First Look: Tikka T3x Rifle Line

Tikka officially launched the new T3x line of rifles at the 2016 NRA Annual Meetings. The Tikka T3x line features 12 different rifle options for hunters and tactical shooters.

The new Tikka T3x line includes innovative modular features that offer versatility to the end user. The T3x synthetic stock has interchangeable grips and forends so that shooters can customize their individual rifle. In addition to the synthetic-stocked models, versions are also available with walnut wood stocks.

On the synthetic stocks, different grips can be selected depending on the shooting situation. For hunting, a more traditional grip that blends with the small of the stock can be used. For tactical or bench shooting, the grip can be switched out for a vertical-style grip. Forend grips can be selected depending on width in order to better fit a shooter's hand.

In addition to grip modularity, the Tikka T3x comes with a redesigned recoil pad that incorporates air pockets into the rubberized pad that reduces recoil and makes for easier and faster follow-up shots.

The butt stock also features a foam-lined interior that reduces noise when moving through hunting grounds and bumping the rifle against obstacles. This feature is not available on models that feature an adjustable cheek piece.

Another new feature of the T3x line is a metallic shroud on the rear of the bolt. This shroud adds to the clean look of the T3x rifle while protecting the bolt body and firing pin from the elements.

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On the T3x receiver, shooters will find additional mounting holes for attaching a Picatinny rail to ensure that the scope base stays solid through recoil and other abuse. In addition to the rail mount, iron sights are also available as an option on the T3x line.

Below the rail attachment, Tikka included a redesigned ejection port that is wider in order to facilitate loading single cartridges.

The T3x comes with a two-stage safety selector that is easily accessible on the right side of the bolt shroud. When engaged, the safety blocks both trigger and bolt operation.

A single-stage adjustable trigger is featured on every T3x model. The trigger is adjustable from 2-4 pounds.

A cold-hammer-forged Sako barrel is also threaded and hand-crowned on every T3x in order to ensure the best possible accuracy. According to the company, no T3x rifle leaves the factory in Finland without first shooting a 3-shot group under an inch at 100 yards.

Tikka T3x models also feature a detachable magazine that holds anywhere from 3-10 rounds, depending on the caliber and the model. The Tikka T3x Compact Tactical Rifle model features a detachable 10-round steel magazine, regardless of caliber.

Weight and barrel length vary, depending on the Tikka T3x model. The lightest available model is the T3x Compact, which features a 20-inch barrel and weighs 5.9 pounds. The heaviest model is the T3x Varmint, which features a 23.7-inch barrel and weighs in at 7.9 pounds.

The suggested retail price on the T3x line is model-dependent. The lowest-priced model starts at $575, while the line tops out at $1,150 for the Compact Tactical Rifle.