What to buy?

[jonathonh]

Hey guys,

i'm trying to decide on what rifle to buy next... I'm debating between a remington model 700 sps varmint in a .308, or possibly something in a tikka, in either a .300 win mag, 308, or 270 Win short. Any input or suggestions would be awesome! I want the varmint mostly because i think it would be a ton of fun to shoot and take to the range, and yet i can still use it during deer season.

 

[KK1]

Welcome. I's say a CSSA membership in 308

 

[the_big_mike]

I'd go with the tikka in 308 if you want a deer rifle... and still be a load of fun at the range.

 

[jonathonh]

but the sps varmint looks sooooo cool haha

 

[manbearpig]

depends on the province you are in.
if you want a varmint gun for Ontario you dont need a heavy barrel since shots are too few and far between to heat your barrel up to the point where a heavy barrel would be a significant benefit.
you could buy a sporter weight barrel and be fine for both deer and groundhogs, and not have to lug around 14-15lbs of scoped/bipodded rifle.

i used to buy many heavy barreled rifles, but as each year passes i find myself buying lighter and lighter ones as i start to realise that bull barrels are excessive for all but the most rapid fire varmint work or dedicated range use. soon i think all ill be buying is mountain rifles

without making this into yet another Tikka argument thread, i recommend you also look into the Savages and Ruger Hawkeye, IMO you get more gun for your money than with the Tikkas.