Ive been lusting after a Tikka T3 tactical in .308. it seems like a nice gun; i think i'd like to buy it. it would be my first bolt action. I would be using it for fun, not work.

It seems very light. how is the recoil?

What kind of accuracy are you guys getting?

what kind of scope would go well with this? i'm a noob when it comes to scopes. I realize that i'd probably have to spend at least a grand. what magnification should i get? What about an 6x ACOG?

An ACOG does not belong on a bolt action rifle.

The Tikka line is an amazing line of rifles. I've got a few friends owning Tikkas, and they'll all shoot sub MOA groups. Smooth bolt throw, easy to shoot, and quite fun. The stocks feel a little cheap however.

For a scope, how much do you really want to spend? Look into some scopes with turrets, instead of the hunting scope which aren't meant to be constantly adjusted for wind/elev.

The Super Sniper 10x, Bushnell 3200, 4200, 6500 would work great, the Leupold Mark 2 or Mark 4, Nightforce, Schmidt & Bender, Premier Heritage, US Optics, or the new Vortex Razor HD would all suit well for a long range rig.

Also, don't skimp out on your mounts. Get a good quality 20 MOA base and rings. 50mm objective should be the max to keep your scope low to the bore.

Good luck!

I don't have the tactical model but I do have a T3 Stainless Varmint in 308. I have a Weaver classic Extreme 2.5x10x50 with the #4 German post reticle mounted on it. It's extremely accurate and the recoil is not bad at all, from the bench or prone. I really like mine.

I have the T3 lite in 30-06. Recoil is quite manageable. I think you will like the gun. Great trigger and very accurate as well. Lots of scopes will fit your bill, especially in the $1k range. I like the super sniper scopes and they will leave you with some extra coin in your pocket.

I have one.
Very reliable, accuracy is fine (sub moa on most ammo). Very tough have pretty much dragged it through everything.
for the price its a bargin.
recoil is not an issue for me, but again that is a comparative thing...in bolt actions they are all pretty much the same if they weigh the same.
jb

thanks for the info guys.

the mags seemed lightweight. anybody ever had one break?
should i get the Tikka mounting rings or are there better rings for the money?

definitely want the harris bipod.

also consider the new SS 3x9x42 - it is first focal plane, and mil/mil with a mildot reticle. really good glass for the $.

if you don't like the recoil, the tactical is already threaded, and for $200, you get the sako/tikka muzzle break, and drop it down to .223 levels

I have the Tika in .223 and it is the most accurate 223 I have. I cannot speak to the recoil issue, but I believe you will be very happy with the accuracy based on my gun.

Good Luck

I have a tactical in .308. I concur with hrcjon, sub moa accuracy out to 500 yards. Recoil is a non factor. Mags are very sturdy, you shouldn't have any issues. Btw, I have a Nightforce NXS, optics of my choice. Good shooting, good luck !