

What do you plan to use it for? Any idea on the expected weight?

 

[BigTex]

Hunting and general shooting. I'm thinking around 8.5-9lb without glass.

 

[tree man]

It will be either a 6.5x47L or a 6.5 hipster. It's going to be 24", I wanted a 20 or 22" but the Tikka requires a small shank (1.13") barrel and the only small shank that Proof offers is 24". Full Proof Sendero (M24) profile. It is going in a Manners PRS1 carbon fiber stock with a Sterk handle and shroud. Should be a pretty slick rig.

Is the reason proof only makes one barrel for the tikkas is because of the bevel on the face of the action? I’m wondering if I had my action milled flat then I could use a sendero light contour and a 22” barrel? Which is what I’m wanting to do on a upcoming build

 

[BigTex]

Is the reason proof only makes one barrel for the tikkas is because of the bevel on the face of the action? I’m wondering if I had my action milled flat then I could use a sendero light contour and a 22” barrel? Which is what I’m wanting to do on a upcoming build

Yes you can do that. You could use the 1.2" shank without milling, but it would look strange. If you mill off the bevel on the face of the receiver, the standard shank barrels will work fine.

 

[ejg]

Only had one Proof barrel come through our Workshops recently. It had a step in the shank . Not sure if the smith who fitted the barrel did it or if she came that way. Barrel had ~ 1" at the muzzle if I remember right.
edi

 

[tree man]

Yes you can do that. You could use the 1.2" shank without milling, but it would look strange. If you mill off the bevel on the face of the receiver, the standard shank barrels will work fine.

Thanks

 

[tree man]

Only had one Proof barrel come through our Workshops recently. It had a step in the shank . Not sure if the smith who fitted the barrel did it or if she came that way. Barrel had ~ 1" at the muzzle if I remember right.
edi

Thanks

 

[260284]

Very nice! Is that the DMRii? How do you like it? What height rings are you running?

It is the LRSTi 4.5-18 and I believe they are medium Vortex/Seekins rings.

 

[260284]

What load data for speed like that? Ive been tinkering for the past month and so far ive gotten 73gr hornady eld m's averaging 2781fps with 24gr of varget. Any tips on how to get some extra velocity would be awesome

I am running Nammo brass, CCI 450's, 24.9 of H4895. with 75 ELDM and getting 2995 fps out of my factory barreled Varmint. No signs of pressure. I was at 2875 with 25 grains of Varget.

 

[260284]

Do these come in a long action? I've got a 7mm rem and I'd like to replace the stock on it

All Tikkas are the same length, just a different bolt stop for long, short, and the CTR. Send Thomas an email and he will answer any questions.

 

[viking78]

I made a test brass from Lapua Palma to my 260rem.
Small primer pocket can take more pressure.
I had Vihtavuori manual max load for 123gr Scenar, it give a good accuracy with that, N150 max is 38,6gr..
https://www.vihtavuori.com/reloading-data/rifle-reloading/?cartridge=13
I did try that out of the Palma, no good at all.
But i did add powder by 0,8gr and it gives one hole, added another 0,8gr and super accurate load.
Though my friend told me, that you need to be careful with the Palma, because there are no same kind of pressure marking that large prime pocket and primer gives.
But bolt opened smooth and what i see, primer was not flattened to the primer pocket.
I should take my Magnetospeed to the range next time to see, what kind of speed this 1,8gr adding to the powder gives.
With 38,6gr powder it give the short 20" barrel to 123gr Scenar speed at 2680 fps.
Have you guys tested Palma cases in to your Tikka rifles, specially Tikka 260rem owners?
That black dot it 16mm.

 

[Tmm01]

Anyone with a CTR dropped into a Manners T4a or T6a, while cycling the bolt does it clear the cheek piece at all heights? Can the bolt be removed without removing the cheek piece?

 

[MarinePMI]

What load data for speed like that? Ive been tinkering for the past month and so far ive gotten 73gr hornady eld m's averaging 2781fps with 24gr of varget. Any tips on how to get some extra velocity would be awesome

Sorry, the alert for someone posting in a thread sometimes doesn't (for some reason) work for me.

24.5gr XBR-8208, NAMMO brass and Fed Match SR, 75gr ELDM. It's a pretty warm load, but so far has proven safe and consistent. Work up to it.

 

[tevans0707]

Anyone with a CTR dropped into a Manners T4a or T6a, while cycling the bolt does it clear the cheek piece at all heights? Can the bolt be removed without removing the cheek piece?

Although not a Manners, but my McMillan A5 with the factory cheek piece I have to remove the cheek piece to take the bolt out, or I found that to tbe easiest at least. There are few times where I have hit the bolt cut out with the cocking piece of the bolt and chipped the fiberglass.

 

[caporegime]

Speaking of T4 and T6s, anyone have an opinion between the two? Personally I like the look of the T6 but it seems as though the T4 is the more widely used of the two.

 

[Simia Dei]

Anyone with a CTR dropped into a Manners T4a or T6a, while cycling the bolt does it clear the cheek piece at all heights? Can the bolt be removed without removing the cheek piece?

I’ve had no issues with bolt removal or cycling, there is a massive grove in the cheekpiece to accomodate the bolt so I can’t see too much drama removing it with the cheekpiece quite high up.

 

[m6z]

@Simia Dei

What is your barrel length?

 

[Hostile_SS]

while i am sure its here somewhere... looking at the tikka t3 a1, (going 308 since its my common caliber ) does it matter 24, 20 or 16 in barrel? i am sure its a loaded question. thanks in advance and sorry if it has been asked.. a billion times!!

 

[Simia Dei]

@Simia Dei

What is your barrel length?

20” mate (about to be swapped for a 26”)

 

[Lunchbox27]

Anyone with a CTR dropped into a Manners T4a or T6a, while cycling the bolt does it clear the cheek piece at all heights? Can the bolt be removed without removing the cheek piece?

I have a T4A. At all heights... depends. If you use the retaining clip on the last setting, yes (and all the way down). If you need it higher than that you will start hitting the cheek piece with the bolt. I need to take the cheek piece off to remove the bolt. Its really not a big deal... at least not to me.

Hit me up with any questions.