#10MinuteTalk

If you know Ryan Muckenhirn, you know he fancies Tikka rifles and their actions. But why? What makes them so great? Mark Boardman and Ryan run the bolt on this topic, covering the glass-smooth, economical, high-performing actions found on Tikka rifles and a fair bit more.
00:00 - Intro
00:59 - Ryan's Tikka History
2:33 - Bolt and Manufacturing
4:24 - Trigger
5:47 - Mounting Options
6:50 - Broaching
8:26 - Bolt (cont.)
10:24 - The Safety
12:48 - Action and Barrel
17:43 - The Magazine
18:55 - Single Action Length
21:22 - Closing Thoughts
As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on any one of our social media platforms and using #VortexNationPodcast.
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[@scottfassbender3455]

The Tikka T3 was the first rifle I ever purchased with my own money back in 2003. I remember picking one up in the gun store. The gentleman behind the counter stated “that thing is smoother than the inside of a school teacher’s thighs”. He was 164% correct. I love that rifle still and use it frequently.

[@yeulakho6574]

😂😂🤣

[@dougi1967]

Chubby engaged

[@ridemcowboy1935]

@@dougi1967 "If you ain't First, you're Last!"

[@shauno7582]

Hahahaha.. Now that’s a sales pitch! My local gun store said also they never have had a customer bring a tikka back and say there’s a problem.

[@rkwjunior2298]

A male teacher?...lol

[@savage22bolt32]

Seems like a really intelligent conversation between two guys. A huge thanks for not ruining it with crappy background music while you're talking!

[@marksmith4627]

I'll second that about the crappy background music! I wish the outdoor hunting and fishing shows would follow that as well.

[@Fuzzybeanerizer]

Well, the talk about broaching did not really convey much information about broaching.

[@alanmeyers3957]

I don’t know about intelligent, that may be a stretch.

[@silvermediastudio]

What makes it so smooth? "They just know how to put guns together." I hope you stay in school if you think this is "intelligent."

[@savage22bolt32]

@@silvermediastudio the glass bedding...smooth as glass...

[@emmanuelcalderon1982]

Based on Ryan's past comments about Tikka, I now own a Tikka T3X in .243 Winchester. I slapped a Viper HS 2.5-10x44 on it and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. I'm going on my first hunt next week so thanks guys for the podcast, it's been very helpful! 👍

[@VortexNation]

So awesome! Love to hear it my friend! Keep us posted on your hunt!

[@AdamCraigOutdoors]

How do you like that setup? I'm thinking of something the same for deer/coyote for myself and son.

[@emmanuelcalderon1982]

@@AdamCraigOutdoors love it so far. I've got a couple hundred rounds through it. I'm limited to bench shooting because of the ranges in my area so 243 has been perfect. It doesn't beat me up too bad with the light weight stock. The bolt is super smooth like everyone says. Almost impossible to bind. As for accuracy I've managed to get groups just under an inch at 100 depending on ammo, but I'm gonna start reloading to get the most out of my rifle. As for the scope it's been great. Very clear and I've been able to shoot for half a day on and off without noticing fatigue in my eyes like I have with cheaper scopes. I'm very happy with my setup and don't see myself changing out anything anytime soon.

[@barryboyd7973]

My 6.5 Creedmoor T3x TACT A1 is crazy accurate. When I shoot 3 shot groups, I get sub 0.4moa groups most of the time. I really don’t enjoy shooting holes in paper, so usually I’m shooting steel out to 800 metres and my job is to read the wind right and shoot. If I do my part, the Tikka does the rest and I hit exactly where I want. Love that 2 stage trigger, it is so easy to read. You just know when it’s going to break. There’s nothing more enjoyable than a crazy accurate rifle.

[@rascalmatt6713]

I've hit a soda can at 1,004 yards in 3 shots with mine shooting factory ammo. Was using an educated guess on the first shot.

[@ridemcowboy1935]

As good as the TAC-A1 2-stage factory trigger is, and it's really good, the Mcarbo trigger spring kit for $20 makes it even better! Best $20 you'll spend for a factory trigger upgrade. Same goes for the standard T3x rifles.

[@demolitiondan1188]

I love mine too!! My .308 arctic is awesome with open sights also. 😉👍🏻👍🏻

[@mikecross2435]

Please beg Tikka to thread all their barrels.

[@adamturnbull6157]

Yes!

[@Struttinhoyt88]

That’s the only thing holding me back from buying another one.

[@MichaelClaytonCo]

Same here

[@eddyj7557]

Plenty of tikkas are threaded these days

[@Struttinhoyt88]

@@eddyj7557 sure are but most of them are made specifically for certain companies, and have a bunch of stuff on them that I don’t want, and they cost $1200+. I just want a Superlite or a standard T3X with a threaded barrel. That’s not asking for much.

[@ukwan]

Tikka, Sako, CZ, Anschutz, Steyr, Blaser, Sauer.. most European brands of rifle are making some seriously impressive fire arms.

[@jmgates09]

BERGARA from Spain is too

[@donater9254]

You forgot Benelli... well, you just mentioned the best firearm companies in the world.

[@MrFlextor]

I went away from Steyr to Tikka 10 years ago because of the price for the guns initially but also regarding the hilarious price for prts like magazines f.eg. My first was a SSG69 in .308, this had well known issues with the crumbling type of plastic they made the magazines of, they are def. not cheap to replace. The precision was very good but I decided to change to the ProHunter with the new and "better" action. This was a very short relationship, the whole concept was not pleasant for me, the precision was not on par to the SSG. Since then I own a T3Sporter in .308 , 600mm barrel - first gen and I am happy about it, same accuracy as the SSG and a way better haptical feeling when operating with it. Initially I was on the go for a Sako TRG, but the price was shocking compared to the very small benefits to the Sporter, so no second of regret.

[@the_LuckyPenny]

⁠​⁠@@jmgates09Bergara from Euskadi, no Spain! 😉

[@thomasfrontcakas5999]

My Winchester model 70 super grade in 300wm is much smoother. Hard to imagine that being the case but it's the truth

[@ontheside5942]

Had some Bass Pro points, so I went to the store one day and said, show me all the rifles in 17 HMR. I went through the Savage models, and another brand, but then the salesman said this was the one he was saving for last, and he unboxed the Tikka T1X. Just holding it was amazing, I could just feel the quality. The smooth action and the fit and finish was unlike any rifle in my collection. Obviously it went home with me.

[@bobbygetsbanned6049]

Tikka stocks feel cheesy as shit to me, never been a fan, same with the plastic shroud.

[@kellygibson4653]

@@bobbygetsbanned6049 IMO all synthetics feel the same. My focus is grip and shooting position comfort and repeatability. If I want classic I'll buy wood. If I want a 1k plus tack driver I'll go custom. I now buy for performance and not looks.

[@jkarra2334]

Sako-Tikka made it's first rifle in 1983, they were still made in tikkakoski,hence name "tikka" Tikkakoski is roughly translated "woodpecker rapids" tikka=woodpecker koski=rapid Still carrying my 1969 long action Tikka 6.5x55, one of the most versatile rifle ,from birds to deer. Greetings from Finland.

[@RagingOatmeal]

Just bought myself a t3x in 6.5se. You handload for yours?

[@JariLaaksonen-kl3he]

I have T3X 6,5x55 se, T3X CTR 308 win and T1X 0,17 hmr. Sako S20 300 win mag . Handloading with Vihtavuori powders.

[@trevormillard1339]

Hi from Australia where Sako and Tikka were used extensively in the 60s, 70s and 80s. My Sako L461 222 was made in 1961

[@antonhuman8446]

I worked in Rhodesia during 1973, and had one in 30-06 before that...

[@blackpowder4016]

Owned by Beretta.

[@wideopenmx850]

In a backcountry hunting scenario where you are traveling through dense forest and the rifle is potentially getting bumped around I think it’s good that the action is locked up when the safety is on.

[@michaelc3416]

Yes, but his point is that a three position safety is better. My Steyr has a three position safety which, (1) locks the trigger and action for bumping around in the woods, (2) locks the trigger but frees the bolt/action which allows you to clear the rifle while it's still on safe, (3), unlocked and fire. The two position of the Tikka is either safe or not. So, in order to clear the rifle you have to put the rifle in an "unsafe" fire mode in order to open the action and clear the rifle. Perfectly doable with safe gun handling practice of course, but the three position does offer an added degree of safety. I have and feel comfortable with both, but I do get his point. The three position is better overall, IMO.

[@philippevitoux5276]

It is more expensive too.

[@davidcampbell9857]

The Tikka arctic has the three position.

[@HDSME]

He is talking like mauser k 98 perfect safety love a locked bolt ! On safe

[@user-nf3zh8hx6m]

The safety on the Tikka catches easily on brush. My buddy and I don't chamber a round when our guns are on our packs. We were walking through dense brush and he noticed his bolt was open, which means at some point the safety was bumped off. Without thinking, he leaned forward and slammed the bolt closed (chambering a round). The next thing I know the brush next to my head explodes. He blew out his ear drum and had to have surgery. And beyond that he was extremely shaken at how close he came to ending me. On the lighter side, I thought we were taking fire from someone else so I dropped to the ground and started looking for the threat.

[@BrianCx]

I picked up a Tikka T3x .270 in Wideland camo. Ever since I ran the action while shopping in the store, I decided "every bolt action I get will be a Tikka". For the price and what you get starting out, nothing else compares, they're in a class of their own.

[@abbeybremner4162]

He had clearly never run a shaking hand up Mrs Arbuckles celulite thighs

[@Beebop-ow9ge]

I bought the exact same rifle but 30-06 and have the same opinion aswell, have since bought a tikka 22-250 aswell

[@adamparker9765]

The Sauer does . Trigger is just as good , stocks dont sound plastic hollow. Bolt has 3 locking lugs instead of two and they are no dearer in price than the Tikka. But I have two Tikkas and are extremely happy with them.

[@carlnewby5963]

I was in the market for a new big game rifle a few years ago and looked at all different brands with no biases. Was really leaning towards browning xbolt or Christensen but the fella at SW talked me into a tika t3x super light in 3006. I knew nothing about them but man am I ever glad I listened to that salesman! Hands down the best rifle I’ve ever owned and everything I pull the trigger on dies. I got a great deal on it and only paid 650 for it too.

[@mikemcshea5919]

That's an amazing deal especially for 30-06. The last couple of times I went to SW they didn't even have any 30-06 caliber rifles in stock.

[@kellygibson4653]

Same here for my 270 Win T3 lite Stainless with fluted barrel and camo stock. 675 at Cabela's HQ store in Michigan. also bought my son one as well.

[@juice6459]

I have a Tikka T3 in 7mm Mag. Was so impressed all those so many years ago I went all out on the reloading paraphernalia for it. Still extraordinary accurate, it was more than worth the Nikon scope (cost more than gun) I installed on it.

[@toxico1152]

Speaking about the bolt, in a coyote hunt, I shot one at 20 yards that snuck up on me. Super exciting, lots of emotion from the surprise and proximity. By the time the echo of the shot fell away I had worked that bolt without even thinking. It was so smooth it just happened automatically. Absolutely love this action

[@nielrossouw7831]

Great show as always, thank you. My go to hunting rifle is my Sako in 30-06. It has brought home meat for my family for more than 20years and it has never let me down. It is a stunning rifle and the bolt really is miles beyond my Remington's and other manufacturers' actions. My next rifle will be a Tikka, most probably in 7mmPRC.

[@eriksforestryvision8751]

This is why I love learning about things, such as gun on this podcast. I will be keeping an eye out for one to check out! Thanks y'all

[@Rstpete1]

I love my Tikka and Sako's. In a whole different class and for different reasons I also love Howa rifles. Love to hear your thoughts on those.

[@edwardabrams4972]

Of my hundreds of guns owned over the last 60+ years Tikka and Sako’s are my favorite hunting rifles! Not that I don’t like the mausers and the many other control feed rifles I own as well as the Weatherbys and the non controlled rifles!

[@Gideom007]

The Howa 1500 action is superior to the Tikka T3 It has an integral recoil lug, multiple action sizes, larger extractor, one piece bolt, 3 position safety etc.

[@ohmbre300]

Peter, I am right there with you

[@Greyzonecompliant]

Sako and tikkas are great. Howas are a bit better if you have to explain the cost to the wife. But for rimfire i would ad the cz 457 to the mix.

[@Greyzonecompliant]

​@@Gideom007 but the plastic factory stock is not great on tikka or Howa. Grs or mdt makes them sooo much nicer. Treat yo self 👍

[@Deerslayer1912]

Bought a Tikka 300 win mag a few years ago. Swapped the barrel to a C6 300wsm prefit, Mesa precision altitude stock, and a Mountain Tactical long action mag. Now I can run 212 eldx at 3.1” COAL. Feeds like butter too

[@Dmounts]

For the algorithm 🙌

[@VortexNation]

My man 🤜 🤛

[@robertstack3678]

I bought my first and only Tikka in 2000, blued walnut 3006 short carbine T3, absolutely beautiful stock. Put a Swarovski 3x10.5x42 hunter I believe, it's an odd size. I'm shooting federal premium 180 core lock, sighted in at 200, This gun is a tac driver. I'm dying of terminal cancer and I passed this gun on to my oldest brother in Michigan. He is and always will be my biggest fan, my idle. He grew up shooting bows only all his life, shooting professionally for Darten. I've always wanted to be like him, lots of respect and admiration for my brother, we are a lot alike. Lots of stories about that gun, all fun and great results.

[@ClaytonHinds]

My first rifle was a Tikka T3x Lite in .243. Less than 1/2 MOA out of the box with a VORTEX Iron Peak. For the price it's first class. Tikka/Sako has moved to a bolt disengagement system on the two position safety, so maybe it will be added to the T3x at some stage. Great review.

[@jtr82369]

Love the Tikka's, insanely lightweight, smooth action and I really like the proprietary rail forged into the action, no need to add a weak point or potential error point into the scope mounting.

[@Rajdhillon0610]

First 4 minutes details are the reasons why I bought Tikka T3X … Tikka action is so fuckin smooth and it goes at its place where it is supposed to be just like nothing happened.

[@tommyrq180]

Finns have always been rifle experts. It starts with hunting. But it ends with war. If you want to understand the Finnish concept of “sisu” (hard to translate but means toughness in the face of overwhelming odds) read about the 1939 Winter War against Stalin’s Red Army. A massive invasion and ensuing massive courage by the Finnish defenders, much of which involved them implementing their knowledge of rifles-mainly adapting Russian rifles-to the brutal Finnish winter. It’s not just that the Finnish Army’s riflemen knew what they were doing, but they were so underfunded that they mainly had to adapt and use captured Soviet rifles in the conflict. Which they did with brutal efficiency. It’s a fantastic case study in both a nation’s failure to properly prepare for war and the way real (as in day-to-day cultural) woodsman/infantry expertise, leadership and bravery can fill the gap. It will give you a whole new sense for why Sako and Tikka are special. It’s called “sisu” and Finns are born with it. 🇫🇮

[@mot0rhe4d40]

My T3x Hunter still impresses me with it's smoothness. When I play back my last two bucks taken with it. The shots are taken, and no memory of cycling the next round stands out. To mean, it was so effortless as to not stand out. Until thinking about it after the fact. The Finn's know how to make a top shelf bolt action.

[@henny113]

I love my Tikkas! Only issue I had with one of them was the magazine not feeding. I rotated the magazine spring 180 degrees and it solved the problem 👍🏻

[@rickherbert3496]

Great information. I purchased a Tikka T3x Cabela's special in 6.5 Creedmoor and I love it. It is 1/2 in MOA at 100 yards. I put a Vortex Razor Hunter light scope on it and it has been fantastic. This year I shot an Elk at 230 yards and dropped it with one shot. I hit it low in the lungs and I don't think it knew it was even hit. I stood there for a few seconds and fell over. I hit it right where I was aiming. My grandson got one 15 minutes before I shot mine. We were sitting with each other and he shot his with a 270 and shot it 3 times and it went down. I would certainly recommend Tikka. Very good podcast I enjoyed it. Thanks

[@jasonrad9332]

My first bolt action is/was a Tikka T3x Tact A1 chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor. I absolutely love it.

[@edwardabrams4972]

Love my Sako’s and Tikka’s! Being a collector I have some from the 60’s and 70’s that are just a joy to shoot and hunt with! They are one of the few guns that shoots almost all my factory loads to MOA! Reloading and you get then down to about 1/2” inch who could ask for any more in a non custom rifles! Most of my customs shoot that good but at more then twice or 3 times the price!

[@trixsin.0558]

Hello, are these the guns that are considered as long rifles? If yes, can you please suggest some sources or books for getting into it. And also sources for starting with the custom rifles you are talking about. Thank you.

[@pstewart5443]

Ive got a Tikka T1X, and I switched it over to the MDT chassis. That rifle hasnt been cleaned in over a year, over 1k rounds through it, runs like the first round every time. Shoots very well, and I know its not even broke in yet.

[@brianmiljevich826]

Love my Tikkas. Being 1/4 Finnish myself, the fact that they are made in Finland was what initially got me interested.

[@jonfarrar9666]

Couple years ago I took my 13 year old grandson to the gun shop and told him to find himself a deer rifle. He looked at several rifles then picked up a tikka t3x lite in 7mm-08 and had to have it. It's so good I got myself the same rifle in stainless synthetic. Customized it some and soon to cut the barrel down and thread it for a suppressor. After that I'll get the super varmint rifle in 270 win. I love these rifles.

[@canuckmagnum5841]

Had me at Bolt action automatic, haha, first Tikka I tried, fell in love with how smooth the action was. Sako/Tikka... the Fins have it right.

[@seanpatterson5948]

As a proud owner of a t3x I agree that it's an amazing rifle. The action is smooth as silk, crisp trigger, and accurate. The best money I've ever spent and I recommend it to everyone.

[@TheMrkylester101]

I put a light weight trigger spring in mine, no point in replacing the whole trigger mechanism

[@karlsailor]

Agree with all you said. I have three. Two customs (barrel and chassis) and one that still has a factory barrel. All are awesome, except trying to take off a factory barrel. Man those are glued in/torqued on!

[@woodman8261]

I bought a Tikka M695 in 1995 or 1996,the action is still like butter. Tack driver out of the box,and like you said they have a very robust bolt.

[@tonywise4449]

The Tikka is without a doubt a great rifle. Have a 300 wsm and its A1; however , action wise , I have to consider the pre 64 model 70 winchester and the mauser are exceptional . I would say the choice between the three is very close and probably depends on the individual s choice.

[@jasyski01930]

Another great 10 minutes, good job boys.

[@VortexNation]

🤜 🤛

[@TTT-du6oj]

@@VortexNation I have 3 tikka’s, all three meet the Moa 3 shot guarantee with factory ammo,two beat that handily and are not very picky about ammo. What are you guy’s thoughts on their slotted receiver recoil lug system,it clearly works on my guns ?Great talk guys !

[@Antjohns89]

Tikkas are seriously underrated and yes they have the best smoothest action hands down Id say my Browning X-bolt white gold medallion is a close second

[@ssimossimo576]

Tikkas are UNDERrated?? 😂

[@gregnelson5242]

Great Talk guys! I too love the Tikkas’… I have 5 of them. Got to say, I recommend using the integral rail, just don’t have any issues with loosing zero.

[@Hammsolo77]

I love my Tikkas. I love how customizable they are also. Mountain Tactical makes an amazing ring/base system called the Raptor. It looks as one with the rifle. I’ve added bottom metal, aluminum clips and more to mine. They shoot amazing.

[@nvlaser9084]

The secret to the trigger is the YoDave or similar spring. You replace the trigger spring with a $5 lighter spring designed for this trigger pack, and it drops the pull down to like 6 oz. Its amazing in the tikka 2 stage match triggers but works fine in any T3 or T3x. It turns a very good trigger into something that rivals TT/Bix n Andy.

[@Mr1OM]

I did the spring change and then I got an Bix und Andy, no way the tuned factory (polished and spring change) can be compared with a Bix

[@karlsailor]

Yes. Springs on three of mine!

[@ridemcowboy1935]

Check out the Mcarbo trigger spring kit for the Tikka T models. Probably the best $20 factory trigger upgrade with shipping included, that rivals the aftermarket TT triggers. Is it a Trigger Tech? Well no, it's not, but then again you didn't spend $290+ either! ;->

[@paullanglois5562]

The Tikka Tac A1 has what Ryan mentioned. It has an additional button near the safety, to engage and allow the bolt to be rotated and moved rearward to remove a case.

[@travissmith-wz5nc]

Help on a after market one?

[@paullanglois5562]

@@travissmith-wz5nc youd have to have a tikka tac a1 barreled action

[@jimscallen6452]

Great video. Very informative.

[@cohesive3482]

The T3X action is incredible. Way smoother than even my CTR which is VERY good.

[@robertqueberg4612]

The smooth bolt travel that you are discussing likely comes from three major things, the proper heat treatment process and resultant hardness, the proper clearance that allows axial movement without radial play, and possibly the most important surface finish of the two mating surfaces.

[@SmokeybeardAB]

Just picked up a custom Tikka 3X .280ai. Buttery smooth action and can't wait to drop some animals with it. Also bought the caliber after hearing Ryan's 10 minute talk on the 280 ackley

[@mikekropidlowski1237]

Ryan is the best salesman without trying to sell a thing.

[@SmokeybeardAB]

@@mikekropidlowski1237 haha so true. He is so smooth in his delivery

[@VortexNation]

Ryan is full of wisdom and advice. A gentleman and a scholar.

[@SmokeybeardAB]

@@VortexNation I'll cheers to that🍻

[@nicholasgad2781]

Do you still have the plastic stock, or did you upgrade it? Just wondering, because I want to go 280AI but wonder whether I have to budget for a new stock.

[@Tristy1987]

Tikka are great. Very popular in the Uk. But I prefer the 595 action or a Sako 75 & getting both re barrelled with a custom match barrel to the chambering of choice!

[@johnbodman4504]

I have had several custom made rifles made for long range benchrest competitians, however the most accurate was a Tikka, with a benchrest stock added. It was a Tikka action and barrel and a good thumhole stock, that would out shoot anything else. I lost some velocity because the barrel was only 24 inches, but it made up for that with accuracy.

[@robertwilson22]

"Fully bolt action automatic!" Love me some tikka. Have 2x in 6.5 creedmoor (CTR and a TAC A1) and likely getting a 3rd in 6.5 PRC. When they get around to making a 7mm PRC i'll prob grab one of those too. They fit VERY nicely into my MDT chassis. Great vid!! Keep them coming.

[@VortexNation]

Appreciate you tuning in! More to come!

[@shauno7582]

Also I cannot believe Guru Ryan forgot about the Tikka TacA1 safety feature.. there’s a button you can press near the safety switch which will lock the trigger and can still work the bolt to unload!

[@303parkerhale]

As you said .5 groups right out of the box. On my t3 forest hunter 300wsm I replaced bolt stop bottom metal and magazine with mountain tactical. Allowing me to get longer oal. Found its sweet spot getting closer to the lands. Now it shoots one hole groups as long as I do my part. Amazing rifles!

[@stephenfitch6507]

my t3x superlite was .5 MOA out of the box with some basic hand loads as well

[@Muschka01]

Did the exact same thing with my 2008 t3 270 WSM and have just put a oryx chassis on it. Pushing the 140,150 & 170 Bergers way out. Have to use a ASIC 300 wm mag because of the length. Still the orginal hunting barrel and getting .5" groups. Love it for the price.

[@jmgates09]

@randyross4494 have you tried any 190 or 200gr loads

[@303parkerhale]

@Jamie Gates I have yes. I've had good success also with 200gn eldx. And sierra 190 hpbt. I'd have to look at load data. But both loads were in 3/4" groups. Oal was definitely over sammi. But I'm running mountain tactical bottom metal/magazine/bolt stop etc... to achieve it.

[@jmgates09]

@randyross I'm glad to hear it shoots the 200greldx good I bought a t3x ss lite in 300wsm and was able to get a box of the eldx and 2 box of Terminal Ascent 200gr and was praying they shot OK with the 1 in 11 twist

[@pens87668]

At the beginning of last year, I bought a t3x lite in .308, and I absolutely love the gun. I didn’t buy the stainless steel barrel because to me, a blued barrel does the job just fine. This past season I shot my furthest deer ever at 170 yards. She dropped immediately. On mine I run a Viper HS 2.5-10x44 with Leupold STD rings, and for ammo, I shoot 168 grain Barnes TTSX. I get 1/2” groups at 100 yards. This gun compliments my 1973 Marlin 366 in .30-30 and my Savage 220 quite well for rifle selection with deer hunting.

[@kingwiththeax6880]

I was gifted a Tikka as a Christmas bonus in 2005. It’s was a T3 lite .270. I love that rifle. It is as smooth as they say. Example: I was stalking slowly through a thin woodlot on a misty morning. When I cleared the brush into a grassy field, I saw a single doe standing broadside, about 80 yards away. Because of the high grass, only the backline was visible, so I aimed at the top of the shoulder and fired. That doe disappeared, while 8 other does, that were bedded in the tall grass, stood up and ran. I ran the action, caught the ejected case in the air, and turned in the direction the deer ran. A lone doe stopped to look back, about 120 yards away, and I shot her in the top of the spine, also. Within the space of about 10 seconds I had 2 does on the ground, about 200 yards apart, with 2 offhand shots.

[@garyh1449]

I chose the Sauer over the Tikka because of the 3 position safety, metal trigger guard, top loading ability,and the flush mount double stack mag. The other reason was availability in the 6.5x55 Swede. I waited over a year for a Tikka in that cartridge to no avail.

[@hilltown4260]

I have that one the sauer little over 2 yrs all good so far

[@Nerdthan2]

Tikka has always made a rifle in 6.5 Swede, I’ve owned one since 2013 along with a 204 that’s no longer produced. But I was just loooking at a new one the other day in stainless steel

[@garyh1449]

@@Nerdthan2 They made then but nobody had one or could get one.

[@bustoje]

The T3X Tact-A1 has a seperate bolt release button, just forward of the safety selector. Allowing the bolt to be cycled out of battery, without moving the safety selector to the fire position. Keeping the gun in safe mode while cycling the bolt open to remove or chamber a round.

[@westllen1]

Great video, love all my Tikka's, actions are smooth as glass and accuracy is unbelievable for the price.👍🏻🇺🇲

[@HaemonAK]

I've had my T3 Lite in 300wm since 2009 or 10, don't recall. I've taken Alaskan moose and caribou with it. The trigger is amazing, the action is phenomenal. I've had it get soaked, river silt and dust all in the action which made it feel gritty but still ran smooth. I was so worried it was going to ruin the action.... Nope. Cleaned it out and very very little oil, and it feels like day one. So amazing.

[@rainsong7327]

Im sure stout recoil with the Synthetic stock?I guess for just a hunting rifle who cares.

[@bneaclab1]

Own a sako 30 06 from 68. Smooth as butter and sub moa. Doesn't get better. Older Tikkas are also fantastic. I'm sure if you like the modern actions you'll love the older actions...

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

We're a little nutty about Tikkas as well! Fantastic rifles!

[@rsquared9703]

Late to the show, I bought the tikka tac and what won me over was the action 100%. When I had the bolt open and leaned over to check something and the bolt slid closed just by gravity. Pre fit barrels are amazing too. I ordered one from preferred barrel blanks, the gun smith said that that was one of the few barrels that fit without any cutting even with the claimed “pre-fit”.

[@hughtanner208]

love how you guys talk this out......

[@jonasbrenden]

And Ryan you should try the Schultz & Larsen bolt if you are impressed with the Tikka. Its a reasonable priced system rifle produced in Denmark.

[@loral82]

T3x lite stainless in 35 whelen for the win!!! Follow by t3x hunter in 6.5 swede, both have been phenomenal rifles for me. Love the tikkas

[@ValcoBayrunner]

Someone bore out a 30-06 for you to 35 whelen or did you buy a barrel pre-chambered?

[@Bobstone2131]

I have a 60's era LSA-55 in 308 that is my all time favorite rifle. Imported by Ithaca. That was my intro to Tikka and I'm hooked.

[@jheasley1]

Thank you very much! Very interesting, lotta information I wasn’t aware of, surprising at 61 years old you find out new things like this😊

[@VortexNation]

Appreciate you tuning in, James!

[@rhekman]

I'd be curious to see a comparison between the Tikka and a Danish Krag-Jorgensen action. Both are world renowned for their smooth operation, and the top-rear mounted safety looks so similar. I know the Krag is at this point an antique military rifle, but I just have to wonder if the Finns took some inspiration from those crafty Norwegians Ole & Erik.

[@The_Judge300]

I own a Norwegian Krag in 6.5x55 Krag from 1918 and it is very smooth and very accurate and I love to shoot and hunt with it. I also love the magazine solution on it. When I shoot and hunt with it, I often think that bolt rifles have in reality not been developed and changed much in more than 100 years. The main evolution has been with gun powders and bullets.

[@hersheljackson69]

I love all Sako's, Tikka a step under, but a good rifle .

[@sully1178]

I haven’t seen anyone say it yet but the Sako 85 Finnlight which, from what I can tell, has the same action, has the safety item you were talking about. It’s a small button you press in when you want to run the bolt with the safety engaged. I have one chambered in .308 and it’s one of my favourite features. Love the vids!

[@Greyzonecompliant]

It should not be the same action. The sako 85 have 3 lug bolts the tikka does not. And the tikka t3 and t3x are all long action. On the shorter cartridges like the 308, it has just had the bolt travel blocked so it does not have the full range of motion. Its the same with the magazine. The sako 85 has actual short and long action variants. And the magazine are double stacked so you can top load through it, not so on the tikka. But the barrels are made (to my knowledge) in the same factory with the same accuracy 😉. And you get the same smooth action on both rifles. We used to make good hunting rifles here in Sweden to. But even then hunters still bought tikkas and sakos, they have always been excellent 👍

[@dougmhenriksen]

I recently purchased a CZ600 Alpha when I was looking for a rifle. The action is nearly as good as Tikka. The safety locks the bolt in place, BUT the bolt release allows clearing chamber without taking safety off. Super happy with the CZ. Will still get a Tikka in a larger caliber in the future.

[@markobratina4592]

unfortunately, CZ600 it does not reach tikkas smoothness. If you don't push bolt handle completely parallel it will jam much sooner than the Tikka. 

[@gpearce11]

Another thing to consider, as a lefty, is that they have one of the largest left-handed catalogues on the market (I think only Savage, and maybe Browning, come close). Obviously, not every single configuration is available, but almost all the popular ones are, and when you factor in the aftermarket customisation available, so long as you get a lefty Tikka with the right bolt face, the sky's the limit.

[@scottthorning3963]

They are made in Finland, nuff said...

[@Winkler_B_Rudolf_1911]

I've got a Tikka T3X Lite in 7x64mm Brenneke, with a Burris Four Xe scope, and a few accessories including some Vortex ones, and I love it. For the low price I paid it, it's one of the most accurate and best quality rifles.

[@MrAndy7316]

In New Zealand a lot of guys have a gun smith carry out a half cocked modification, I believe it is a hole made in the bolt that allows the pin to lock the bolt in the mid position so the cocking handle sits at 90 degrees the the rifle when the safety is on.

[@simonleclercq4554]

tikka comes from tikkakoski which means woodpecker in Finnish because the first weapon they produced was a SMG whose sound reminded the Soldiers of a woodpecker.

[@VortexNation]

How neat is that?!

[@johnstamp7545]

I thought it was because it puts all bullets in one hole, like when a woodpecker pecks there’s only one hole left. That’s what mine do.

[@ridemcowboy1935]

@@johnstamp7545 EXACTLY!! 🙂

[@Yeoman7]

But not because the district they are produced in is called Tikkakoski ?

[@joelclark2130]

You guys make me spend too much money.😂 How can you not love the tikka?

[@VortexNation]

🙃

[@thedirtygot9570]

Love my t3x superlite in 6.5 creedmoor! Topped it with a vortex viper hs 4-16x50!!! Best shooting rifle I have ever owned! And that action is just amazing!

[@paulnirschl6500]

Tikka won me over many years ago with the Whitetail Hunter in 22-250. And I still have that rifle and 14 other Tikkas in T3 and T3X.

[@Mike-xi4zt]

Tikka and Sako S20 are way ahead of any other factory rifle. The Ruger American is a good value for the money. But the machining on the tikkas and Sako is in another League. Like he said the factory triggers are superior to anything else out there. I also have Remington 700s and Savage. Save up and get Tikka or Sako S20. You will not have to say all those cuss words and your blood pressure will be lower.

[@Patrick-857]

The only advantage with the Remington 700 is it's aftermarket. A lot of PRS shooters are using builds based on the Remington 700 action, but not a single Remington part on the gun. A PRS guy I know described the Remington 700 as "crap" but his Voodu chassis is based on it.

[@Mike-xi4zt]

@@Patrick-857 the Remington 700 got a head start in the market place. And became the most common first. The Remington 700 extractor claw is a piece of junk. That recoil lug system of sandwiching a washer/recoil lug between the barrel and the action is a piece of junk, same with Savage. Ruger American bedding recoil lug system is one of the better ones available. Tikka and Sako do not use the insanely stupid washer between the barrel and action recoil lug. I use Remington 700 and have owned them for years. I own Savage 110 and not going to buy any more of their crap. Savage has the potential of being a decent bolt-action but those idiots running that factory ship unfinished crap out the door. The last three Savage's I've bought had excessive headspace the bolt closed on a no-go gauge. The chamber had galling marks that were horrendous. When you unscrew the barrel from the action the threads were galled up with some kind of crap that looked like grinding wheel dust. The bolt on a $1200 Savage 110 would not open and close because they did zero finish work on the parts. They just sprayed some kind of black paint crap on it and shitted it out the door.

[@khoov48]

I love my Ruger American rifles

[@shauno7582]

And also everything they just said is true. Best rifles out of the box I’ve ever owned! Won’t buy anything else.

[@AbeCaravetta]

I was excited to hear that there are replacement bolts available for the Tikka, thinking i could pick up a standard bolt t3x and a magnum bolt to allow a whole host of caliber options and interchangeablility. I just spoke to LRI and unfortunately they discontinued the aftermarket bolts due to "material hardness requirements".

[@johnnyrocket1320]

I highly recommend trying out a T3X in the new SPUHR SICS chassis. It's a fantastic combo. If you're on the fence with its looks, the form factor is excellent

[@Hollywood41642]

Its Sako's Generic line for less then half the price..

[@petrihakkinen2336]

Sako have tikkas innovations

[@russellsutton9014]

Bought a 300WSM Tika for my son, and the safe question was the first thing I noticed! Fortunately, he was trained with my old 700 Remington's that are the same way. I have newer 700"s that you can unload with the safe on! Awesome website guys!

[@TheAdam2877]

I have to say my Tikka T3X CTR 20" SS is amazing. It comes threaded 5/8×24, 10 round medal magazine and the only thing I would like to eventually change is the stock. Dont get me wrong the stock works, it has several accessories you can purchase whether its for length of pull, the grip and the rail. But the one thing they took off that was on the previous version was the adjustable cheak riser which I fixed by adding my own. Also lets face it plastic stocks are nice for weight savings but usually poor for the purpose of barrel float. Ive been looking at a krs stock that while plastic has aluminum bottom metal and aluminum bed to just bolt in. Another tip if you purchase a tikka is to buy a YO DAVE trigger spring which gets it under 2lbs xloser to 1lbs or less and they only cost around $10. It is truly hard to beat this rifle for the money and the after market is really catching up with other popular brands.

[@brenn330]

No better rifle in the price range

[@willd7596]

This is exactly it.

[@jon1801]

European bolt actions are the best in the world. Eat yer heart out Remington and Ruger.

[@bagged68C10]

I own 2 tikkas, a T3X Superlite in 7 mag, and a T3 in 308 and I love them both. Wouldn't trade either of them for anything! Quality affordable with an action that is smooth as silk.

[@jacobivy2854]

I run a T3X and Sako S20. They’re just a fantastic family of guns.

[@hammerheadms]

One of the guys I hunt with has a 742 in 30-06. I really liked the accuracy and recoil management of the gun. I found it to have no significant increase in recoil over my Model 70, 7mm-08, and was a real pleasure to shoot. Never realized the 742 had a problem with jamming. Ever since shooting my friends rifle, I have been looking at finding one for myself, possibly in 270Win. I will definitely be meeping this issue in consideration, and I will take note of the remedy.

[@antonhuman8446]

Everyone for his own preferences. Although.. For those in a tight spot having to shoot straight and fast are there few, more unsafe and irritating measures on a rifle than a three-position safety system! Owned two Tikkas in 30-06. 1971 to 2015. One with a Wide View K4 Weaver - Dot. One with a K4 Weaver - Post. Both on Pivot Mounts. Hard-working rifles. And I'll grow much older before owning anything else in 30-06. Smooth as a baby's bottom. On a tickey. Every time. What a priveledge it was. And the Pivot Mounts. Took very good care of the weapons. And NEVER ever had to re-adjust. Neither. Not a SINGLE click. Thank you. Mr. W R Weaver. Sir!

[@canadianoperator]

One of my first rifles was a Tikka T3X Lite. Not long after that I went into PRS shooting, and when I started doing my research and shopping for a PRS rifle, I once again turned to Tikka. Bought the TAC A1 in Cayote Brown in 308 and have absolutely loved it. I was sold from day one on the T3X Lite. But after touching the A1, I can't even look at other rifles anymore. And that's not to say that other rifles aren't good, it's just... they're not as great as a Tikka.

[@The_Judge300]

I have owned, shot a lot and hunted a lot with a lot of different bolt actions from many different brands, and I have been very happy with many of them, but I think buying a Tikka today is the best out of the box bolt action you can buy, no matter the price. A Sako is on par, but more pricey. A Sauer is very close, but I still clearly prefer a Tikka, even if I am extremely happy with a Sauer I own now, and that is because you can be more confident of getting a very accurate gun out of the box when you buy a Tikka than when buying a Sauer, unless you buy the most expensive Sauer rifles and they cost way more than a Tikka. I own a very accurate Ruger, but I have owned some that have not been. I own a very accurate Winchester, but I have owned some that have not been. I have owned accurate Remington rifles, but I have owned way to many of them that have not been that. I have owned lots of other bolt rifles from many other brands from USA and many European countries as well and some have shot great and some have not. Every single Tikka rifle I have shot have been very accurate to extremely accurate straight out of the box. I am not a huge fan of their plastic stocks, so I prefer them with one of wooden or laminated stock they offer or I put an after market wooden/laminate stock on them. I recommend every new hunter to buy a Tikka as I know for sure that they will get a great gun. I recommend every hunter to buy a Tikka unless they want something special that Tikka don't offer.

[@chrisplatz3114]

Excellent guns with an unbelievable value. Tikka is my #1 go to gun.

[@noahhorinek]

Hey Ryan, at 11:20 you mention a provision to disengage the bolt when the safety's on. Sako 85 triggers are exactly the same except they have a button that unlocks the bolt. You can install one on a Tikka if you grind away a little piece of the receiver right in front of the safety. From experience.

[@derekmcmurry4263]

Bought my first Tikka T3x last year in 308. Got in on clearance for about $525. Now same rifle is $919. Not a fan of the factory recoil pad. Did some reading online and purchased the limbsaver which made a huge difference. I found nothing impressive about the accuracy with handloads or multiple factory offerings and as everyone knows, there's no shortage of 308 Win ammo. Best group was just over an inch. So, I'm hoping to pick it up this week from gunsmith. I'm putting an AGStock on it and a Brux barrel 10 twist #3 contour. The builder ordered a new spring for the trigger to reduce pull weight. If I buy another Tikka I will certainly try it in its factory configuration but now my first impression with accuracy was less than ideal - however, I do LOVE the action and if another Tikka performs like my first, I'm buying it for the action only for another custom build which always makes me happy

[@TMar129]

Love my tikkas. Sold more tikkas then anything when I sold guns. I tell all my friends and family to buy tikkas. Can't go wrong. Thanx for another great podcast!

[@VortexNation]

Thank YOU for tuning in!

[@andrewsmith9455]

My experience .. cycle a tikka action, smooth as silk, cycle a Savage action, feels like its full of sand. Tikka is my go-to .., especially as a left-hander

[@mattmarrs7515]

Own several of these rifles, oh my god they are amazing!

[@heythere6566]

I hear Mountain Tactical is coming out this year with a single set trigger for the Tikka as I own 6 of them. Love the single set trigger in my CZ527 so can't wait to try this. If you KZbin their 2023 shot show video I had a comment asking them about it and they responded to it there.

[@jeff0nyschuk670]

I've got a Tikka M55..from the 70s..6mm Rem..Now this is a beautiful gun!!

[@rogerparent9964]

I have currently a tikka cambered in 300wm. Eldm didn’t group out of it, and the shoulder jump was 8 thou. To reload for it was brutal. Put a new benchmark barrel on it, and now my shoulder bump off full length size is .5 thou. Haven’t shot eldm out of it since, but, I do reload eldx and it’s one ragged hole at 200