My first post and it will be obvious that I need lots of advice

[54PMURT]

I made and impulse buy the other day and bought the TBAC Ultra 7(.308). Now, you may be thinking that was a good choice, and I believe it was(a lot of the reason for getting that particular suppressor was based on the opinions from this site), the only problem is I don't have a rifle to put it on. That's right, I'm working backwards - I now have to find the right gun to put it on.

Here is what I want/need in a rifle: I'm not currently a hunter but would like to start deer hunting. I am also interested in a precision rifle that I can build on. I don't have unlimited funds, so I'd like to spend 2k or less on a rifle - not including the accessories. I bought the .308 can to have more options, so I'd like recommendations on caliber also.

I'm just starting the process, but I I really like the Seekins Havak PH2 6.5 creedmoor and the Seekins Bravo .308. Again, I am new to this and I could use all the recommendations I can get on rifle brand and caliber. Thanks.

 

[The D]

Tikka chambered in .308, install barreled action in KRG Bravo, top with any scope you can justify. Spend the rest on ammo and range time

I’m fairly new to the bolt gun world myself but this probably won’t get too many down votes from the more seasoned members here

 

[seanh]

Nothing wrong with that choice at all.

If your primary focus is going to be hunting and general shooting at sub 1000 yards, go with a 308. If you're going to get Beyond a thousand yards on a regular basis the 6.5 Creed maybe a better choice. Buy the cartridge that supports 80% of your needs, not the 5 or 10% of maybe. For example, when I was rebuilding my REM 700, I could have gone with the 6.5 Creed... Went with 308. I already have the dies, plenty of brass and it was highly unlikely that I was going to be shooting Beyond a thousand yards...6.5 would have been a complete waste of money for me.

There are so many choices regarding gun manufacturers now compared to when I was getting in the game it's a difficult choice for me. That said, you can't go wrong with a Tikka.

I would seriously consider looking into the classified sections here and finding yourself a well-built rifle. You can get a lot more bang for your buck there then you can getting something new.

 

[_Windrider_]

APO Snipers Hide edition rifle is a solid choice.

 

[Sniperwannabee]

Tikka in 6.5cm

 

[Totoro]

Seekins is tough to beat in turn-key. Although there are other options.

The PH2 and Bravos' I have shot were all exceptional.

 

[Longrange403]

Have you considered waiting a lil while for the Springfield waypoint? That sounds like its kind of what your looking for. Ill probably get alot of hate for this but I would also look at the savage with the proof carbon barrel. They arent the flashiest rifles out there but theyre light and accurate. You can get manners carbon fiber stocks for them as well down the road if you choose. I hunt with a 14lbs rifle but most people think im insane lol so im trying to keep my recommendations focused towards lighter weight rifles

 

[LeftyJason]

Building off what The D said above. Tikka ctr in 6.5 creed. Slap it into a chassis (Bravo or other doesn't matter). Tikkas are great out of the box with very very few problems. Trigger too heavy for your liking? $10 spring. Barrel too slow? Shouldered prefits available. Want a 2 stage trigger instead of the great factory trigger? Timney and krg midas available.

You can build on it or not without having to fix anything.

I put this together awhile ago to help.
https://www.snipershide.com/shooting/threads/tikka-t3-thread.6252615/post-7301418

 

[54PMURT]

Tikka chambered in .308, install barreled action in KRG Bravo, top with any scope you can justify. Spend the rest on ammo and range time

I’m fairly new to the bolt gun world myself but this probably won’t get too many down votes from the more seasoned members here

Tikka was the other brand I was looking at. Can you post a link to that particular rifle? Their website has so many rifles it's kind of overwhelming. And I'm not familiar with what KRG and Bravo chassis is.

Thanks so much for all the recommendations. I have looked at Savage and I will research the Springfield Waypoint.

 

[54PMURT]

APO Snipers Hide edition rifle is a solid choice.

Damn, that's looks like a nice rifle! I will definitely take a close look at it.

 

[The D]

Tikka was the other brand I was looking at. Can you post a link to that particular rifle? Their website has so many rifles it's kind of overwhelming. And I'm not familiar with what KRG and Bravo chassis is.

Thanks so much for all the recommendations. I have looked at Savage and I will research the Springfield Waypoint.

Since my recommendation is to remove the action immediately, just go to gunbroker.com and find the cheapest one you can find

But, this is what a KRG Bravo is

Bravo Chassis – Kinetic Research Group

kineticresearchgroup.com

 

[BikePilot]

I don’t think you can go wrong with the tikka, seekins or APO. 308 or 6.5 will work. 6.5 will have a little less recoil, shoots flatter and is much less sensitive to wind. It’ll also stretch out a bit further but that extra distance may not matter. 308 barrels will last a lot longer.

 

[SonicBurlap]

Besides the aforementioned options, and without having to do a build yourself there is also this with an action by Defiance, a well known custom action builder:

BadRock Precision Rifles South Fork - Firearms for tactical and target use.

BadRock Rifles are built for tactical and target use, the South Fork uses a precision bolt action, set into an aluminum chassis. Call us at 406-897-2776.

badrockrifles.com

 

[Harman117]

Consider going a less expensive route like a Bergara HMR (~$900) and put the rest towards a better optic or a training course.

You don't have to change anything on the Bergara and it will easily accomplish your wants/needs.

Since you are very new: with something like the HMR and a respected training course under your belt you will be better than no training and a $2K+ rifle...

 

[LeftyJason]

Tikka was the other brand I was looking at. Can you post a link to that particular rifle? Their website has so many rifles it's kind of overwhelming. And I'm not familiar with what KRG and Bravo chassis is.

Thanks so much for all the recommendations. I have looked at Savage and I will research the Springfield Waypoint.

For Tikka models here are some good options depending on what you want. Assuming right handed.

308 blued jrtxc316
6.5 blued jrtxc382

308 stainless jrtxc316s
6.5 stainless jrtxc382s

 

[CrabsandFootball]

APO Snipers Hide edition rifle is a solid choice.

A shitty factory Remington AAC-SD dropped in a Chassis for $2K? A $400 barreled action dropped into a $1600 chassis. Yea that makes sense........Not

That is terrible terrible advice when one could have an actual semi-custom/Production gun for $2K From any number of vendors.

Or a CTR dropped in Bravo for $1200.
Or a HMR for $900.
Or a Tikka Tac A1 for $1500.

 

[acudaowner]

welcome from delaware

 

[stefan73]

Tikka

Aiming, how much money do you have for optics? Get good optics!

Think about how you plan to achieve a steady position? Bipod, bag, what type of rest?

Ammunition? Reload, load development or factory ammo and finding which factory ammo works best for your rifle?


BTW, good choice in suppressors!

 

[Halfnutz]

My vote would be to look at the Tikka as well.

I have the APO SH edition in .308. It is accurate and not a bad choice. APO supposedly cherry picks the barreled actions. They are not a full blue print. I got it used here with less than 20 rds through it for a good price and am happy with it for what it is. It did run 175great FGMM on the slow side at just over 2600fps. It is only avilable in .308 w a 20" barrel. I wanted the 6.5 but APO never returned my emails. This has been mentioned by others.
Used the APO rifle in Frank and Marks class this past summer, it's beyond acceptable for a first rifle for you.
My other option for the class was a Savage in .308, or a LaRue Tactical UU kit in 6.5cm. The Savage shoots as good or better than the APO, but they seem to have a reliability reputation, I didn't want to chance it. The .308 seemed like the perfect round to take to class; more drop, more wind drift. The 6.5 would have been easier, it did go as a back up.

Recommended a Tikka to a coworker in 6.5cm, out of the box it was impressive.

 

[54PMURT]

You guys are great! I appreciate all of the opinions and advice. I will be referring back to these comments during my search and will hopefully be reporting back soon with pics.

 

[Rockdoc173]

You're going to get a million options on a thread like this. To quantify and keep track of them, I recommend making a list of things you need the gun to do and thing you'd like it to do. Then, make a list with the options that will help you attain the items in the first list. Divide your total available funds into categories like ammo, handloading equipment (if that's something you'd like to try), t r a i n i n g, secondary equipment like bags or tripods, a scope (please don't put a $10 scope on aa $2k rifle), upgrades, etc. This is a great time to be in the precision rifle game because there are so many option in guns and optics for affordable prices. Just don't get sidetracked by noise, play the long game.

As far as caliber goes, there's nothing wrong with a 308 but I think you'll be much happier with the CM, either 6 or 6.5. If you're hurting, maybe go with 6.5 <500yd due to kinetic energy. I can think of no reason why 308 would be advantageous. I started out with a 700 SPS in 308 and it worked, but it wasn't long and I was looking for something else. I still have that gun (though it's now a 7mm-08) but I would not make that same choice now. Skip that step and go to the 6.5.

Glass. Check out the Viper PST Gen2 from Vortex. Or the Gen1 Razor, it's a fantastic entry-level scope and you can get them in the 'For Sale' section for a steal compared to their quality. There's also the Bushnell offerings like the DMR/XTR. Athalon is another one that has blossomed in the last few years. I have buddies that swear by the BTR/ETR lines.

 

[54PMURT]

You're going to get a million options on a thread like this. To quantify and keep track of them, I recommend making a list of things you need the gun to do and thing you'd like it to do. Then, make a list with the options that will help you attain the items in the first list. Divide your total available funds into categories like ammo, handloading equipment (if that's something you'd like to try), t r a i n i n g, secondary equipment like bags or tripods, a scope (please don't put a $10 scope on aa $2k rifle), upgrades, etc. This is a great time to be in the precision rifle game because there are so many option in guns and optics for affordable prices. Just don't get sidetracked by noise, play the long game.

As far as caliber goes, there's nothing wrong with a 308 but I think you'll be much happier with the CM, either 6 or 6.5. If you're hurting, maybe go with 6.5 <500yd due to kinetic energy. I can think of no reason why 308 would be advantageous. I started out with a 700 SPS in 308 and it worked, but it wasn't long and I was looking for something else. I still have that gun (though it's now a 7mm-08) but I would not make that same choice now. Skip that step and go to the 6.5.

Glass. Check out the Viper PST Gen2 from Vortex. Or the Gen1 Razor, it's a fantastic entry-level scope and you can get them in the 'For Sale' section for a steal compared to their quality. There's also the Bushnell offerings like the DMR/XTR. Athalon is another one that has blossomed in the last few years. I have buddies that swear by the BTR/ETR lines.

Great advice. I was thinking .308 bc I bought the larger TBAC and figured I should use it to it's fullest potential then back down after. I'm not adverse to the 6.5 CM. I really like the design and reputation of the Seekins Havak Bravo. And I won't skimp on the scope. The great advice is noted!

 

[MATADOR]

Tikka CTR in a KRG Bravo

 

[DarnYankeeUSMC]

You need to check with your local/state hunting regulations. It's illegal to hunt with a suppressed rifle in many places.
Just a word of caution amongst all the other advice.
Good luck with your adventures

 

[54PMURT]

Tikka CTR in a KRG Bravo

T3x Compact 20" or 24"? Not the T3x Lite, right? And, other than hand and barrel length, how do I know which one in 6.5CM when there are several to choose from on their website. I do like the Tikka with the KRG Bravo chassis look. What are some options of use for the left over Tikka chassis?

Edit: Tikka has several T3x CTRs with the same specs, caliber but different model numbers. Should I assume they are the same? Also, any reason not to spend a little extra on the KRG XRay chassis?

 

[LeftyJason]

T3x Compact 20" or 24"? Not the T3x Lite, right? And, other than hand and barrel length, how do I know which one in 6.5CM when there are several to choose from on their website. I do like the Tikka with the KRG Bravo chassis look. What are some options of use for the left over Tikka chassis?

Edit: Tikka has several T3x CTRs with the same specs, caliber but different model numbers. Should I assume they are the same?

Go here. https://choose.tikka.fi/usa
Easiest way to do it is click on modify to sort by caliber and handedness. Click on compact tactical either blued or stainless. Ignore the adjustable version we can't get it. Only look at model numbers that start with jrt. Others we can't get. Haven't seen any come in with set trigger so mostly ignore the ending of st. 'ca' in the jrt part number means 24".

Also helps to go to eurooptic and see what they list along with looking at Gunbroker for what's available.

 

[54PMURT]

Go here. https://choose.tikka.fi/usa
Easiest way to do it is click on modify to sort by caliber and handedness. Click on compact tactical either blued or stainless. Ignore the adjustable version we can't get it. Only look at model numbers that start with jrt. Others we can't get. Haven't seen any come in with set trigger so mostly ignore the ending of st. 'ca' in the jrt part number means 24".

Also helps to go to eurooptic and see what they list along with looking at Gunbroker for what's available.

Thank you. That helps a lot.

 

[TxWelder35]

If your goal is just hunting with a little steel banging mixed in, get a Bergara b14 HMR in 6.5 creed for $850, slap a Vortex 5-25 gen 2 viper pst on top for $800, atlas cal bipod, and spend as much as you can afford on hornady 140eldm match ammo. Then go take a class with whatever is left. That will put you miles ahead.

for your application, I don’t think anything much more than that is going to buy you any extra performance.

 

[54PMURT]

Tikka chambered in .308, install barreled action in KRG Bravo,

I have looked everywhere for the Tikka .308 and no one has them. Any sites you think might have one? There are none on gunbroker.

 

[The D]

I have looked everywhere for the Tikka .308 and no one has them. Any sites you think might have one? There are none on gunbroker.

Bolt Action Rifles for Sale - Buy Bolt Action Rifles at GunBroker.com

Find bolt action rifles for sale at GunBroker.com, the world's largest gun auction site. You can buy bolt action rifles with confidence from thousands of sellers who list every day at GunBroker.com. Get the bolt action rifles you want today.

www.gunbroker.com

They have gone up in price quite a bit since the last time I looked

edit: it didn’t save all of the search criteria I initially put in but filter for .308 and Tikka manufacturer then sort by lowest price. There were plenty of results when I just did this

 

[Spartan67]

@54murt
Welcome to our dysfunctional family!
Keep'm straight, and keep'm in the X zone!

 

[54PMURT]

Bolt Action Rifles for Sale - Buy Bolt Action Rifles at GunBroker.com

Find bolt action rifles for sale at GunBroker.com, the world's largest gun auction site. You can buy bolt action rifles with confidence from thousands of sellers who list every day at GunBroker.com. Get the bolt action rifles you want today.

www.gunbroker.com

They have gone up in price quite a bit since the last time I looked

edit: it didn’t save all of the search criteria I initially put in but filter for .308 and Tikka manufacturer then sort by lowest price. There were plenty of results when I just did this

Most of those say Lite, Lite compact Tac A1 etc... I did find one that says .308 compact and it says "new old stock". I sent a message to ask if it's model number JRTXC316. https://www.gunbroker.com/item/883670997

Will the T3x Lite models work just as well and fit into a KRG Bravo chassis?

 

[LeftyJason]

Most of those say Lite, Lite compact Tac A1 etc... I did find one that says .308 compact and it says "new old stock". I sent a message to ask if it's model number JRTXC316. https://www.gunbroker.com/item/883670997

Will the T3x Lite models work just as well and fit into a KRG Bravo chassis?

Do not go lite if you're wanting to stick your can on immediately. They will fit perfectly fine but barrels are skinny. They don't come threaded and from published recommended sizes are too small (for shoulder size) to thread 5/8 without going short barrel rifle.

Plenty of 6.5 creed and 260 Remington on Gunbroker. Search 'Tikka ctr'. You're also buying in the middle of the greatest gun run ever.

Could also try cabelas or bass pro.

 

[54PMURT]

Do not go lite if you're wanting to stick your can on immediately. They will fit perfectly fine but barrels are skinny.

Plenty of 6.5 creed and 260 Remington on Gunbroker. Search 'Tikka ctr'.

Okay thanks. Looks like I'll go with the 6.5 if I can't find a .308 in a few days. Thanks for all the help.

 

[Halfnutz]

Most of those say Lite, Lite compact Tac A1 etc... I did find one that says .308 compact and it says "new old stock". I sent a message to ask if it's model number JRTXC316. https://www.gunbroker.com/item/883670997

Will the T3x Lite models work just as well and fit into a KRG Bravo chassis?

My coworker was looking at the lite. I talked him into the heavier barrel as well. He's happy.

 

[LeftyJason]

My coworker was looking at the lite. I talked him into the heavier barrel as well. He's happy.

Some of us don't have the option to go heavy barrel. Lefty and stainless you're limited to the lighter profile.

 

[Griz375]

Well you're right about the direction you chose; it is different & wouldn't have been my chosen path. Having said that, it's not necessarily wrong. Generally I've picked the cartridge based on the application, then the rifle/optic combo and THEN things like a suppressor. Of course, I'm the kind of person who thinks a N Blue or Black suit is the height of fashion - a tad traditional.

As long as you get to where you need to be -- you ON TARGET, who cares?

 

[Bourbon_and_Bullets]

+1 for tikka ctr in 6.5

unreal accuracy with factory ammo.

 

[Yondering]

Great advice. I was thinking .308 bc I bought the larger TBAC and figured I should use it to it's fullest potential then back down after. I'm not adverse to the 6.5 CM. I really like the design and reputation of the Seekins Havak Bravo. And I won't skimp on the scope. The great advice is noted!

That's not really how it works though. Using your can on a 308 is not using it to any "fuller potential" than on a 6.5 Creedmoor. You aren't magically getting more out of the suppressor by using a 30 cal instead of 6.5; it just means your suppressor can handle up to 30 caliber. Get the 6.5 if that's your only reason for choosing 308.

As said above, unless you're already invested in 308 (and the suppressor doesn't count) then I can't think of any good reason to choose that instead of the 6.5 Creedmoor.

 

[Jonesing to shoot]

Look up modern day sniper. They just did a tikka budget build with a ctr

 

[MATADOR]

T3x Compact 20" or 24"? Not the T3x Lite, right? And, other than hand and barrel length, how do I know which one in 6.5CM when there are several to choose from on their website. I do like the Tikka with the KRG Bravo chassis look. What are some options of use for the left over Tikka chassis?

Edit: Tikka has several T3x CTRs with the same specs, caliber but different model numbers. Should I assume they are the same? Also, any reason not to spend a little extra on the KRG XRay chassis?

Not the compact. A CTR model. I have the 20" stainless barrel version as I hunt with it also. I am not sure about model numbers but you have your choice in blued or stainless, and 20" or 24" barrel.

 

[7Ultraman]

Have you considered waiting a lil while for the Springfield waypoint? That sounds like its kind of what your looking for. Ill probably get alot of hate for this but I would also look at the savage with the proof carbon barrel. They arent the flashiest rifles out there but theyre light and accurate. You can get manners carbon fiber stocks for them as well down the road if you choose. I hunt with a 14lbs rifle but most people think im insane lol so im trying to keep my recommendations focused towards lighter weight rifles

Have you considered waiting a lil while for the Springfield waypoint? That sounds like its kind of what your looking for. Ill probably get alot of hate for this but I would also look at the savage with the proof carbon barrel. They arent the flashiest rifles out there but theyre light and accurate. You can get manners carbon fiber stocks for them as well down the road if you choose. I hunt with a 14lbs rifle but most people think im insane lol so im trying to keep my recommendations focused towards lighter weight rifles

I recently bought the Savage Ultralite with the Proof Research carbon fiber barrel in 6.5 PRC. It is definitely a shooter (Consistent .500 - .600 groups with factory 147gr ELDM’s @ 100 yds). With the skeletonized receiver, blue printed action and PR Carbon fiber barrel It’s a lot of gun for $1100. I would have spent 2-3 times that building a lightweight rifle. I wish I would have bought it 3 guns ago. It also shoot amazing through my TBAC ULTRA9.
You can’t go wrong with the Tikka or the Seekins not to mention that there are a lot of other really good choices out there. Good luck and enjoy what ever you decide on.

 

[hwy1strat]

I'll be that guy that offers a different perspective... Just go all in now. It will save you money in the long run. Pick up a Bighorn TL3 and a prefit barrel. Throw a trigger tech on it and drop it into whatever chassis or stock floats your boat. Spend the money to get the rifle now instead of buying a rifle that you will leave in the safe once you upgrade down the road.

Not saying this path is correct, just another option. Looking back on my adventure into the long range shooting world, I would have a lot more money left over now if I had just skipped the buying and upgrading "cheap" rifles stage.


Those Seekins rifles are excellent rifles btw. My Father-in-law has a PH2 and I love it. Very nice hunting rifle with a great feel to it.

 

[54PMURT]

Thanks for all the help!!! I purchased the Tikka T3X CTR 20" Stainless in 6.5 CM. I found a great deal at oakhillguns.com (994.00 out the door). I'll figure out what KRG Bravo color (probably black) when I get the rifle. Any advice on a scope is appreciated. I'd like to spend no more than 600.00 on the scope. Thanks.

 

[Bourbon_and_Bullets]

Thanks for all the help!!! I purchased the Tikka T3X CTR 20" Stainless in 6.5 CM. I found a great deal at oakhillguns.com (994.00 out the door). I'll figure out what KRG Bravo color (probably black) when I get the rifle. Any advice on a scope is appreciated. I'd like to spend no more than 600.00 on the scope. Thanks.

Regarding scope, it is really dependent on what you’ll spend the majority time doing. If you will be doing more long range, go with the scope for that application.

i had to make the same call on my hunting rig and went with a scope that can do both well.

rigs:

Long Range - Tikka CTR 6.5 -Athlon Ares ETR

Hunting - tikka t3x superlite 7mag - SWFA 3-9-42 HD.

the swfa is bomb proof, has excellent glass for the price point, and has very usable turrets and reticle. I believe they are also running a blow out sale for demo units. So, you could get into it and spend the rest on ammo.

Athlon Midas Tac and Ares BTR also worth a look as scopes that can do both.

 

[Abbotm2]

Athlon Ares btr 4.5-27 illuminated can be had for $500 used. I’ve done plenty of hunting with mine.

 

[Lionsbreath]

#44 post has good advice, I should have done that, and now I could be shooting an AI.. Wait another month till your Christmas bonus and bump your budget up a bit, and you’ll thank me later.. 6.5 Creedmoor

 

[260284]

Thanks for all the help!!! I purchased the Tikka T3X CTR 20" Stainless in 6.5 CM. I found a great deal at oakhillguns.com (994.00 out the door). I'll figure out what KRG Bravo color (probably black) when I get the rifle. Any advice on a scope is appreciated. I'd like to spend no more than 600.00 on the scope. Thanks.

Look for a used Bushnell LRHS or LRSTi on here. They are a great FFP hunting scope. I took my 20" .260 CTR out to 1400 yards with the 4.5-18 LRHS and have shot deer and coyotes as close as 50 yards.

If you have the extra cash, a TL3 is a great option to build off of.

Before you buy a stock, check out the German Gun Stock line. I use a MDT ACC for a match rifle, but the GGS Reaper is what my CTR is in now.