Tikka t3 lite or browning x-bolt synthetic

alexm14

alexm14

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Hello everybody,

I'm currently in the process of choosing a rig to go hunt coyote this fall/winter and I was wondering wich one to take between the tikka t3 lite and the browning x-bolt composite stalker. And wich caliber should I choose If I want to preserve the pelt.

Thank you

Alexm14
 
I had a Tikka Laminate Stainless and a Browning Stainless Stalker in 204 I used for coyote calling. I found I used the Browning more so I sold the Tikka . If you can find a Browning X-bolt in 204 it would be my first choice. If not I would not hesitate to buy another Tikka.
 
I hear about the fact that using a .308 with a heavier bullet that doesn't expand fast will not damage the fur? is it real and if so what kind of bullet?

Thanks for the reply
 
Fit?

Like someone said, fit is key. I tried both out and found the x-bolt although a really nice rifle had a shorter stalk and the tikka fit me better so I went with it.
Both guns will shoot way better than I can so that wasn't an issue for me.. I have been told by a wise old coyote hunter though that if you're after the fur, .204 is the caliber to go with, he's tried them all.
 
Comfort is a must in a varmint rifle, but this goes further than just putting the gun to your shoulder. Ask sales personel in the store you deal with, if you can see how a bipod feels on the rifles you are interested in. If they throw one on, get down and check it out in the prone position. The added weight might change your mind about one of them also, or drive you to a gun you weren't even considering (guilty)

As for caliber, I'd go with the .22-250 Rem. or .220 Swift. They have the flattest trajectories, and fastest speeds of the .22 centerfire family. Although, the ammo is a bit more expensive than the .223.
 
I know it's heavier than the t3 lite but have you thought of the t3 HB varmint, they are still only about 8 pounds and really accurate, and about 150$ more than a t3 stainless
 
Biased

I'm biased and overly impressed with my x bolt, it seems to be growing more on me every time I shoot it, settled on a load this week 165gn btsp speers with 45gn of varget lapau f/formed cases and cci br2 primers 3x 3shot groups at 100 yards all one @ .560" one @ .506 and the best was .388" off a bench mind and i still have to take out to 200 and beyond.
That said afriend has a Tikka in 243 and it shoots good too.
 
I have both the T3 and the X-bolt. They are just as durable and accurate. You can't go wrong with either one.

Just make sure they fit you well.

Have fun! :)
 
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