Tikka T3 or Ruger m-77

earlwellman

I went on a search, today, for a Ruger m-77 in .308. I found none, but did handle a t-3. Opinions of the t-3 would be appreciated.
[:)]Earl

rock,roll,n,load

I'd go with the Tikka.
[;)][;)]

stevecrea

Tikkas have a 70 degree bolt lift, which is faster than the Ruger's 90 degrees. The Tikka has a detachable magazine, so you can carry an extra for quick reloading. Tikka also has a one MOA accuracy guaranty, and has a free floated barrel. I have a Sako 75 Hunter, which is similar to the Tikka, and the action is very smooth, with a very good trigger.

earlwellman

Thanks all, I did like the weight of the T3. I noticed a lot of plastic, including the mag. I wonder the reliability of so much plastic, though it is much lighter for a full sife gun. Accuracy has been a bit of an issue for my rugers. I have a few and they are rugged hunters, not tack drivers. That is what I am looking for in this rifle purchase. How do you rate the t-3 for durability[?][:)]

sandwarrior

earlwellman,

In this past year I've handled and shot a bunch of T-3's in different calibers. They continue to impress me. Not only with the accuracy but with their price as well.

Mk 19

There is no comparison between the two, the T-3 is a far better rifle than the M-77. Just wait till you feel the buttery smooth bolt and the crispness of the trigger and you'll be hooked

carbine100

Ditto, T-3

amblerrl

tikka in 7-08 and if you don't like it sell it to me.

laogai

+1 for the tikka, and 7mm08 for that matter.
far better than Ruger for all the reasons mentioned, especially trigger, accuracy, and smooth bolt.

you'll appreciate the lightweight plastic, which can be very durable nowadays, and doesn't rust or scratch.

RCrosby

Can't let things get too lopsided. I have no experience with the Tikka, so this isn't meant as any kind of slam on them, but if you haven't taken a close look at the new 77 Hawkeye, you should. Ruger's best 77 yet, IMHO.

HandgunHTR52

earl - to answer your question about durability of the polymer parts, they will hold up better than some metal parts that manufacturers are putting out now days. It is darn near impossible to scratch it and it is extremely durable, plus it knocks a lot of weight off, which is good if you carry it around a lot.

I have a T3 in .243 and it is probably the most accurate gun I have in my safe. Plus, I didn't have to mess with the trigger at all (unlike my Winchester, Brownings, and T/Cs).

The only draw-back to the T3 is that they only make two action lengths, standard and magnum, so even if you buy a short-action caliber, you get a standard length action. It doesn't affect the shootability at all.