Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

[savages]

This will be my build log for Gungnir.
"In Norse mythology, Gungnir is Odin's magical spear it always hits its mark and always kills."

Purpose of the rifle is to become my primary hunting weapon.
Deer, prarie dogs, coyotes, etc..

Limiting the weight to ~10 pounds.

Build list is as follows.
Tikka T3 Lite Stainless in .243
Zeiss 4.5x14x50 mildot target turrets
EGW 0MOA Aluminum base
TPS 1" Aluminum rings
KMW Bolt knob
Manners T4 stock

Without the factory stock and with the optics mounted, it weights 7.5lbs.
The Manners T4 stock I plan on getting weights 2.8lbs

I'm going to be sitting at ~10.3lbs total weight.

Waiting on my Scope lapping kit and Devcon right now.

I will be trying my hand at bedding the scope base and stock.

Once I get the base bedded I will mount everything and start working up the 95gr VLD load while I save up for the stock.

 

[sharac]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Nice one keep reporting as you continue your build...

BTW: Is bolt also smooth even though its not teflon coated (my tactical has this coating which is slowly wearing off)?

 

[grampyg]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Gotta love those tikka's I have 3 595's and I am looking for my next which will probaly be a T3 left handed of course. Keep us posted.

 

[razzle]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

*Tagged*

Will definately keep an eye on this thread.
Slightly OT, what was the turnaround time on the T4 stock?

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Anyone know the propper way of removing the trigger assembly?

It looks like its pinned on.

I have to remove it in order to properly bed the stock.

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Sharac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nice one keep reporting as you continue your build...

BTW: Is bolt also smooth even though its not teflon coated (my tactical has this coating which is slowly wearing off)?</div></div>

It is VERY smooth and I can't tell if there is a coating on it or if its just polished good. The tactical bolts have a coating on them? Do you have a picture of what the coating looks like when it starts to wear off?

 

[trigger time]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Not pinned. Unless they changed them.

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

I'm guessing its the large hex screw on the bottom, now that I look at it closer.

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

That's how mine comes out on my TRG-22. Did they send you a manual? It should be in there.

Josh

 

[gszeto99]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savages</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm guessing its the large hex screw on the bottom, now that I look at it closer.


</div></div>

It is in fact the large hex screw at the bottom that you need to remove to remove the entire trigger group.

Hope this helps,

Gene

 

[gszeto99]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savages</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Sharac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nice one keep reporting as you continue your build...

BTW: Is bolt also smooth even though its not teflon coated (my tactical has this coating which is slowly wearing off)?</div></div>

It is VERY smooth and I can't tell if there is a coating on it or if its just polished good. The tactical bolts have a coating on them? Do you have a picture of what the coating looks like when it starts to wear off?

</div></div>

The tacticals have a black finish and it almost looks like it was a duracoat finish. The bolts that keep it's original bare metal colors from tikka and sako do not have this coating; they are just finished in a really smooth finish giving you that nice slick action that tikka and sako are famous for. My master sporter had this super slick finish. My tikka tactical has the black "duracoat?" finish that is also starting to wear off exposing the bare metal underneath.

Gene

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: gszeto99</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The tacticals have a black finish and it almost looks like it was a duracoat finish. The bolts that keep it's original bare metal colors from tikka and sako do not have this coating; they are just finished in a really smooth finish giving you that nice slick action that tikka and sako are famous for. My master sporter had this super slick finish. My tikka tactical has the black "duracoat?" finish that is also starting to wear off exposing the bare metal underneath.

Gene </div></div>

It is manganese phosphate. Says so on the website. My TRG has the same coating, sometimes they refer to them as having been phosphatized.
Manganese Phosphate Info

Josh

 

[gszeto99]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MinorDamage</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: gszeto99</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The tacticals have a black finish and it almost looks like it was a duracoat finish. The bolts that keep it's original bare metal colors from tikka and sako do not have this coating; they are just finished in a really smooth finish giving you that nice slick action that tikka and sako are famous for. My master sporter had this super slick finish. My tikka tactical has the black "duracoat?" finish that is also starting to wear off exposing the bare metal underneath.

Gene </div></div>

It is manganese phosphate. Says so on the website. My TRG has the same coating, sometimes they refer to them as having been phosphatized.
Manganese Phosphate Info

Josh
</div></div>

Ok Good to know. Thanks


Gene

 

[sharac]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

I think bolt is covered with something else. Barrel is phosphatized however on the bolt there is a layer which does not "scratch" but flakes off - will add picture when i get home. I've read somewhere (http://www.tikka.fi/t3models.php?tactical) that its teflon coated. While action is still smooth bolt sure does look a bit ugly with slide marks appearing and hefty chunks missing from front of the bolt. But as it's meant to be used i don't mind that.

I must say SS models look way better (not to mention they are cheaper than tac. version).

Edit: Added link from Tikka website.

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Sharac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I think bolt is covered with something else. Barrel is phosphatized however on the bolt there is a layer which does not "scratch" but flakes off - will add picture when i get home. I've read somewhere (http://www.tikka.fi/t3models.php?tactical) that its teflon coated. While action is still smooth bolt sure does look a bit ugly with slide marks appearing and hefty chunks missing from front of the bolt. But as it's meant to be used i don't mind that.

I must say SS models look way better (not to mention they are cheaper than tac. version).

Edit: Added link from Tikka website. </div></div>

Sharac,

As I was. I can tell that the coating is just a bit rougher on the action and barrel on my TRG. The TRG manual doesn't state what the coatings are, but I guess I can surmise it is probably teflon.

Josh

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

UPS man came today.

Going to be doing some research on how I should go about bedding my scope base.

I plan on documenting the process of the bedding and lapping.

 

[DeepEastKilla]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

very cool im subbed. my 11-87 sportsman has the black coating you guys were talking about on the tactical version. i dont like it becuase it rust with moisture on the receiver and any scratch will bring out the metal and give rust another place to start! but i do like the gun overall. thats the main reason i want to get the super varmint over the tactical version of the t3. i was originally set on the lite stainless but ive been thinking more about the super varmint. im not sure what ill do when the time comes that i can get it.

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Its bad when I think I got a deal at $55/per mag.
These damn things are hard to find.

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

So I checked to see if i needed to bed the scope base tonight.
Based on the directions from Matt over at Sniper Central it doesn't appear that I need to bed the base.

Directions here.
Scope Bedding How To

The rear 2 screws torqued to 15 inch lbs.
Couldn't find my feeler gauge so I used what I had.
Unable to slide a piece of paper that's .003 thick in between the base and receiver.

Front 2 screws torqued to 15 inch lbs.
Unable to slide a piece of paper that's .003 thick in between the base and receiver.

I do however have to cut the front of my base in order to mount the scope where I want it for eye relief.
Any idea what the best way to go about doing that would be?

 

[Eagle_Eye]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

I also have a Tikka Tac in .300 WM and i believe that the bolt is covered in teflon, def. different to the material that is used on the barrel and M/brake.

Savages, are you going to cut the bolt head off and get the aftermarket unit welded or...?

Also are the Manners T4 made to fit the Tikka or does it have to be modified/special ordered?

 

[Eagle_Eye]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

this is from the Tikka Website

"TIKKA T3 TACTICAL based on a two locking lug T3 action. Bolt features springloaded plunger ejector and it can be
easily stripped down for maintenance. Bolt is made of stainless steel and tefloncoated. Other outer steel parts are
manganese phosphatized."

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Eagle_eye</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I also have a Tikka Tac in .300 WM and i believe that the bolt is covered in teflon, def. different to the material that is used on the barrel and M/brake.

Savages, are you going to cut the bolt head off and get the aftermarket unit welded or...?

Also are the Manners T4 made to fit the Tikka or does it have to be modified/special ordered?
</div></div>

Yes the handle is going to a gunsmith to get it threaded for the bolt knob.

 

[dtask]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savages</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I do however have to cut the front of my base in order to mount the scope where I want it for eye relief.
Any idea what the best way to go about doing that would be?
</div></div>

 

[Matthais_31]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Hi there

Good effort for deciding to do a T3 build; I think youll be very happy with the end result! Quick question though - why did you decide to go with an additional rail instead of using Tikka's Optilock ring/mount combo?

Matthais_31

 

[razzle]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Probably because the additional rail is a Picatinny..?
Just a thought

 

[Matthais_31]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Sorry if this is obvious, but what is the advantage of a Picatinny rail over any other form of mount? Is it simply compatibility? or are they meant to offer better/more secure mounting? I have heard the latter mentioned on occasion, but I had no issues holding zero using the Tikka's dovetail/optilock combination.

Matthais_31

 

[tmanners]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Eagle_eye</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I also have a Tikka Tac in .300 WM and i believe that the bolt is covered in teflon, def. different to the material that is used on the barrel and M/brake.

Savages, are you going to cut the bolt head off and get the aftermarket unit welded or...?

Also are the Manners T4 made to fit the Tikka or does it have to be modified/special ordered?
</div></div>We have a special version of our mcs-t4 just for the tikka. It is a standard inlet for this stock no special order. It is considered a bolt in and go. Thank you very much,

 

[razzle]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Tom,
I PM'd you a little over a week ago, did you get it?


Sorry for the hijack.

 

[tmanners]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: razzle</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Tom,
I PM'd you a little over a week ago, did you get it?


Sorry for the hijack. </div></div>Just pinged you back, Thanks

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Matthais31</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Hi there

Good effort for deciding to do a T3 build; I think youll be very happy with the end result! Quick question though - why did you decide to go with an additional rail instead of using Tikka's Optilock ring/mount combo?

Matthais_31 </div></div>
picatiny was a large reason. The Tikka rings were to short for the scope and i wanted rings that if need be i can move to another of my rifles.

 

[jfk]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

I have a T3 Tactical in .308. I chopped the bolt handle off and made my own extended version. I got the Aluminum bolt shroud from Fiona (HSS), looks great. I'm planning to machine my own muzzle brake this weekend. My MCS T4 is on order (Mr. Manners was a pleasure to talk to. I'm stoked), nine weeks out though (AARRRGGGGHHH). The Manners stock requires the existing aluminum plate from the factory stock. CDI is planning to make a metal bottom lower at the end of the first quarter. Can't wait to get this rig together.

 

[ck867]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

I found a decent deal on a used tikka t3 and this thread has me motivated to buy it and do a similiar build for hunting.

 

[JamieD]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

I've had my T-3 lite in .243 for quit a while and it is a shooter and most I talk to that have one say the same. The action is slick and have shot many chucks with her and a couple deer.

Looks good and lets see the range report.

JameD
Wolf Precision
All Hogs Go to Heaven

Here she is with a new paint job.

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

I will have a range report after I get my bolt handle back from the gunsmith.

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Removed the forward portion of the base last night. Used a cutoff wheel on a grinder, sanded and then painted the cut area flat black. You have to look hard to notice the color difference.
I also found my feeler gauge and was not able to get even the smallest .0013 gauge under the base.
Good enough for me. Placed Loctite on the screws and torqued them down to 20 inch lbs. Put the lower half of the rings on and torqued the hex nuts to 60 inch lbs

Then I placed the aligning bars in and everything was dead nuts.

Removed the alignment bars and placed the lapping bar in. Put a decent coating of the lapping compound on and worked it in.
Here is the results of the lapping.

Cleaned the rings up with some brake cleaner, then put the scope in leveled the reticule and torqued the screws to 20 inch lbs.


Here is what it looks like so far.

The bolt is getting sent to Ordnance System Designs to have the knob installed.
Hopefully have that back in a week or so.

I'm extremely pleased with the alignment and how everything went together.

While I wait for the bolt to come back I will start working on the loads for it.

 

[Eagle_Eye]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Looking good savages

what range is this gun going to predominantly be used at?

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Out to whatever range I fell comfortable with and the ballistics will allow. Which isn't that far right now compared to most of you guys. I don't have much experience with shooting past 350yds.

This summer i'm going to go watch some F Class matches up at Elk River and see if its something I want to get into.

 

[DeepEastKilla]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

your making me think about getting the lite stainless again....

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DeepEastKilla</div><div class="ubbcode-body">your making me think about getting the lite stainless again.... </div></div>

So far it seems to be a very comfortable platform.

Make your decision after I post the range report.

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Just checked the windage and elevation on the scope.

Advertised adjustments are E68.0 W45.0
The scope actually has 68 in elevation and 46 in windage.

Both have been zero'd out. Its now ready for the initial sight in on paper.

 

[itguy]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Hope you like it. I in in the hunt for a varmint version in .308 for a good price. Cant wait to hear the report.

 

[steve123]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dtask</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savages</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I do however have to cut the front of my base in order to mount the scope where I want it for eye relief.
Any idea what the best way to go about doing that would be?
</div></div>

</div></div>

I like the way you put things

 

[Eagle_Eye]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

For those of you that are doing your own Tikka builds you can get a Genuine over sized bolt knob from TIkka itself.

I Just ordered mine, and while at the gun shop i just picked up another Tactical in .223!

Very Happy!

Link to the bolt knob pic is:

http://www.tikka.fi/t3models.php?tactical#

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Someone laid claim to my rifle...

He loves guns so I figured I might as well start teaching him early since he is around them all the time.

Working on familiarizing him with what a scope is. He called it his knockers because he got a pair of binoculars for Christmas and he calls them "knockers".

He laid on the floor next to it for 5 - 10 min just looking down the scope and at it in general. I just sat back and reminded him to keep his finger off the trigger.



I'm a lucky dad.

 

[Eagle_Eye]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

haha thats great!

his going to be an ace!

 

[dreamlander]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savages</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Its bad when I think I got a deal at $55/per mag.
These damn things are hard to find.

</div></div>

I bought a couple mags like these for $55 as well. What is up with the color though? Like I really want a shiny red mag hanging out the bottom of my all black gun. I painted them black as soon as I got them.

Kind of funny before reading this thread I put the same EGW rail (mine has 20 moa) on my Tikka T3 Lite .308 today. Then I mounted a trijicon accupoint with valdada rings and thought I was going to have to cut the rail off as well, but the scope has good eye relief and is back just far enough. I thought I was all good to go when 10 min after I set the gun down I heard a popping sound. Picked the gun up and heard two more. 4 of the 8 screws had snapped off on the scope rings. I torqued them to 25 in/lb with my Warne torque wrench and did the exact same thing I have done on the last 7 scope mount jobs. Even if the torque wrench wasn't working, and they were over torqued I can't imagine it would be enough to snap the screws. Seems strange I have never heard of this before. Bad screws by chance?

 

[Eagle_Eye]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

they must have been over torqued, the wrench may need an adjustment

i never really use a torque wrench, though this has never happened to me or my shooting buddies.

savages... any news on the build?

 

[itguy]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Im curious as well. I have been trying to decide between varmint and lite. If the light shoots just as good that will give me more money towards the stock or glass. And then Ill put a big heavy barrel on it later. Any, just curious what you are finding out with your Lite.

 

[savages]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Eagle_eye</div><div class="ubbcode-body">they must have been over torqued, the wrench may need an adjustment

i never really use a torque wrench, though this has never happened to me or my shooting buddies.

savages... any news on the build?


</div></div>

Today I finally mailed out the handle and Surgeon bolt knob to Ordnance System Designs. Hopefully the turn around time won't be more then a week or two.

Haven't had a chance to load up any rounds yet.

 

[BgBmBoo]

Re: Tikka T3 Build - " Gungnir "

Just FYI there is a member here who makes a drop in bolt/handle for the T3.

Take care,Stan

Here one is: