S2H winter class 2026 observations and lessons learned

[24valve]

Is there a discernible difference between the sako and tikka actions when it comes to snow and ice?

No difference between the two when tested at the winter class this year.

Form has done some more ice/snow testing in the past, and it looks like the biggest problem was a weak bolt handle attachment on the sako that broke when hammered open (which was stated to be a known issues on some early rifles and has since been corrected).

**Edit to clarify that it was a Sako TRG that was tested, not any of the sako hunting rifles**

Thread 'Ice/snow comparison between rifles'

Dec 22, 2022

I have been asked by multiple people to do an ice and snow reliability eval between rifles/actions/triggers. Tthis is not a “test”, it is just a view at what generally happens. Doing a legitimate test requires more rifles and consistent conditions than I have. So…


The rifles:

1). Tikka T3 in KRG Bravo chassis

2). Sauer 100 factory

3). Howa 1500 Alpine factory

4). Remington M7 with TT trigger and Bansner stock

5). Winchester Pre 64 M70 factory

6). Tikka T3 factory

7). Sako TRG 42 factory





This will be done in multiple steps, worst case working back back to easy...

• Formidilosus
• Replies: 314
• Forum: Firearms

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Thread 'Rifle ice/snow freeze eval 2025'

Jan 11, 2025

2025’s ice and snow comparison/reliability eval between rifles/actions/triggers. As last year, this is not a “test”, it is just a view at what generally happens. Doing a legitimate test requires more rifles and consistent conditions than I have. So…


The rifles:

1). Tikka T3 in Rokstok

2). MRC in wood Rokstok

3). R700 short action, factory trigger

4). BAT Hammer Head with Bix N Andy Tacsport trigger in chassis




This will be done in multiple steps, from near worst case working back to easy- to see any differences that show themselves. Every rifle is started in exactly...

• Formidilosus
• Replies: 185
• Forum: Firearms

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[kopmantrey]

@Tommyhaak what hilltrek ventile peice have you been using and how has it performed?

 

[Formidilosus]

Is there a discernible difference between the sako and tikka actions when it comes to snow and ice?

The Sako TRG that @24valve posted about, is not the same as the Sako hunting rifles. I don’t expect any real issues with Sako’s, but I also haven’t or them through the same use.

 

[Tommyhaak]

@Tommyhaak what hilltrek ventile peice have you been using and how has it performed?

It’s the Braemar SV L27 weight smock. I’ve used it extensively and have been very happy with performance. It keeps you dry and blocks wind. No chemical treatments to worry about. And it’s durable and can easily be repaired. Worth the cost. I usually wear it over an Atlantic rancher wool sweater. Euro sizes are a little too svelte for me. I recommend going one size up.

Braemar SV Smock L27 Limited Edition

An over-the-head, classic styled smock with hood, designed for windproof and showerproof use. The Braemar Single Ventile® smock provides good weather protection with a storm flap and adjustable hood and hem.

hilltrek.co.uk

 

[kopmantrey]

Have you been around the bealach l35 light version? I'm curious to know how they would compare. My application would be a couple backcountry hunts per season usually with wet snow covered brush.

 

[Tommyhaak]

Have you been around the bealach l35 light version? I'm curious to know how they would compare. My application would be a couple backcountry hunts per season usually with wet snow covered brush.

@cubdriver84d has one of these. I’d ask him, but when we talked about them he was happy with his.

 

[kopmantrey]

@cubdriver84d are you still happy with your hilltrek? I'm curious how it does in wet brush or melting snow covered branches ect any wetting out or durability issues?

 

[cubdriver84d]

@cubdriver84d are you still happy with your hilltrek? I'm curious how it does in wet brush or melting snow covered branches ect any wetting out or durability issues?

Yes, I'm happy with it. I've posted a few times with some thoughts, here recently. mainly use it as an alternative to a light wind shirt or softshell in all seasons. It is certainly more durable than those though, and I have used it bushwhacking through wet brush. It will wet out with a lot of moisture but stays mostly dry inside. If I was planning to use it primarily in snow and wet brush, I would definitely lean toward one in L27 or maybe double ventile.

 

[keags]

Apologies if this has been asked about before - I wasn't easily finding it with the search function.

Form has talked about the course "pretest" a couple times and how often rifles that their owners believe are reliable will fail it.

Is there a good series of tests to perform on one's rifle to be able to predict if it will last through the pretest/course, that we can do at home/local range?

For example, load the magazine and cycle rounds through as fast as possible (without firing) until mag is emptied at least 5 times, then do the same at 45 degree angle up and 45 degree angle down, then do the same but firing each time, etc etc.

Maybe there's just no substitute for trying it in the field in rain and snow, just wondering if there is something we can do as a precheck before getting out there.

Don't want to be one of those folks that thinks my gear is solid but it actually ain't . Thanks!!

 

[Jason Snyder]

Seen any Kimber MT’s come through? Aside from the asswhoop of loading a thousand rounds in a blind mag, I’ve wondered how they’d do. Like a M70 or like a M700?

The main issue I have with my Kimber is the ejection. If you baby the bolt at ALL, the casing will fall back into the chamber. If you tack it like you stole it, it’s pretty dependable. I did a little bending on the claw extractor and that helped, but it’s still there.