Need some help on rifle decision

[Cornbinder]

After 30 years my old Encore in 300 win mag has finally reached the point where I need to upgrade some parts and freshen it up. But I’ve been seeing these newer bolt guns at the shows over the past couple years and thought maybe it’s time to get another one for hunting. My last was a Vanguard I bought from Walmart of all places. Probably because it was the best price. I have about 500 rounds of 300 win mag in various forms so I’ll be sticking to that caliber. And before I ask, I have read a bunch of reviews and watched a bunch of videos and even spoke to a few manufacturers about a few things. But most were sales pitches or sponsored videos and that’s why I’m asking here. I also know how much the group likes Tikka. I also know that these discussions can get a little western! That’s fine. Started out wanting a CRF Mauser type action but soon realized that most of those don’t have the aftermarket support like CF barrels, drop in triggers and such. I do like to tinker a bit if I need to. So I went for the 700 side of things. Had it narrowed down then saw that you can or practically build your own rifle in your garage at this point with pre fir barrels, drop in trigger etc. I have close friend who actually did this but when it came down to it I’m almost 4K out the door for a hunting rifle. I’ve gone through almost every type of configuration and manufacturer, looked through GB for used and have now narrows it down to the Tikka Super Varmiter or the Weatherby 307 CT Alpine. Held both at a cabelas and was leaning towards the Weatherby until I want he’d this video from gunuts on the Tikka. They are $400 apart in price from my gunsmith FFL guy new and I know that the CT comes with carbon fiber stock and barrel. I also like the fact that the CT is made in America. My question is, has anyone shot both? Is Weatherby the same manufacturer as it was 20 or 30 years ago. I’ve only seen two reviews online and both were sponsored so they were glowing. East and and Meat eater although the meat one was not the CT alpine. Other than that not much out there. This will primarily be a hunting gun but I do like to hit the range a half dozen times a year to stay in practice and it’s fun to stretch things out and see how bad I really am at long distances! Thanks in advance for any and all feedback.

 

[Brontosaurus]

Tikka

 

[jimh406]

They both will probably be good choices. I'd buy the one you are leaning toward. Weatherby is the same company, but the 307 is a new action.

 

[wind gypsy]

Super varminter isn't what most would consider for a big game hunting rifle. One of the Veil or roughtech models might be a better fit if you dont want a lite model? Sako S20 would be worth a consideration.

 

[Cornbinder]

Super varminter isn't what most would consider for a big game hunting rifle. One of the Veil or roughtech models might be a better fit if you dont want a lite model? Sako S20 would be worth a consideration.

I’m starting to look at reviews and comparisons now for the Sako. I never would have thought that this decision would be so difficult but I’m thinking that I’m OVER thinking everything about it. I’m not that good of a shot that I would be able to pick out the inconsistencies of some of these guns. I would very much like to have a gun made here unless it’s “hot garbage” as I’ve seen on a few reviews. Or that their customer service is pathetic. Pretty much why I didn’t go with a CA.

 

[Skerhunter]

Another sako vote - even if it is a used rifle off of here or gunbroker.

Building one is fun, because you get exactly what you want. It can be done for well under $4k pretty easy with optics and shopping around.

 

[TaperPin]

I think it’s cool that Weatherby is now making all their actions in house - right here in the Wyoming 307 area code. Rather than supporting foreign workers, so their kids can afford to enjoy the outdoors, Wyoming kids grow up with a solid love of western hunting and shooting, and that’s worth something.



When I think of rifle designs and who made them, that factors into my enjoyment of it. So do plastic parts - sorry, but Tikka plastic does’t do anything for me. Receivers grooved for mounts Americans don’t want to use, seems weird. Triggers held on with a single screw seems weird.



Nothing against the funny sounding guys in Finland that eat cod instead of turkeys for holidays, have domesticated caribou, and always seem to be wearing sweaters. Europeans have to make a living, but it seems weird.