I wouldn’t worry about what class you’ll be in. Rig something up the best you can and go shoot.
Very good possibility you’re going to go through an evolution with a lot of gear once you start.
If it’s the 6.5 in open, go shoot.
If it’s the 243 in factory, go shoot.
I shoot NRL/PRS 22 and...
Does anyone have any experience with the 140 Gold Dot under 500?
It seems that the advertised BC may be inflated somewhat (.571), but even running the numbers around .490 makes it 1800 FPS at 525-550 depending on MV. Thanks.
This was my thought as well.
I had a RA Gen 2 with the 20” barrel in 6 ARC and had very mild recoil.
Down side is that it did have a brake, but I don’t think it would increase significantly with out it.
ETA. I know the RA doesn’t meet your requirements, I was referring to cartridge.
I recently bought a Sightron S1 from @gr8fuldoug.
Mine is a 4-12 but they had 3-9’s for $150.
3-9’a are advertised at 13.6 ounces.
I’ve only got about 40 rounds on mine at the range so I can’t really comment on zero retention.
But tracking/eye relief/glass were all good for the price. IMO...
As far as suppressed goes, I think that would be another virtue for the Tikka given the circumstances (new/young shooters).
I know from personal experience that it’s hard to scrounge up enough money for a rifle, let alone a can for it too.
In that regard, try and by one that gets the noise...
I know it makes sense and most will already know.
I shot both my RAR in 5.56 with a 16” barrel and my Tikka compact with a 20” barrel today.
Noticeably more noise from the 16” barrel.
And I know that everyone will think “No shit” and I agree. But I never realized how much before today after...