x-bolt vs t3

I’ve got both and their have the pros and cons, here are my thoughts.

Tikka action is smoother operate and should be more ridged due to the fully enclosed top, but this makes it a little tighter if you want to single load a round into the chamber, the open top of the xbolt.

I find the bolt handle on the tikka to be more comfortable to use vs the skinny one on the xbolt.

Trigger on the tikka is better out of the box but the browning can easily be improved with a Yo Dave spring

Browning has a better stock with in the synthetic and wood versions, browning are bedded from the factory and the wood stock has nice sharp cut checkering

Accuracy from both is very good, tikka barrels are CHF while x-bolt are cut. But both should be capable of sub moa accuracy.

The xbolt is more compact overall since they use different length actions depending on the cartridge length and also shorter barrels for each cartridge vs the tikka.

Scope mounting is easy for each and I would recommend Talley light weight one piece rings.

Magazines are both good for each, with tikka having higher capacity ones available from the factory and single stack while the xbolt uses a rotary design

Tikka is far far more customizable with a large aftermarket supply of parts, if you want to change something such as a larger bolt handle it can be done easily and cheaply just changing the part.
 
I like the bolt through and the fit if the stock better on the X-bolt I had better than the T3 I had, but the T3 had a better trigger. Both are nice budget rifles for the money, don't think you will be unhappy with either.
 
Let fit decide. Personally I've owned a few T3s and prefer the XBolt now.
The reasons for XBolt: flush mounted mag, bottom metal, tang safety, 60 degree bolt throw, 3 locking lugs, bolt release to cycle while on safe, slightly better fit/finish to my old eyes and finally better ergonomics for me.
Both brands have been very accurate in my experience.
 
I have both in multiple calibers. tikkas kick more plain and simple. something about the stock design. tikka in small calibers x bolt in bigger. I don't think there is a finer all around big game fun mass produced than a x bolt stainless stalker. from the stock to the safety its just perfect. well the trigger could go a touch lighter but that's it.
 
After trying both i prefer the Xbolt, but that was in .308, it just felt much nicer shooting/recoil wise. I didn't like the way the tikka felt during recoil.

In a smaller caliber i might be persuaded to change my mind and go the other way, or just go with whatever one is marked down the most when i was looking.
 
Proof Research makes a Tikka contour, .224" 8 twist. That would make a hell of a 22-250, or better yet a 22 Creedmoor
 
Both are great options. I prefer the Tikka. Ive owned a few of them. I have also owned an x-bolt. My friends x-bolt in 270 is very accurate as is my Tikka. The x-bolt comes with a very nice recoil pad so that would be nice if you want a bigger caliber. Tikka mags generally hold 3 rounds. I think the x-bolt holds 4. I've heard some gripes about the x-bolt mags. Not sure how common the problem is. The tikka is lighter I think. I think this comes down to preference. Which one feels better to you?
 
Ive shot both as coyote rifles and really like the Xbolt, felt great in the hands,,,loved the stock. That being said I have shot a Tikka for the past 3 years in a .204 and love it as well. Both are great rifles....Tikkas have much more parts that a guy can customize with . Xbolt dont have a .204 in a light weight hunting rifle that Im aware of and have found the .204 the best coyote round if your putting up your fur, so I shoot a Tikka :)
 
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