I think I promised a report after asking you guys some questions before I bought this rifle. This rifle has excellent fit and finish. I like the stock even though I usually prefer woods. The bolt is smooth as silk and it loads perfectly every time. Given my primary target, prairie dogs at distance, the rifle is perfect for shooting off bags. It rides on bags firmly and gives me a very steady view through my Meopta Optika6 4-18X scope. Both rifle and scope are heavy. That makes it ideal for my purpose, but too heavy to carry about.
It has a two-stage trigger that says it can be adjusted down to 2 lbs. It is factory set around 4 lbs. The adjustment instructions are clear and easy to follow. BUT, mine would only adjust to 3+ lbs and a built in stop would not allow further adjustment. I do not like the two stage trigger. Frankly I do not see the point of the first stage. I called the parent company, Beretta, for assistance. The guy was helpful and friendly. He said I was welcome to remove the trigger assembly and send it in. Said they might replace it or say it is within acceptable limits. Any attempts to change the trigger (filing down this and that or replaceing screws) could void the warranty. So, I'm ordering a Jard trigger 12 ozs. The 3 lb factory trigger would probably be acceptable to many shooters. It is crisp.
Accuracy: The accuracy is good/very good, but, so far, not great. I have a Remington 700 VS .223 1:12 twist that will shoot 50gr Sierra BKs under .5" at 100 yds and 1.25" groups at 200. I had hoped that the Tikka 1:8 twist would be as accurate with heavier bullets (62 gr) at longer distances for targeting long distance p-dogs and coyotes. I've only been able to produce 1" group with the 62 grainers, but not consistently. Went to 55 gr and it shoots .6", which, while very good, is not what I had hoped for after spending $1600 on the rifle and $700 on the scope. My Rem 700 has about $1500 wrapped up in it with a Shilen trigger. Oh well, in for a penny in for a pound, I'm investing an additional $150 in a Jard trigger and then I'm done.
I would still recommend this rifle, given the fit, finish, and function. But, prairie dogs will not know the difference if they are killed with a cheaper rifle.
It has a two-stage trigger that says it can be adjusted down to 2 lbs. It is factory set around 4 lbs. The adjustment instructions are clear and easy to follow. BUT, mine would only adjust to 3+ lbs and a built in stop would not allow further adjustment. I do not like the two stage trigger. Frankly I do not see the point of the first stage. I called the parent company, Beretta, for assistance. The guy was helpful and friendly. He said I was welcome to remove the trigger assembly and send it in. Said they might replace it or say it is within acceptable limits. Any attempts to change the trigger (filing down this and that or replaceing screws) could void the warranty. So, I'm ordering a Jard trigger 12 ozs. The 3 lb factory trigger would probably be acceptable to many shooters. It is crisp.
Accuracy: The accuracy is good/very good, but, so far, not great. I have a Remington 700 VS .223 1:12 twist that will shoot 50gr Sierra BKs under .5" at 100 yds and 1.25" groups at 200. I had hoped that the Tikka 1:8 twist would be as accurate with heavier bullets (62 gr) at longer distances for targeting long distance p-dogs and coyotes. I've only been able to produce 1" group with the 62 grainers, but not consistently. Went to 55 gr and it shoots .6", which, while very good, is not what I had hoped for after spending $1600 on the rifle and $700 on the scope. My Rem 700 has about $1500 wrapped up in it with a Shilen trigger. Oh well, in for a penny in for a pound, I'm investing an additional $150 in a Jard trigger and then I'm done.
I would still recommend this rifle, given the fit, finish, and function. But, prairie dogs will not know the difference if they are killed with a cheaper rifle.
