Range work for new Tikka Varmint 260

[Fassteel]

Well had the new 260 out for my 2nd go at the range today and found out 2 important things. The rifle is very accurate so far with factory 120 ballistic tips. And that my technique needs improving. After shooting some OK groups for me I had my friend Prosper shoot a group. My rifle loves him!!! First two in one hole and the third he pulled way left by 1/4 of an inch, I was suitably impressed.
Had some better shooting with my new CZ Hornet and my Sako 22-250.
Shot my new to me Sako 308 Forrester HB as well, it grouped very nicely with Federal factory 150grain SP bullets. Put one on those on sale Browning 5-15x40 scopes on top and it was a pleasure to sight in.
Was a great day. FS

 

[NAA]

Tikka in .260 Rem

Looking to get a T3 in .260 Rem sometime in the New Year, too. Will start with the standard sporter though. Will be interested in your load developent with your though. Keep us posted....

 

[Chilly Willy]

The Remington factory loading for the 120 Nosler BT's seems to be very close to optimal in my Rem 700 BDL s/s as well. I've found that with 100 grain BT's, 49 grains of H4350 at factory COL works very nicely too...but close to max load. The 120's over 46.5 grains duplicates Remington's load. I've started loading 130 AB's for deer hunting and found that a slower powder compressed with H1000 works great for sub MOA accuracy out of my 24" tube. Problem is you need a long drop funnel to pack the load down previous to seating that long 130 AB. I've gone to Redding Competition collet dies to try and maximize accuracy and case capacity by neck sizing and reducing brass working by the die. I'll be necking up 243 Win Lapua brass to .264 for my Sako 75 S/S Varminter and stuff 123 grain Scenars for long range target and dirt pig work. I want to try H1000 with those too. Both rifles are in right now getting skim bedded. Once back from the smith I'm going to consider a new spring / pin and shroud for my M700. For what its worth, my M700 grouped the same with 120 BT's ....2 touching and one out 1/4". Not bad but not good enough! Remington crimps the factory ammo so that could play into it...don't know. The 260 Rem sure is a great cartridge and is making a strong come back around S. Ontario from what I've seen