Paul wrote:Hi all,
Im looking at adding a 223 and Ive been suggested one of the following:
Howa 1500
Tikka T3x
Sauer 100
Purpose for the 223 would be a general walk around rifle for anything from rabbits up to fox n roos. Seems 1:8 is pretty standard twist but would a 1:12 do most of the jobs with light <=40, mostly 55gr or up to 60gr projectiles with handloads. Tikka comes only in 1:12, Howa and Sauer prob 1:10. Not so keen on the 'sticky' howa stock though.
Have had a look at these in the local shop, Howa 1500 (not mini) and Sauer around the same price at $900-1150, then Tikka at about $1700. I have two Tikkas in 308 and 22-250 (wood stock and on the heavy side).
Looking for something very accurate, good out to at least 200m. Synth stock for weight and versatility/ robustness in all weather (very happy with it on the 308).
Any thoughts, experience and advice welcome.
Thanks in advance, Paul.
If you're only going to use light bullets anyway why not just use reduced loads in the .22-250 you already have? The extra weight may be a nuisance but the difference probably isn't that significant, and you could put a polymer stock on it if it is.
Personally, I'd go with 8"-twist.
You could also look at the Ruger American Predator.