We like well-executed DIY (Do-It-Yourself) projects. You can save money with DIY projects, and often create something unique and special that can’t be purchased from any vendor. That’s the case with this very cool double shooting bench built by Jacob D., a pilot and 6.5 Creedmoor shooter. The design of the bench is smart — it allows two right-handed shooters, but it can also handle a right-hander and a left-hander. (The lefty sets up in the right half of the bench.)
Jacob, who flies for Arizona’s Mesa Airlines, built his own side-by-side benchrest shooting bench. He then posted photos of this on the 6.5 Creedmoor Group Facebook Page. We like this — very nice work Jacob!
Jacob writes: “Sighting in my new Ruger Precision Rifle with Leupold VX3i LRP 6.5-20x50mm and Burris tactical rings, using my benchrest table I built. Very happy with the combo!”
There is plenty of room for two shooters and two rifles on Jacob’s big and sturdy DIY shooting bench.
Proper eye protection is ‘must-have’ gear for shooting sports. In addition to providing reliable impact protection, good shooting glasses should be comfortable, fog-free, and not interfere with your preferred hearing protection. Those who require corrective lenses also need to consider the various options available. In a past episode of their Weekly Gear Review, the 6.5 Guys discuss a variety of shooting glasses they have tried, including examples from DeCot, Oakley, and Wiley-X. Ed and Steve outline the key considerations when choosing eye protection, and then review practical aspects of eyewear design and construction that enhance comfort and functionality in the field.
The 6.5 Guys (Ed and Steve) offer a number of smart tips consider safety eyewear, helping you select the most effective safety glasses at an affordable price. Here are the 6.5 Guys’ KEY Take-aways when choosing shooting glasses, including prescription eyewear:
Key Things To Consider When Choosing Eye Protection
1. Avoid polarized lenses or lenses that reduce light transmission significantly (except for action shooting in very bright conditions with large, close targets).
2. Avoid frame designs that interfere with prone shooting.
3. Avoid designs that easily fog.
4. Avoid frame designs with thicker temples that are uncomfortable to wear underneath hearing protection.
5. Select lenses with an appropriate degree of ballistic protection. CLICK HERE to learn more about eyewear safety standards.
6. When you get your prescription, be sure your ophthalmologist includes the interpupillary distance. This is a critical measurement particularly for heavier prescriptions.
7. If you have a complicated prescription select a vendor who will actually spend time with you to address any concerns.
Horrific .50 BMG Kaboom — Eye Saved by Protective Eyewear
Think you don’t need eye protection? Watch this video starting at 4:10. The screw-on barrel “cap” (chamber closure) of the .50 BMG action flies into the shooter’s face. Without eye protection the shooter would have definitely lost his right eye. (See video at 5:20 for analysis).
Safety First — Your Eyes Are Irreplaceable Accurate shooting begins and ends with the human eye. Your career as a marksman could be cut short if you don’t use good eye protection every time you go to the range and/or handle a firearm.
Every year, over 1,000,000 people suffer serious eye injuries. Shooting is hazardous; it is estimated that there are 30,000 firearms-related eye injuries each year (if you include paintball sports.) After paintball, general hunting accidents comprise most firearms-related eye injuries.
Quality eye protection need not be expensive. You can find comfortable, ANSI Z87.1-certified shooting glasses for under $10.00.
If you select shooting glasses carefully, and ensure that your eyewear is safety-certified, inexpensive shooting glasses can perform very well. But you need to avoid cheap, soft-plastic lenses that claim “impact resistance” without satisfying a testing standard.
Do you own an RCBS electronic powder dispenser? If you do, take the time to watch this ChargeMaster Tuning video from 8541 Tactical. This nine-minute video demonstrates how to re-program your ChargeMaster to “tune” the dispensing process. The video shows the exact programming procedures to follow, step-by-step. Some folks want a faster powder flow — others tune their machines for a more reliable drop (with fewer over-runs). One cheap and popular modification is to insert a 1″-long section of a McDonald’s plastic straw in the ChargeMaster’s silver dispensing tube. This works surprisingly well to smooth kernel drop and prevent “clumping” that can cause an over-charge. The McDonald’s straw MOD is demonstrated in this video, starting at the 6:22 mark.
Large-Diameter Dispensing Tube Mod
Many folks have had success with the McDonald’s straw modification demonstrated in the above video. However, some folks would like to get even better flow performance (with virtually no clumping). Forum Member Frank B. has come up with a new option using a brass hose fitting with a large outside diameter. The hose fitting (with tape wrapped around the barbed nose section) is placed inside the RCBS dispensing tube (have some kind of wrap — you don’t want metal-on-metal). Here’s how the unit looks installed:
Frank tells us: “I have found a cure for the over-throw problem. It is a simple 1/4″ barbed hose nipple. I wrapped a couple layers of tape around the barbed end for a snug fit. With this in place, I have thrown 100+ charges of Varget without a single overthrow. The ID of the barbed end needs to be approximately 3/16″ to feed a steady flow. This works because of the larger ID at the drop.”
Frank adds: “You can see in the photo that the powder is not stacking up. You can watch it drop one grain at a time. Hope this will take the aggravation out of your case charging.” For best performance with this brass fitting MOD, we recommend de-burring and smoothing out the front edge of the brass fitting over which the kernels drop.
Brass fitting mod suggested by Boyd Allen. We welcome reader submissions.
Rifleshooter.com does some great original research — providing “hard data” you can’t find anywhere else. Here are the eye-opening results of Rifleshooter.com’s 6.5 Creedmoor barrel cut-down test. You may be surprised at the results. Read on…
What do you get when you cut a 6.5 Creedmoor-chambered barrel down to just over 16 inches? A lot more velocity than you might think. Our friends at Rifleshooter.com conducted a remarkable barrel cut-down test with 6.5 Creedmoor test rifle, shortening the barrel from 27 to 16.1 inches in one-inch increments. Surprisingly, with a 142gr Sierra MK, the total velocity loss (as measured with a Magnetospeed) was just 158 FPS, an average of 14.4 FPS per inch of barrel length. With the lighter 120gr A-Max bullet, the total velocity loss was 233 FPS, or 21.8 FPS average loss per inch of barrel.
Test Procedure
Five (5) rounds of each type of cartridge were fired at each barrel length and the velocity data was recorded with a MagnetoSpeed V3 barrel-mounted chronograph. The rifle was then cleared and the barrel was cut back one inch at a time from 27″ to just over 16″. NOTE: During this winter test, the air temperature was a very chilly 23° F. One would expect higher velocities across the board had the outside temperature been higher.
The photo below shows how the barrel was cut down, inch-by-inch, using a rotary saw. The barrel was pre-scored at inch intervals. As the main purpose of the test was to measure velocity (not accuracy) the testers did not attempt to create perfect crowns.
6.5 Creedmoor vs. Other Mid-Sized 6.5mm Cartridges
The 6.5 Creedmoor is a very popular cartridge with the tactical and PRS crowd. This mid-size cartridge offers good ballistics, with less recoil than a .308 Winchester. There’s an excellent selection of 6.5mm bullets, and many good powder choices for this cartridge. When compared to the very accurate 6.5×47 Lapua cartridge, the 6.5 Creedmoor offers similar performance with less expensive brass. For a tactical shooter who must sometimes leave brass on the ground, brass cost is a factor to consider. Here’s a selection of various 6.5mm mid-sized cartridges. Left to right are: 6.5 Grendel, 6.5×47 Lapua, 6.5 Creedmoor with 120gr A-Max, 6.5 Creedmoor with 142gr Sierra MK, and .260 Remington.
When asked to compare the 6.5 Creedmoor to the 6.5×47 Lapua, Rifleshooter.com’s editor stated: “If you don’t hand load, or are new to precision rifle shooting, get a 6.5 Creedmoor. If you shoot a lot, reload, have more disposable income, and like more esoteric cartridges, get a 6.5×47 Lapua. I am a big fan of the 6.5×47 Lapua. In my personal experience, the 6.5×47 Lapua seems to be slightly more accurate than the 6.5 Creedmoor. I attribute this to the quality of Lapua brass.” Now that Lapua offers 6.5 Creedmoor brass with small primer pockets, the 6.5 Creedmoor is even more attractive.
The creator of Rifleshooter.com also operates a Custom Rifle Building enterprise and gun shop in Long Island, New York: 782 Custom Guns Ltd.. He tells us: “We offer an unparalleled level of gunsmith machine shop services in the Long Island region. From precision rifles (USMC M40A3/A5/A6 XM3 clones) to customized Remington 870 and Mossberg 590 shotguns, and customized 1911s, chances are if you can dream it, we can build it!”
ZEISS Announces Spring Binoculars Promotion
ZEISS, the respected German optics maker, has kicked off its “Spring into Savings” event through participating ZEISS authorized retailers. This promotion runs April 15 through May 15, 2023, offering major instant savings on high quality ZEISS Binoculars. And when you purchase ZEISS binoculars from EuroOptic.com, you get speedy RED Expedited Shipping. Here are the Spring Savings Instant Rebate offers on ZEISS Binoculars:
$150 Instant Rebate on ZEISS SFL 40 Binoculars
$100 Instant Rebate on ZEISS Conquest HD 42 and 22 Binoculars
$75 Instant Rebate on ZEISS Terra ED 42 and 32 Binoculars
Optimized to be lightweight and compact, ZEISS SFL 40 binoculars offer Ultra-High-Definition (UHD) glass for true-to-life color reproduction and the highest levels of detail. And with SmartFocus the focus wheel provides fast and precise focusing — even with gloves on. The lightweight magnesium housing provides long-lasting durability.
ZEISS Conquest HD 42 and 32 binoculars have an ergonomic design plus a rugged, lightweight magnesium body that is waterproof and fog-proof. The large focusing wheel is easy to operate. Conquest HD binoculars offer 90% light transmission and superior optical clarity for impressive dusk to dark performance. Conquest HD binoculars are a good choice for hunters for whom reduced size and weight are key.
ZEISS Terra ED binoculars are reliable, easy to use, and quite affordable (starting at $374.99 on sale). These have a sleek, light, compact design that still offers excellent clarity and sharpness. The Terra ED binoculars are waterproof and nitrogen-filled, making them ready for any adventure.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. EuroOptic — Christensen Arms Precision Rifle, $1685.99 in cart
⏺ Excellent modern chassis rifle for PRS and NRL in 6mm Creedmoor
Here’s a rifle that’s ready-to-go for PRS/NRL competition out of the box. The Christensen Arms Modern Precision Rifle has an advanced aluminum chassis with folding buttstock. This black-finish version has a 24″ steel 1:8″-twist barrel chambered for 6mm Creedmoor — a good choice for competition. NOTE: This rifle has a listed $1899.99 MSRP. However, if you put the item in the shopping cart, the actual price is reduced to $1685.99, a $214 savings. That’s a good deal for a rifle of this quality, known to have excellent accuracy.
2. CMP eStore — .30-06 Springfield M2 Surplus Ammo SALE
⏺ Quality Lake City .30-06 Springfield ammo at great price
The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) just released some U.S. Military Surplus ammunition at very attractive prices. You can get 400 rounds of .30-06 Springfield M2 Ball ammo for just $392.00 plus $21 shipping. This 150gr FMJ non-corrosive ammo was produced at the Lake City Ammunition Plant in the mid 60s to early 70s. This is quality ammo with excellent brass that works great for reloads once the primer crimp is removed. NOTE — there is a limit of ONE 400-round can per customer per year.
3. EuroOptic — Leica 6X Zoom Scopes, 40-42% Off
⏺ Great deal on superb long-range hunting/varminting scopes
Here are two very high-quality Leica riflescopes at big discounts. These are SFP optics with 0.1 Milrad clicks. With an amazing 6X zoom ration, there is a huge field of view at the 2.5X base magnification. Then you have 15X on the other end for long shots. The 56mm objective version is now $919.99 on sale, a 42% savings off the $1599.99 price, while the version with a 50mm objective is $899.99, a 40% discount off the regular $1499.99 price. With these deals you can save over $600 — enough to buy a rifle.
4. J&G Sales — Norma Tac-22 .22 LR 500rds, $38.95
⏺ Very good .22 LR ammo at extremely low price — GREAT VALUE
If you love .22 LR rimfires and want quality ammo at an ultra-low price, grab some Norma TAC-22. At $38.95 for 500 rounds (i.e. $3.89 per 50-ct box), this is a true bargain, yet the TAC-22 is good enough for NRL22 matches as well as fun target shooting. We’ve shot this Norma ammo and been very satisfied. You’ll be hard-pressed to find better .22 LR ammo at anywhere near this price. Don’t delay ordering — at this price, we expect this TAC-22 ammo will sell out soon.
⏺ Super deal on Hornady .224 bullets for ARs and varmint rifles
Need .224 bullets for a varmint safari or service rifle training? Here’ss a great deal on good quality Hornady .224 caliber bullets. Get 250 55gr FMJ BT bullets for $24.99. For varmint work, get the 250 55gr Soft Point bullets for $27.49. If you want a slightly higher BC, try the 62gr FMJ at $26.99 for 250. These prices are great — $24.99 for 250 works out to just $0.10 (ten cents) per bullet. You can’t beat that!
6. Amazon — MOZETO Shooting Mat, $39.99
⏺ Nice 78″-long padded nylon mat stows conveniently
Whether in the field or at the range, having a comfortable mat to keep you and your gear dry and clean is critical. The Mozeto XL Shooting Mat is made from durable 1000D nylon with EPE padding fabric for long-lasting durability. There is an extra-thick padded section for elbows and knees. This big 78″ x 28.5″ mat has convenient straps and carry handle, plus storage pockets. To transport, just roll it up, fold it over and attach the quick release plastic snap buckles.
7. Palmetto SA — Leupold Laser Rangefinder, Binoculars, and Carry Harness Kit, $279.99
⏺ Excellet combo bundle with laser RF, binoculars, and handy carry harness
Here’s a great combo package for hunters. A hunter in the field looking for deer and other large game needs a rangefinder, binoculars, and a way to transport them securely. A great option is this Leupold Bundle Trio featuring the RX-1400I TBR/W Rangefinder, BX-1 Timberline 10X42 Binoculars, and Go Afield Harness. The combo price for all three items, just $279.99, is a great value.
8. Natchez — Frankford Quick-N-Easy Case Tumbler Kit, $79.99
⏺ We’ve used this Combo Kit for many seasons — grab this super deal now
Keeping your brass clean is important (and essential if you anneal). If you’re looking for a new, affordable setup to clean cartridge brass, consider the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler Master Kit. You get everything needed to dry-tumble your brass and remove the media. This is all available now for a very low $79.99. You could pay that much for a good vibratory tumbler alone, yet this combo kit includes tumbler, media separator, bucket, brass polish, and media. NOTE: This very same Tumbler Kit is currently $102.99 at MidwayUSA!
⏺ GREAT Deal on rimfire silhouette steel target 20-Pack
There are few things as fun as plinking with a .22 LR Rimfire rig at steel targets. It’s fun for kids and adults alike and right now you can grab a 20-ct pack of RIMFIRE animal targets in assorted sizes and shapes. They are 1/5 size and made from A36 steel plate. IMPORTANT: These small steel targets work great for rimfire shooting, but should NEVER be used with centerfire rifle cartridges.
10. EZ-AIM 12″x12″ Grid with Orange Bulls — $6.85 for 13-pack
⏺ High quality grid target at good price
We like this EZ-Aim Sight-in Grid Target for sighting-in, load development. and general practice. The full 12″x12″ target is covered with a precise black-lined grid on white background. There is a large center orange bullseye, plus four additional bulls, one in each corner. Right now this target is a bargain. You can get a 13-pack of targets for $6.85 — about 53 cents per target.
NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits The NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Indiana proved a popular and successful event. There were over 600 exhibitors showcasing a huge variety of firearms, optics, hunting gear, and other products.
NRA member attendance was excellent, with large crowds in the Exhibit Halls, and long lines to attend the major speaking events, which included an address by former President Donald Trump at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum.
Forum members who attended said the “vibe” at the event was very positive, with strong attendance. That’s a good sign for the future. The 2024 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits will be held in Dallas, Texas. That should prove a very popular venue.
There were many new guns and optics on display. The GunsAmerica Digest team has reports on multiple new (or recently introduced) products. You can see a dozen videos from the 2023 NRA Show on the GunsAmerica YouTube Channel. GunsAmerica Digest Editor True Pearce was impressed with a new semi-auto rifle from IWI, which has some real advantages over AR-platform rifles. The new IWI Carmel Rifle has an adaptable chassis, and can switch between normal and suppressor modes.
“This new semiautomatic rifle [from IWI] features a short-stroke gas piston system and a locking, rotating bolt system for maximum safety…. The Carmel rifle is fully ambidextrous, making it easily customizable with MLOK rails at the 3, 6, and 9 positions for compatibility with various accessories. It also has a 2-position gas regulator, allowing the user to switch between regular and suppressor mode. The rifle’s cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined, free-floating barrel enhances accuracy and prolongs the life cycle of the weapon.” — GunsAmerica Digest, by S.H. Blannelberry.
GunsAmerica Digest Editor True Pearce also visited the CZ booth to check out the brand new Scorpion 3+, which is available in three versions. Micro with 4.2″; Pistol with 7.8″ barrel, and Carbine with 16.3″ barrel.
New Pistols and Colt Rifle on Display at NRA Show
The NRA’s American Rifleman magazine has also featured five new guns on display at the NRA Exhibit Hall: Colt CBX TacHunter rifle; FN America Reflex compact pistol; EAA Girsan MC 14T .380 ACP pistol; Henry Big Boy revolver; and Kimber KDS9 Double-Stack pistol.
Here is the new Colt CBX TacHunter rifle, the first rifle offering from Colt in many years. Price at $999 MSRP, the Colt CBX has some notable features:
“A flat-bottom receiver is designed to reduce flexing, which helps to aid precision shooting. The gun’s action features a short, 60-degree bolt throw for fast follow-up shots while also providing clearance for mounted optics. Users will also find an ambidextrous magazine-release latch, three sling-swivel studs, angled pistol-grip stock and textured gripping surfaces. The TacHunter is available in .308 Win.”– American Rifleman
Silencer Central Takes ATF eForm Applications at NRA Show The Silencer Central booth was swamped, and one staff member reported they expect to process the paperwork for anywhere from 500 to 700 suppressors. Photo by P. Erhardt.
Paul Erhardt of the Outdoor Wire Digital Network* was impressed by the turn-out of members at the NRA Meetings: “What many people don’t realize about the NRA Show is that it is actually not just a consumer expo but a real selling show. Obviously not for firearms or ammunition, but just about everything else that isn’t regulated or restricted is being sold, and most often at show special pricing. Several exhibitors that had retail operations in their booths were slammed with customers during the opening hours of the show.
But perhaps nothing compared to the frenzy at the Silencer Central booth where they were helping customers prepare and submit their ATF eForms for suppressor purchases. Customers were backed up into the booth as they waited their turn at the two banks of laptops and digital fingerprint scanners used to process paperwork which is now taking on average 270 days for the ATF to process.”
CLICK HERE for Full Shooting Wire NRA Show Report with 10 Show Photos and more products.
* The Shooting Wire is a free email newsletter that is published every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The Shooting Wire is part of the Outdoor Wire Digital Network which is comprised of 10 individual wires, as well as a Spanish language edition of The Outdoor Wire.
To mark its 125th anniversary, German gun-maker Mauser produced a limited-edition, 25-count series of the original Mauser 98 bolt-action rifle. These Anniversary rifles are stunning to say the least. According to RifleShooter Magazine: “Built by Mauser’s master gunsmiths in the style of classic safari rifles from times past, the Mauser 98 125th Anniversary Rifles are a milestone of modern firearms technology. Only 25 of these masterpieces are available worldwide and each in the series is numbered.”
Free Range American explains: “[Mauser released] a small batch of Mauser 98 rifles to commemorate the model’s 125th anniversary. The manufacturer’s master gunsmiths built 25 rifles in the style of Mauser’s famous safari guns. Each uses wood-grade-8 walnut plus steel components decorated with engraving and gold inlay. They’re gorgeous rifles, but before you get too excited, you should know the MSRP for one of these exquisite rifles is an equally stunning $35,000.”
Mauser 98 125th Anniversary Specifications:
Price: $35,000
Stock: Wood-grade-8 walnut
Steel: Color case-hardened with engraving and gold inlay
Chamberings: .30-06 Springfield, 8×57 IS, .375 H&H, .416 Rigby
Special 125th Anniversary Model Features:
— Bolt handle ball with color case-hardening
— Fish scale checkering and gold inlay
— Color case-hardening with English scroll
— Engraved Original Mauser logo, inlaid in gold
— Color case-hardened trigger guard with 1 of 25 serial number
— Red recoil pad
The Number 1 in the series was offered for sale at the Safari Club International convention in February, 2023. Jason Evans, CEO, Blaser Group explained: “The Mauser 98 action is regarded as the forefather of all modern bolt-action rifles. Built in the millions, copied by the thousands, but never matched… We [had] the first 125th-anniversary rifle, marked #1 in the series, for sale at the SCI Convention in Nashville, and it is truly a work of art.” As quoted in American Hunter website.
Stunning Color Case-hardening with Gold Damascus Highlights
On these handsome 125th Anniversary Mauser 98s, the action, bolt handle ball, trigger guard, pistol grip cap, and magazine base are beautifully color case-hardened. The metal is also highlighted with English ornaments and gold damascening. [Editor: “Damascening is a decorative metalworking technique in which a soft metal, often gold or silver, is mechanically inlaid into a harder metal like iron or steel without heat or solder.” Damsascening is not just used for gunsmithing, but it also employed for a variety of decorative fine art applications. See: MetMuseum.org article.]
These unique rifles are available in both standard and magnum action versions. Details of the firearms and the caliber/chambering options are listed in the table below. Click to ZOOM TABLE.
Registration Is Now OPEN for the 2023 NRA F-Class National Championships
The 2023 F-Class National Championships commence Sunday, October 29, 2023 at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility (BASF) in Phoenix. For 2023, the Nationals combine both Mid-Range and Long-Range competitions in one extended mega-match. The Mid-Range U.S. F-Class Nationals start on Sunday, October 29, 2023 and run through Wednesday, November 1, 2023. All shooting will be at 600-yard targets.
The Long Range U.S. F-Class National Championships then run Thursday, November 2, 2023 through Sunday, November 5, 2023. All Long Range matches are at 1000 yards. The competitions will have two different divisions: F-Open and F-TR (Target Rifle). Registration LINKs for both Mid-Range and Long-Range Championships are below. An official program for the event will be coming soon.
2023 U.S. NRA Long Range F-Class Nationals
Thursday, November 2 through Sunday, November 5
Located on 1,650 acres in north Phoenix, Ben Avery is one of the nation’s largest publicly-operated shooting facilities. A City of Phoenix “Point of Pride,” the facility has received a five-star rating from the National Association of Shooting Ranges. A camping area is available for competitors. Contact Ben Avery Shooting Range Camping to reserve a camping spot.
Firing line at 2015 F-Class Nationals at Ben Avery Shooting Facility.
You’ll see some serious hardware on the firing line at Ben Avery. Here’s a modern F-Open rig with a handsome maple stock. The gun, belonging to David Mann of Texas, shoots as good as it looks.
RULES: Current NRA F-Class Rules shall apply. TARGETS: MR-1FC at 600 yards and LRFC at 1000 yards. TARGET SERVICE: Competitors will pull their own targets. SCORING: Competitors will score. Any competitor failing to perform his scoring duties may be disqualified. CLASSIFICATION: NRA F-Class Classifications will be used. Those competitors unclassified or without proof of a lower classification, will be required to compete in the Master class. Please indicate classification on the registration and entry form. EMPTY CHAMBER INDICATOR (ECI): Approved NRA empty chamber indicators are required to be used at all times except during the preparation period time and firing.
If you need a good hunting rifle, consider a Tikka. The latest generation Tikka T3x rifles are very popular with hunters around the globe — for good reason. These rifles offer smooth-running actions, easy sub-MOA accuracy with good ammo, crisp triggers, and reliable detachable box magazines. The Tupperware stocks aren’t super-rigid, but they are comfortable and easy to handle. The Tikka T3 and T3X models are smart choices for hunters, offering good performance for the price (starting at $749.00 for the T3X Lite version). The T3x series is offered in a wide selection of chamberings, from .204 Ruger up to the large magnums.
Testing the T3x Series on the Range — Fun in Finland
This video was produced at a range in Finland. Tikka product manager Taneli Pokkinen shoots three Tikka rifles — the first two prone, off bipod, and the third standing (as a hunter might shoot). You can see the recoil of various chamberings, plus the accuracy at 100m, which is pretty impressive. Rifles tested are: 1) Tikka T3x Varmint Hunter; 2) Tikka T3x Super Varmint (with suppressor); 3) Tikka T3x Roughtech Ember. NOTE: At 4:30 there is a 5-shot group from the Super Varmint as shot by a gunsmith. All shots are touching — very impressive!
These two short videos explain two key features of modern Tikka rifles — the smooth running bolt and the precise, crisp, and relatively light trigger. We recommend you check out both of these tech videos if you’ve never handled a Tikka rifle before. Tikkas really do have very good factory triggers, with bolt smoothness that rivals some custom actions.
Tikka Rifles — Five Recent Models Reviewed
If you are considering a Tikka for PRS/NRL, check the first segment of this video covering the Tikka T3x TAC A1. In order, here are the five (5) Tikka rifle reviewed, with video start times (if you want to skip around): 1. Tikka T3x Super Varmint (00:40, video only); 2. Tikka T3x TAC A1 (01:13); 3. Tikka T3x Super Varmint (02:34); 4. Tikka T3x Lite Roughtech Ember (05:12); 5. Tikka T3x Varmint Hunter (wood) (07:31). Note: The review sections are done by a knowledgeable Tikka product manager Taneli Pokkinen. CLICK HERE for 40+ Tikka factory videos.
Tikka T3X — Hickok45 Shows Function and Shoots at Steel Plates
Popular YouTube gun reviewer Hickok45 reviews the Tikka T3x Tactical Compact Rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor. There are good explanations of the operation of the action and magazine. In addition Hickok45 shoots the rifle offhand (05:10 and 13:44 time-marks), evaluating the ergonomics of the stock and the trigger feel. Hickok45 now has 7.27 million subscribers to his YouTube Channel.
Tikka T3x Compact Lite Roughtech Ember
The Tikka Compact Lite Roughtech Ember has a handsome brown polymer stock with subtle camo. This nicely-finished 6.8-pound $1299.00 rifle comes with a stainless fluted barrel fitted with factory muzzle brake. The stock has interchangeable pistol grips for various shooting positions. The fore-grip has attachment points, allowing forearm width to be increased. In this video, at the 8:40 time-mark, the trigger is adjusted to crisp 2.5 pounds, as verified with a trigger gauge. That is excellent for a factory trigger.
Why the TIKKa T3x Is Great for Hunting
With 650,000+ subscribers, the Backfire Channel is one of the most popular gun channels on YouTube. You can trust Backfire reviewers because they pay their own money for all the products they review. This video reviews current generation Tikka rifles. Backfire had high praise for Tikka T3x rifles: “The Tikka T3x SL is an incredibly lightweight mountain rifle that should be in every hunter’s safe. We like it for its lightweight build, stainless steel barrel, superb trigger, and surprisingly accurate shooting. Overall, this is the hunting rifle we recommend more frequently than any other.”
TIKKA T3x TAC A1
Along with the hunting rifle models, Tikka also produces quality, metal chassis tactical-style rifles. The Tikka T3x TAC A1 has earned considerable praise and is PRS/NRL competition-ready right out of the box. The T3x TAC A1 is offered in multiple calibers/chamberings, barrel lengths, and chassis colors. The impressive T3x TAC A1 retails for $2199.00 – $2299.00 at EuroOptic.com.
BONUS: TIKKA T3x vs. Ruger American
This comparison video compares the Tikka T3x with the Ruger American rifle. The reviewers explain the key differences and the pros and cons of each type. The video examines the receivers, barrels, triggers, and stocks of the Tikka and the Ruger. What’s the bottom line? Well the Ruger has a price advantage, but the Tikka T3x has a better trigger, nicer action, better magazines, and probably better 5-shot accuracy.
Accurate shooting begins and ends with the human eye. Your career as a marksman could be cut short if you don’t use good eye protection every time you go to the range and/or handle a firearm.
