I'm sold in the .30-06. Dont want to start a dreaded caliber debate, and I'm sold on the Tikka. I have read through ENDLESS threads on every possible forum, spoke to everyone I know and read up a ton on the pros and cons of many popular calibers. Lets just say for my intended use and only wanting to own one rifle right now the .30-06 is just what seems like the right choice for me. Ask 10 other people the same question and I know I could potentially get many different answers, none of them wrong, maybe some more right than others, but a lot of it is also personal preference. I've also come to the conclusion that with several calibers, although they can generate pretty heated debates and people can be VERY opinionated and passionate about THEIR caliber, but when it comes down to it, for the shooting large game at shorter distances that I'll most likely be doing it's kind of splitting hairs between those popular calibers.
Been to quite a few shops, shouldered quite a few rifles, and for price, weight and quality it's what I want. I could afford more, but don't feel the need to at this point with this being my first rifle. I'd rather have a more stripped down basic rifle to cut my teeth on and something more utilitarian that still is more accurate than I am. Also don't want a rifle I'll have to baby or worry about damaging out in the field. Sure, the Christensen Arms Ridgeline is a damn sexy rifle to look at and felt great, but right now it isn't going to make me a better shooter. The money saved getting the Tikka will be better served by getting better optics, better boots, etc. If I thought spending less on the Tikka would result in me not getting an accurate rifle I'd for sure be looking at a more expensive firearm. It's like getting the base model car or the limited version. Both do the same job, one is just more refined, but they still both get you to where you're goin the exact same way! Just need to figure out what scope to go with.
