Gday All
After much agonising I finally bit the bullet and got a T3 SS CTR 20" barrel. New old stock - was a bargain compared to the new T3X. I'd boiled it down to this or a Lithgow. Glad I waited until the recall was announced.
I put a Redfield 2-7x33 on it and plan to use it hunting. First trip to the range after sighting in it shot 3 shots at half an inch with Federal Power Shok 100's.
I noticed that the barrel wasn't free floating - there was a pinch point about 3 inches long at the start of the barrel. after some dremelling I managed to free it up - I can now pass a business card the entire length of the barrel. I took it out to the range again today and using same ammo as before, it shot a .3 inch 3 shot group. I know i can't improve on that even with reloads. Now I need to practice my groups at 200 yards.
Out of the box the trigger was a bit heavy so while I had the the action out, I adjusted the trigger adjust screw all the way out and it is probably now at 2lbs or so. Never had one this light - Its like breaking a stick of glass ! The bolt is super smooth too - even more than a regular Tikka because the bolt has a teflon coating.
As for the weight, I think its pretty reasonable - all up inc. sling its right on 8.5 lbs - no lightweight but good enough for a carry around gun. My Howa 308 runs 10lbs with the buttstock filled with silicone and epoxy bedded forend.
Very happy - Five out of five stars!