GreenNeck wrote:So I'm currently in the market for a bolt 223. I'll be using it for mostly target/varmint shooting with the occasional hunting trip.
I'd like well made, robust rifle that feels solid to hold.
I prefer laminate/synthetic for durability and don't really have a budget in mind but nothing stupid $$ wise.
Thanks in advance for your knowledge and reccomendations, I'm new to the sport and the community has been nothing but friendly and welcoming!
I bought a Tikka T3x Compact Tactical Rifle [CTR] 18 months ago, and have found it ticked all my boxes:-
I wanted Stainless/Synthetic
I wanted a threaded barrel muzzle (CTR has 5/8"x24)
I wanted a compact/short barrel for ease getting in/out of the Landcruiser (CTR has 20")
I wanted a box magazine (10 Round)
I wanted a barrel twist rate fast enough for higher weight projectiles (CTR came with 1:8")
I wanted a heavier barrel than a hunter (CTR seems to be somewhere close to varmint profile)
So, the 3 'negatives' (If I could call them that) are as follows:-
1). Synthetic Factory Stock isnt adjustable
2). Personally, I'd prefer an action where I can cycle it with the safety on(To remove a live round) - something the T3/T3x actions cant do.
3). Compared to our Howa 1500 Stainless/Synthetic .223, the CTR is notably heavier.
But for me, the 'negatives' dont detract from what a sweet little rifle the CTR has turned out to be.
Compact, solid, easy to get in/out of the ute, and reaches out and touches stuff..
Since I moved over to heavier projectiles (now using 75gn Rexem BTHP F-Bomb pills), the CTR has claimed a LOT of hot pork, but is just as happy punching paper.
Reloading for the CTR has turned out to be simple, with it happily digesting all factory and reloaded ammo without issues.
I purchased a couple of nice after-market 10-round alloy mags for it, which were cheaper than the factory steel mags, and better finished.
I also fitted one of those adapter that mounts to the front QD sling mount on the stock, and gives me a short section of rail under the front of the stock.
That gives me the option for either a Rail-mount Bipod(or rail-mount torch when persecuting rabbits at night).
Projects I'll get around to are to maybe replace the stock with something more adjustable, and lighten the trigger pull slightly.
There are 3 rifles that would be my bare minimum of essentials; my CTR, my Ruger Precision .308, and my little 10/22.