Long known as one of the most accurate “out of the box” rifles available, the Tikka T3 line is getting a major facelift with the announcement of the T3x series.
Announced during a launch event at the 2016 NRA Annual Meeting and Expo in Louisville, KY, the new Tikkas bring a variety of improvements to the T3. The biggest change is a modular approach to grips and handguards on the synthetic stock models. The new grip attaches to the stock body via an Allen bolt through the bottom, much like that on an AR-type rifle. For shooters anticipating more upright positions, the traditional pistol grip shape is easily installed. When more prone shooting is in the cards, a vertical grip can be swapped into position. Likewise, forward hand guards are now modular too. The new grips also feature an asymmetrical texture for improved purchase in tough field conditions.
One of the big changes in the T3x series is recoil pad, which has hollow areas within the pad to dampen recoil.
The T3x rifles also include a new recoil pad design. Hollow areas within the pad dampen recoil from the harder kicking T3 caliber options, allowing the shooter to focus on the shot rather than recoil anticipation.
Other improvements are less visible but intended to provide subtle enhancements to shooting performance and long term durability. The synthetic stock models now feature a foam insert designed to dampen and quiet noise. The rail attachment section of the receiver has been beefed up with extra screw placements to allow attachment of even larger scopes if desired. The ejection ports have been enlarged to allow for faster and easier single cartridge loading. Inside, the recoil lug is now constructed of steel to resist deformation over time with harder-kicking calibers.
On the tactical side, the T3x Compact Tactical Rifle now comes chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor in addition to .260 Remington and .308 Winchester. Hunting models are offered in various combinations of .223 Remington, .22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, .308 Winchester, .25-06 Remington, .270 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, 7mm Remington Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, .270 Winchester Short Magnum, and .300 Winchester Short Magnum.
