Tikka T3 CTR maybe

[CoalTrain49]

I've been looking for my first .308 rifle. Looked at a CTR today and was impressed. I want a heavier barrel that won't heat up after 3 rounds. I watched some video and it looks like most everyone who shoots it likes it.

I'm just going to use this rifle at the range under 300 yards, not going to hunt with it or shoot any terrorists. I reload and already have AR Comp powder and a bunch of range brass. With that 1/11 twist what weight of bullet would be good to start with?

If anyone has any experience with this rifle I would like to hear about it. Seriously considering buying one in the next few weeks. I know there are less expensive rifles out there but this one is calling me.

 

[SwaneeSR]

Well I am a big fan of my non-CTR Tikka in 6.5x55se. I do not own a CTR, but I have been following others on this sight who have posted.

For example- this thread by Gtscotty

Tikka T3 CTR Range Report
https://www.thehighroad.org/index.php?threads/tikka-t3-ctr-range-report.763859/

I see they now offer the CTR in a stainless version.
http://grabagun.com/beretta-tikka-t3x-ctr-308win-ss-sy-20.html

Very nice. I hope a CTR doesn't start calling my name... Not in the budget for now.

 

[someguy2800]

You won't regret it. Tikkas are superb guns.

 

[Gtscotty]

I love my Tikka CTR in .308, it's an excellent shooter, especially given its price tag and reasonable weight. For range use, I'd
Plop an SWFA SS 10x or 12x mil/mil on top a you're good to go.

I've shot 150's, 168's and 178's in my rifle, and the heavier bullets shot the best. With the 168's I have loads for Varget, IMR 4064 and AR-Comp, all shoot quite well. I've found that my CTR does well with 42.4gr AR-Comp under a 168gr Nos CC @ 2.86" oal.

The 178gr Amax and ELDx also shoot very well in my rifle, at velocities in the low 2,600's.

The barrel of the CTR is thick enough that you can shoot 5 and 7 shot strings without heat becoming an issue. I've posted up a bunch of target pics from this rifle in various Tikka and bullet threads, so I won't bore anyone with more, but I'm definitely the limiting factor in the shooting equation with that rifle. I can't imagine you picking up a CTR and being disappointed.