Thread: First hunting rifle

Hi
I'm looking at getting myself my first hunting rifle and I'd probably get a .308. I've already bought a Kahles helia KX 3-9x42 which I managed to get brand new $500 cheaper than its original price. I was just wondering what people recommended, I'd like a Sako 85 but the budget probably won't stretch that far! A Tikka T3 is also definitely an option and as you can probably tell already from my choice of scope and rifle I like shiny things so I'd most likely buy new. Just tryna get an idea of what options are out there.
Cheers

Can't go wrong with a tikka in my opinion bro I've had one about to buy another they have a accuracy guarantee they have a smooth action good caliber selections everyone has them but there's a reason for that I reckon go for it mate I personally think you won't regret it!
Cody

I've got plenty of mates that are happy Tikka customers.

Honestly, get what you want. There's always going to be someone who thinks you're wrong. Fuck 'em. If you shoot well with it and enjoy it, it's worth the money/flack/bullshit.


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You're on the right track by buying a decent scope and then a rifle. A lot of guys buy a rifle and put on a shit scope because they have no money left for a decent scope. A tikka is a sensible choice. You can't go wrong with a .308 either.

Welcome to the forum.

Originally Posted by Shootm

You're on the right track by buying a decent scope and then a rifle. A lot of guys buy a rifle and put on a shit scope because they have no money left for a decent scope. A tikka is a sensible choice. You can't go wrong with a .308 either.

Welcome to the forum.

You seem to have taken advice from someone with good sense.
I believe shootm is still using a 1960's vintage Kahles and on a .308 ?

If you've go straight to a fairly expensive scope I don't think you will be happy long term with a Tikka; you're well up the curve of diminishing returns past the point where you can shoot the most deer for the least money - you are heading for satisfaction of ownership.

Tikka is at least as accurate as sako and equally as reliable. Just as good if not better for shooting deer actually. The differences are in ease of use and economy of materials (eg action fitted to .308 not .3006) and no concerns about remnant plastic parts, 3 shot mag, ally rings and so on. A car analogy could be new corrolla vs new impreza. However, it's lose lose to wait until you can save up for a sako.

A left field alternative, if you choose to space out your spending, would be to buy the best no.3* or Mk 4 SMLE you can lay your hands on. If it's got the old parker hale style bridge mounting block then get CZ 19mm dovetail rings. Lay in a stack of factory ammo and don't bother reloading till you go to .308. Grouping will be only 2 or 3 inches at 100 yd but it will be a pleasure to use, reliable rugged and light weight, until you get a sako. The SMLE is a highly refined design, a classic like the several iterations of sako. If you're an independent practical minded person, you won't be in a hurry to trade up.

Look for a second hand sako 75 if they are in your budget.

Originally Posted by stug

Look for a second hand sako 75 if they are in your budget.

Yes to this. I have nothing against the Tikka but for stuff all more you can own a Sako like the above and they are pure quality in comparison.

Ps. I love them Kahles mate.


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Not another one tikka fits all again post BORING. If you have access to a club where others are happy to let you shoot a variety of makes and models then make your mind up.

Save for the Sako

Sako + Kahles = quality fun

Tikka T3 will do the job you describe, get he stainless steel screw replacements from gunworks and the standard rings are sweet.

Sakos are more money for sure but if they still do the same job what's the point? Spend that money on a fly in trip or trophy hunt

Parker Hale or Brno will do the job well too.You could well pick up a tidy Rifle for $500 second hand.Spend the difference on reloading gear,most people don't practice near enough.

Welcome to the forum. As has been said use, fondle, shoot as many as you can. One will keep drawing you back to have another feel/play. Buy one of those.

If it comes down to two them flip a coin. As soon as you get the coin in the air you'll want it to land a certain way up because one really caught your attention. Put the coin back in your pocket without looking at it.

Whatever you get someone will give you shit about it. Don't worry about that, it is all good hearted banter. What matters is that you like it and can prove to yourself that it does the job.

You have already mentioned that you would like a Sako. My advice is dont compromise. Save a bit longer and buy a Sako or keep your eyes out for a special or 2nd hand one. Yes Tikka's have a good rep, so do many others in a similar price range, but if you buy the Tikka, I can promise you that you will still want the Sako that you wanted to start with.

It wont matter how good the Tikka is, you will still end up wishing you had got what you wanted to start with.

amen

Originally Posted by timattalon

You have already mentioned that you would like a Sako. My advice is dont compromise. Save a bit longer and buy a Sako or keep your eyes out for a special or 2nd hand one. Yes Tikka's have a good rep, so do many others in a similar price range, but if you buy the Tikka, I can promise you that you will still want the Sako that you wanted to start with.

It wont matter how good the Tikka is, you will still end up wishing you had got what you wanted to start with.

Gadgetman speaks sense, get a rifle that fits you well and that you like the feel of. You could always buy something cheap to use until you gain the experience to know what you actually want in a rifle instead of just wanting a certain brand just because of what some other people like.