balonbay thank you so much for the insight.
The RPR you mentioned is REALLY interesting, in fact this is what started my interest in a dedicated plinking gun. I am conflicted as to whether I might find use for the cartridge outside of the range (I am not a small game hunter, but would like the option to do it if the opportunity arose). For that, I assumed a regular sporting stock (ie CZ 457 or Tikka T1X) would be better suited doing range / hunting duty.
That said, do you find the RPR handy enough to carry? Also, do you find the 18.5" barrel limits velocity / accuracy?
I love the idea that it is adjustable right out of the box, without the need to buy a MDT or other stock.
Thanks a bunch.
Lilmike8,
I can't speak on the velocity because I've never used any measuring devices to compare the speeds between RPR, Tikka, and CZ (18" vs 20" barrel, etc.). I also think a lot of the speed and accuracy has to do with the type of ammo you're using. I recommend heavier bullets for 17 HMR; those perform best in all my 17 HMR rifles. But there's no doubt that Tikka and CZ are higher quality in terms of the action; the bolts are a lot smoother than the Ruger's, and Tikka and CZ outperform the Ruger in terms of accuracy as well.
If weight is a concern and you might take it hunting, then I probably will recommend the Tikka. The synthetic stock on the Tikka should be quite nice against the elements and easy to clean, and it's very light (actually too light IMO for bench shooting).
The RPR is bulkier, heavier, and not as easy to carry as a traditional stock, and if you do, I'll probably recommend a smaller scope. But it does offer the benefits of adjustability out-of-the-box, so LOP, cheek-rest-height, can all be adjusted to be perfect fit. Also - another benefit of RPR, it comes with a pre-installed picatinny rail; so it's a lot easier to just buy a scope and rings. The Tikka and CZ
do not come with pic-rails, so you'll need dedicated rings (specific to Tikka / CZ receiver), OR pay additional for a dedicated pic-rail (MDT, EGW, Talley make great rails), which will set you back around $75 - $100.
If you are considering upgrading the chassis and turning this into a serious bench / range gun, then I would recommend CZ (or Tikka).
If you are looking to do a "budget-build" for as lowest cost as possible, then go for the Ruger (RPR).
If you are going to take the same rifle to hunting or range, then Tikka with the original synthetic stock.