• Watch Out for Scammers!

    We've now added a color code for all accounts. Orange accounts are new members, Blue are full members, and Green are Supporters. If you get a message about a sale from an orange account, make sure you pay attention before sending any money!

TIKKA T3X Arctic v.s. RUGER Gunsite Scut rifle

Eric B.

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Nov 6, 2011
372
33
80
Las Vegas, NV
I see written YouTube comments on TIKKA T3 X Arctic or similar Canadian Ranger models that the TIKKAs are "in a class above the RUGER Scout in quality and ruggedness."
To me the RUGER Scout rifle is VERY "rugged", an excellent, proven Mauser type action with an accurate 5R barrel. It's laminated stock requires only a good epoxy bedding. I'd add a Timney trigger for maximum accuracy.

With those two upgrades, IMHO, this rifle would be the equal of the TIKKA in accuracy and durability. Personally I'd add a NightForce 1 - 8 x 24 scope.

What is the consensus here on the two very similar rifles?
 
While the Tikka might be a slightly better tack driver given it's accuracy track record and heavier weight, the GSR should still be more than accurate enough for the role of that sort of rifle. I've researched these two and I reached your same conclusion. With just a couple modest upgrades, the GSR is fantastic and frees up the budget for a great scope like you mentioned, compared to the Tikka.
 
What is the consensus here on the two very similar rifles?
Sako open sights cost like $600/set, so that's most of the price difference.

The standard laminated tikka is similar to price of ruger if you don't need the open sights...
t3x_laminated_stainless.png
 
I’m usually a big fan of the Tikkas but not the Arctic - at 2900$ CAD and 10 lbs for a 20” 308.. That’s close to an AI AE mkiii in both weight and price.

Honestly I’d just use the savings going with the Ruger and spend the saving on a 1-10 Razor Gen III instead of the NF NX8 ... or get an Atacr 1-8 instead of the NX8. But then again ... what’s your need ?
 
I am a great fan of Tikka.
That Ruger looks pretty good though.
I don't think either of them are going to disappoint.
Rifles are like chicks.
You shouldn't care what other people think, you are the one taking it home.
 
Last edited:
I see written YouTube comments on TIKKA T3 X Arctic or similar Canadian Ranger models that the TIKKAs are "in a class above the RUGER Scout in quality and ruggedness."
To me the RUGER Scout rifle is VERY "rugged", an excellent, proven Mauser type action with an accurate 5R barrel. It's laminated stock requires only a good epoxy bedding. I'd add a Timney trigger for maximum accuracy.

With those two upgrades, IMHO, this rifle would be the equal of the TIKKA in accuracy and durability. Personally I'd add a NightForce 1 - 8 x 24 scope.

What is the consensus here on the two very similar rifles?
Not sure about the lack ruggedness of the GSR comments, the heavy Ruger action with the big claw extractor is the epitome of ruggedness. It’s a well designed package for an all around shorty. I’ve got two (one is my wife’s) and have been impressed with both of them. Accuracy is fine, trigger is heavy but crisp. Ruger has some advantages over the Tikka as a scout package, with a shorter barrel and front sights that don’t have to be removed to use a silencer. Also accepts AICS mags. Sure the Tikka is a good rifle too and a bit more refined, but these types of rifles are tools, not treasures. I can’t imagine one being appreciable more durable than the other. I hand load for mine and get about 1 to 1.5 MOA average depending on what bullet I’m shooting, which is all it needs to do to bring down deer.