Suitable rifle

[nightcrow]

if for stalking go for something bigger. start at 6.5 I would, .243 used to be the perfect go to starting point, but with potential legislation change for non toxic rounds, the 6.5 and up calibers have a far better bullet selection, both factory and home load.

Isn't 6mm and under being exempted from non toxic regs?

 

[ChesterP]

I'd recommend the T3/T3x which is not just an "entry level" (what does that mean?), it's good enough for any seasoned stalker, let alone someone new to the sport and accurate and reliable out of the box and has a good trigger too. A great choice for semi custom. Limited bullet choice in non toxic and possibly not the best choice if you have to shoot non-toxic. I'd personally recommend any of the 6.5cals which are all soft recoiling, accurate and versatile. Buying a cheaper model (avoiding custom packages unless economical compared with separate components) and later upgrading the stock is probaby the route I'd go. Loads of after market stock choices, most of which better the factory stock and you can then pick one that offers a good fit and balance. Scope-wise, these days I'd probably opt for a short zoom or fixed mag. Delta titanium is good, as are used S&B/Meopta staking scopes and you mentioned Steiner too. I once tried the Steiner Ranger 3-12 x 56 and thought it was an excellent scope for the price. Good, clear optics and an IR and a 4A illuminated dot. Great choice for stalking but you may value something with a smaller objective and lower profile.

 

[Trilby]

Isn't 6mm and under being exempted from non toxic regs?

I doubt it, makes the whole thing pointless. if it is it would be on the grounds of personal consumption only at best. I would play it safe and go with a caliber that accommodates copper. especially if your looking to shoot on forestry commission ground or put venison into the food chain.

 

[njc110381]

I used to tell people to avoid this rifle, look at that rifle, etc etc. Now I tell people what I learned over the years - pick it up and see how it feels. When I want a rifle now I buy a second hand Sako 75 and put a new barrel on it of I need to. I like the quality of course but the main reason is they fit me like a glove. Tikkas are good guns but I found myself very recoil sensitive when using them - sensitive to the point that side by side my friend's T3 Lite in .270 was far more uncomfortable than my Brno 602 in .375H&H magnum. Compare that to an old shooting buddy of mine, he shot a T3 and hated my 75, couldn't shoot it for toffee.

If it's your first gun I'd try to find a few shops with ranges. Steve Beaty at Ivythorn is my go to. He has a good selection of rifles both new and used, and you can shoot the used ones before you decide. There's a lot more to buying a nice rifle than picking a brand, pretty much all modern guns will shoot minute of deer and then some.

 

[spurs14]

Thanks for all the advice