With variable geometry. Review and test of the Tikka T3x Varmint precision rifle

The 1998 crisis in Russia affected many things. Rifled weapons were no exception, which were then divided into two large groups: cheap, produced in Russia, and expensive, produced abroad. The middle price category, for which there was the greatest demand, was occupied by Czech carbines CZ and Zbrojovka. After the crisis of the 90s, the situation in the country began to change, and the category of available weapons began to actively expand: new companies began to offer fresh models. One of the most interesting options were rifles from the Finnish company Tikka T3, which did not exceed 1000 euros in price.

The first versions of the Tikka carbine were called M595, and the T3 became the subsequent version, which received significant improvements and a new design. In general, the engineers of the Finnish company were tasked with creating an affordable weapon that would fit within a price acceptable to the average consumer, have an attractive design and would not require additional refinement after purchase. Other than purchasing an additional optical sight, the consumer did not have to make any additional investment in the weapon.

Tikka T3 design

“Tikka” is a reliable and working weapon that looks simple and beautiful. Despite the overall simplicity, there is also an unusual element here - the faceted shape of the receiver. The box itself is made of high-quality steel, but the Finnish company could save 30-50 euros on the material.

The developers also approached the creation of the rifle bolt with great responsibility. The Tikka has a fairly standard double-lug bolt. Despite its simplicity, it is made to a high standard and has a spring-loaded extractor.

When unlocking the barrel, the angle of rotation of the handle is only 70 degrees, which is an excellent indicator for a double-lug bolt. The CZ-550, popular on the Russian market, has a rotation angle of 90 degrees, which makes reloading very inconvenient; it is impossible to do it without tearing the butt off the shoulder. In T3, reloading is fast and smooth, no special effort is needed.

Tikka rifles on the Russian market are offered in two versions: wooden and plastic. In our country, it is the wooden versions that are preferred. In my opinion, it is better to choose the plastic option, since it is lighter, is not afraid of exposure to water, does not shrink, swell or prick, has excellent resistance to mechanical stress and scratches, and shows identical shooting efficiency in all weather conditions. Wood does not have all of the above advantages, but nevertheless, it is in great demand among connoisseurs of true classics.

The assembly of the gun is also performed at a high level. Everything is done carefully and precisely, which provides the weapon with excellent reliability, durability and a high supply of working life. The receiver is produced using modern high-precision technologies, all parts are perfectly fitted, and the surface itself is treated with a material that is protected against abrasion and moisture.

The standard sighting mechanism consists of a rear sight and a front sight. They play a supporting role here and can be easily removed if desired. This weapon is usually used with an optical sight. For its installation, special dovetail grooves are provided on the rifle body.

The rifle has a single-row magazine, secured with a button in such a way that it eliminates the possibility of accidentally pressing it. The fuse is made according to the well-known flag type and is located to the right of the receiver. When the safety is activated, the shutter is locked.

With variable geometry. Review and test of the Tikka T3x Varmint precision rifle

For many years now, the Tikka T3 has been one of the traditional cylindrical valve systems with a good reputation. Characteristic of the new generation T3x is the ability to easily retrofit a plastic stock. Due to the variations in the shape of the pistol neck and forend, the rifle is adaptable and therefore suitable for a variety of uses.

A few months ago, Tikka T3 became Tikka T3x. From the German importer, Manfred Alberts, we received for testing the new T3x in the “varmint” version chambered for the .308 Winchester cartridge. Manfred Alberts supplied a test sample, which was mounted with a Steiner 4-16x56 Ranger riflescope with a proprietary Sako/Tikka mount. Compared to the previous model, significant changes affected the design of the stock and receiver.

Our test rifle, the T3x Varmint, came equipped with a Steiner 4-16×56 Ranger scope, similar to match rifles.

The Sako brand today

Founded in 1893, the Finnish company Tikkakoski Oy began producing weapon parts in 1918. In 1983, it merged with Sako. Since 1989, production at the Tikkakoski site was discontinued and production of Tikka branded products was moved to the Sako site in Riihimaeki. Since 2000, Sako, with both its Sako and Tikka model series, has been owned by the Italian holding company Beretta. Tikka is now the brand name for a range of bolt action rifles manufactured by Sako. Tikka models have settled into the mid-price segment, making options suitable for sport shooting, such as the Tikka T3x Varmint presented here, truly attractive to beginners.

We know the current generation of Tikka repeating rifles as the T3x series, which replaced the T3 series last year.

Tikka T3x Varmint features a plastic stock with a futuristic appearance, with replaceable elements

Development of the model range

With the advent of the T3 model series several years ago, the division between short and long bolt groups was eliminated, and for reasons of cost, a single bolt group length was adopted, which made it possible to accommodate cartridges up to .338 Winchester Magnum in length. Before the appearance of the T3 series, there were models with a short bolt group 590 and 595, as well as with a long bolt group - 690 and 695.

The short bolt group was made for cartridges up to and including .308 Winchester. The 690/695 bolt groups accept cartridges up to and including .338 Winchester Magnum.

All of these previous Tikka bolt groups are conventional cylindrical bolt systems that have two massive lugs at the head.

The shutter mirror is recessed relative to the front end. The ejector is located on the right, in the head of the bolt. The bolt has two lugs in the head. The shutter handle is tilted back.

From T3 system to T3x system

The differences between the T3 bolt group and the newest T3x lie in the change in the extraction window, as well as the rail for mounting an optical sight. The extraction window has been slightly enlarged, which in practice only matters for long cartridges. Much more important is the new design of the rail for installing an optical sight on the upper surface of the receiver. The prismatic rail for the branded Sako/Tikka brackets has been preserved, which has proven itself for many years as a load-resistant alternative when fired. But in practice, larger and therefore heavier optical sights become much more important. Such sights are optimally mounted on a picatini rail, which is screwed to the receiver. Therefore, for T3x models, threaded holes are provided in the receiver, which are located at a maximum distance from each other. From the author’s point of view, this event is one of the most important elements in the development of the model range from T3 to T3x, since the Picatinny rail, especially now, has become a standard design element of high-precision rifles. Significant design features of the T3 bolt group are retained in the T3x.

The bolt moves in a faceted receiver. The shutter mirror is recessed; the cartridge covers a belt protruding relative to the mirror. A durable hard ejector is located on the right side of the bolt head. The function of the reflector is performed by a spring-loaded bend located in the shutter cup.

The steel recoil pad on the T3x sits in the stock and fits into a matching cross slot on the underside of the head receiver. The receiver is attached to the stock with two connecting screws. The bolt handle is connected to the bolt frame via a dovetail. This device makes it very easy to replace the handle.

The T3x Varmint has a bolt handle that ends in a standard steel ball and has a good grip even when wearing gloves.

The shutter coupling is completely closed, which prevents dirt from getting inside. In the new Tikka T3x this part is metal. In T3 models, plastic was also used here. When the hammer mechanism is cocked, an extension with a red dot protrudes under the coupling.

The two-position safety is located on the right, next to the receiver bridge. When the safety is on, the shutter is blocked from involuntary opening. A three-position striker safety is available for an additional fee. This fuse is produced by Andreas Schuler, owner of the company ASH - Armory Workshop in Hochwang (ASH Buechsenmacherei zu Hochwang). In the middle position, the ASH safety locks the firing mechanism, but allows the bolt to be opened for loading and unloading. The ASH three-position safety is a true improvement on the T3x models.

The shutter stop button is located on the left side of the receiver bridge. The T3x Varmint model releases without warning; in the standard version, the trigger force is set to 1200. For all Tikka T3x models, a combined trigger mechanism, which is already known from hunting models, is offered as an option.

The Tikka T3x model has a plastic single-row magazine known for many years from its predecessor models. The Varmint variant uses a downward magazine that holds five rounds of .308 Winchester. Thanks to the single-row arrangement, the supply of cartridges is excellent.

On the Tikka bolt group, the bolt stop (pictured left), which must be depressed to release the bolt, is located on the left side of the receiver bridge. The T3x model has a two-position safety (pictured in the center) located behind the bolt handle. When the safety is on, the shutter is also locked. The T3x Varmint rifle features a detachable plastic magazine that holds five rounds of .308 Winchester cartridges in a single row. This ensures trouble-free delivery.

Match barrel from Sako

The Tikka T3x Varmint has a 600mm long forged Sako match barrel that measures 22.2mm in diameter at the muzzle. In .308, Winchester Tikka uses an 11-inch (279 mm) rifling pitch, which is considered ideal in this caliber for bullets weighing between 150 grains (9.7 g) and 180 grains (11.7 g). The muzzle is made concave inward and flawlessly processed.

The muzzle has a disc-shaped muzzle, similar to match rifles

Variable geometry plastic stock

The most noticeable difference between the T3 Varmint and the new T3x variant is the black plastic stock. The butt comb has a slight “Monte Carlo” shape. The stock ends in an improved black rubber buttplate that absorbs recoil better than the T3 model. In just a few steps, the T3x can change the shape of the stock. There is a Torx head screw on the underside of the pistol neck. After unscrewing it, you can separate the pistol neck. There are various neck options, differing in thickness and angle of inclination. Thanks to this solution, the pistol neck can be adapted to the user's wishes. It is also possible to take into account various manufacturing variants in a simple way. An element can be separated on the forend, which is ideal for shooting from a rest. Anyone who finds the fore-end too wide for shooting from a standing position leaning against a support can separate this pad. The grip surfaces on the pistol neck and forend are made rough due to the texture of lines and raised dots. The bases of the swivel are attached to the lower surfaces of the forend and butt. The new design of the plastic stock of the Tikka T3x model is a practical solution that contributes to the versatility of the rifle.

By unscrewing the Torx screw on the bottom surface of the pistol neck, you can easily change the various elements of the pistol neck

The tested weapons feature the solid workmanship that Tikka rifles have known for many years. The installation on the stock was done immaculately. The price of the rifle corresponds to a favorable price-quality ratio. The T3x rifles also remain reliable, no-frills, practical weapons for everyday use.

Impeccable shooting accuracy

Firing tests took place at a distance of 100 m using a bench rest. The author shot four variants of factory ammunition, including both hunting and match cartridges. In order to fully measure the accuracy potential of the T3x Varmint rifle, the author used five match versions of his own equipment, equipped primarily with match bullets with a hole in the head. These five loadouts have already performed well in previous tests of .308 Winchester rifles and regularly serve as benchmarks in gun testing.

The results, especially with match cartridges, speak for themselves. The Sako Range and Super Range offer two low-recoil options, and the Super Range's 102-grain (6.6 g) HP bullet accuracy was especially impressive. When considering the test firing results in the table, it is clear that the accuracy of almost all equipment options is below the outstanding mark of 1 arc minute.

After each change of equipment, the barrel was thoroughly cleaned with Hoppe's No. 9 Solvent, and then before shooting three qualifying series, three shots were fired into the bullet receiver. During the entire shooting period there were no delays. When shooting at a fast pace, the Sako match barrel showed no “thermal” hit displacement.

And although in Germany the Tikka T3x Varmint will primarily be in demand among sports shooters, it can also be well suited for hunting, especially when hunting from a tower.

The Tikka T3x Varmint is designed to chamber a wide range of cartridges from the .204 Ruger to the big game .338 Winchester Magnum. For sport shooting, the most interesting options are chambered for .222 Remington, .223 Remington, .260 Remington, 6.5×55 Mauser (Swedish), as well as .308 Winchester. Shooters will be pleased that the Tikka T3x Varmint is also available in a left-handed version in most calibers.

DWJ findings

Currently, the T3x series has grown from the T3 model range. In a couple of steps, you can adapt the pistol neck, as well as the forend, to the user’s wishes. This option is especially useful when changing from a standing position to a lying position from the support. The T3x Varmint rifle we tested chambered for the universal .308 Winchester cartridge showed (as usual for Tikka rifles) very good accuracy, above average. In Germany, varmint variants will be in demand primarily among sports shooters.

Hans J. Heigel, translated by Mikhail Dragunov

Main modifications of Tikka T3

The Tikka T3 rifle is made in several versions. Each has distinctive features, thanks to which the consumer can choose exactly the weapon that suits his preferences:

• Tikka T3 Lite is a weapon with a black plastic body, and its barrel is made of high-strength blued steel. The main innovation of the Finnish company in the Tikka T3 Lite is the stock. It is made of modern durable fiberglass, which makes it reliable and lightweight. The handle has a special notch, which makes using Tikka T3 Lite convenient in all weather conditions;
• Tikka T3 Varmint is the best option for sport shooting or hunting. The excellent balance of the barrel reduces vibration to zero during shooting, and also does not allow the working parts of the rifle to overheat even when shooting quickly. The body of the Tikka T3 Varmint is designed so that the gun is very convenient to use;
• The Tikka T3 Battue is a short-barreled shotgun designed to be quickly ready before firing. High mobility is achieved due to unique sighting mechanisms made of fiber optics. The Tikka T3 Battue is also equipped with a special Optilock mount for an optical sight. The barrel of the Tikka T3 Battue is 70-150 millimeters shorter than other rifles in this series;
• The Tikka T3 Hunter is an excellent rifle for those who prefer a combination of classic design and modern technology. The body of the weapon is completely finished in wood. Technical characteristics and a high working resource allow the Tikka T3 Hunter to be used for sports and recreational shooting;
• Tikka T3 Tactical is the most popular type of this family. This is due, first of all, to the approach to creating the barrel of the Tikka T3 Tactical weapon. It is made using cold forging technology, and chromium and molybdenum are added to the steel, which make the Tactical barrel stronger and more durable. The carbine is protected from mechanical and atmospheric influences by a solution of manganese phosphate, which is carefully treated with the Tactical body. The Tikka T3 Tactical's muzzle threads are protected by a custom Sako muzzle brake;
• Tikka Stainless is a premium version of the Tikka rifles, which combines classic European design and modern technologies from the Finnish company. Stainless type guns can be “powered” by cartridges of a wide variety of calibers, which is why they are often used for hunting a wide variety of animals and for sport shooting at targets of different categories. Stainless rifles have improved design and strength, which allows the carbine to be used even in the most extreme conditions. Of course, Stainless type weapons are more expensive than classic ones.

Tikka T3 Tactical Sniper Rifle

In the middle of the first decade of the 21st century, the Finnish armory introduced a new T3 Tactical repeating sniper rifle, intended primarily for use as a police weapon.

The Tikka T3 Tactical sniper rifle was developed on the basis of the Tikka T3 sporting and hunting rifle (which has a large number of modifications in caliber and use) and was offered with a choice of .223 Remington, .308 Winchester and .300 Winchester Magnum cartridges.

The T3 Tactical uses the Mauser bolt locking design. Locking is ensured by two lugs located on the front of the bolt. The right lug is cut (to accommodate the ejector) and moves in a groove milled in the receiver. This bi-directional design ensures smooth, smooth movement of the shutter. The ejector and reflector are also located on the front of the bolt.

The bolt is made of stainless steel and has a very meticulous finish.
The bolt handle, round in cross-section, ending in a sphere, is located directly above the trigger. The angle of rotation of the handle when unlocking is 70º. view of the controls of the Tikka T3 Tactical
The rifle uses an adjustable trigger mechanism without warning, which allows you to set the trigger pull from 1.0 to 2.0 kg. The entire trigger mechanism is assembled in a housing, to which the fuse parts are also attached.

The two-position fuse directly blocks the sear. In the “safety” position, the bolt is also locked. A fairly large safety slide is located to the right of the impact mechanism. It is equipped with transverse corrugation and is easy to manipulate.

The receiver is forged from a steel billet, and its surface has a special coating that is resistant to abrasion and moisture. A gas outlet is provided on the left side of the front of the receiver, which serves to remove hot powder gases from the shooter's face in the event of a cartridge case rupture. The bolt stop is located on the left side of the rear of the receiver.

The cold-forged barrel, manufactured by Sako, has rifling pitches of 203 mm for .223 Remington and 279 mm for .308 Winchester and .300 Win Mag cartridges. The outer surface of the barrel is sandblasted and phosphated. The muzzle of the barrel is equipped with a thread protected by a safety clutch for installing a muzzle brake or a shot silencer.

The base of the trigger guard, the trigger guard itself and the receiving window for the magazine are made in the form of a single plastic part.

Tikka T3 Tactical
The weapon is fed with ammunition from plastic detachable box magazines with a capacity of 6 rounds of .223 Rem caliber, 5 rounds of .308 Win caliber and 4 rounds of .300 Winc Mag caliber. The magazines protrude relatively strongly from the stock, since the cartridges in them are not arranged in a checkerboard pattern, but in one row. The magazine lock is located in front of the magazine in a deep groove in the stock.

The black stock is made of glass-filled plastic; has a grille on the pistol grip and forend, obtained by casting. The length of the stock can be changed by attaching plastic spacers. The butt ends in a black rubber butt pad. The spring-loaded cheek piece, adjustable from left to right, provides adjustment of the height of the butt comb up to 25 mm in 5 mm increments. The stock is equipped with bases for sling swivels on the bottom and both side surfaces. A bipod can also be attached to the lower base for the swivel, located on the forend. The stock can be well adjusted to suit the shooter's body type and position and provides comfortable grip when shooting from a sitting or lying position.

Tikka T3 Tactical
The Tikka T3 Tactical rifle is not equipped with open sights. Instead, a Picatinny rail-type rail is screwed onto the top of the receiver, onto which various optical sights are mounted. In addition, under the Picatinny rail there is also a dovetail base milled on the receiver.

The Tikka T3 Tactical sniper rifle was classified as a weapon with a good price-quality ratio, surpassing many models of its class in terms of this ratio. The rifle has high shooting accuracy (factory warranty 1 MOA) and high quality workmanship. Its not too significant mass, and its overall length, which is not large for a weapon of this class, make it very comfortable to wear and quickly change position (even with a shot silencer installed). The proprietary silencer, which goes well with the weapon, allows you to shoot up to 100 m with a greatly reduced shot sound if you use special subsonic cartridges, and in combination with conventional cartridges, reduce the sound from the muzzle wave and the fieryness of the shot.

Conclusion

The Tikka weapons complex is a reliable, durable and convenient weapon that uses the latest achievements in the weapons industry. Each carbine is made so well that the shooter will not feel any discomfort while shooting and will enjoy every minute of using it.

If we compare it with the Czech CZ-550 shotgun from the same price category, then when shooting from it you feel a certain discomfort. This is not the case with the Finnish Tikka gun, since it is assembled to a higher quality than its Czech competitor.

A huge plus is also the wide range of the family (from Tikka T3 Lite to Tikka T3 Tactical) - different shapes, a large selection of cartridges, a variety of wood and plastic options. In general, the buyer has to think about which carbine from the Finnish company to choose. The price of Tikka weapons is completely justified and not overpriced.