Best option for a tikka 6mm build

[JDBAK]

I bought a new 1-8” Tikka .243 for $600 (steal!). It went straight to Kampfeld Custom to get cut to 18” and threaded, and while at it throat it long for 109 ELDM. Haven’t shot it yet, but seems pretty ideal for my uses.
Funny, I started as a kid 35 years ago hand loading and hunting with a .243. A bunch of calibers later I’m decided my ideal is a .243 again, but modern heavy bullets, Rokstock, suppressor and Maven scope.
Long storage trip….

 

[DRUSS]

I have a 280AI also and really like this cartridge. I too was fireforming before brass was available.
I did build a 243AI also and my fireforming load ended up being 108gr at 3k still grouping under 1/2" so didn't feel like I was losing to much other than time.
Honestly I have been contemplating a 6um or maybe finally getting on the y.6.5 bandwagon. Not sure which one........ 147gr above 3k would be the goal though, hopefully with 20" barrel

 

[wyosam]

I’ll probably never shoot the barrel out of it. I might end up going this route if I end up going a new tikka. Just chop the barrel and call it a day. I would love a 243AI but fireforming is such a PITA, although 100 pieces of formed Lapua brass would probably outlast the barrel. The .243AI would actually probably work really well with 1/8 twist in a short barrel for heavy’s.

Why is fireforming a pain? Go shoot your gun- bam you’re fire formed. I usually do an abbreviated load work up (typically a dozen rounds or less), then I have a load that works fine for fireforming. Probably not far from what it will shoot when it’s done. Then go shoot it. Hunt with it, shoot steel with it, positional practice, etc. whatever you’re going to do with the rifle. By the time it’s broke in enough for final load work, you have brass. 100 is great for a hunting rifle. That said, Dasher would be great as well, and feeds perfectly from tikka mags.


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