Sako Trg-22 vs Tikka T3X

[Mauser1909]

Hey everyone — looking for some real-world feedback before I pull the trigger on a Sako TRG-22 in .308 Win with a 20” barrel.

Use case: “normal” hunting ranges for elk, deer, and bear (not a dedicated PRS/range gun). I’m prioritizing a rifle that’s reliable in adverse conditions (cold/wet/mud, backcountry abuse).

I’m comparing it against a Tikka T3x, and I’d like input from folks who have hunted with either (or both), especially in rough weather.

A few specific questions:

• How has the TRG-22 held up for you in real hunting conditions (reliability, feeding, extraction/ejection, dust/water, freezing temps)?

• For those who’ve hunted a T3x hard — do you feel it’s just as dependable, or did the TRG actually bring something meaningful to the table?



• Stock question: Any opinions on TRG factory stock vs a Rokstock for a hunting setup?

• comfort in field positions (offhand/kneeling/prone)

• sling carry / pack carry

• overall ergonomics with heavy clothing / gloves

 

[Formidilosus]

Hey everyone — looking for some real-world feedback before I pull the trigger on a Sako TRG-22 in .308 Win with a 20” barrel.

Use case: “normal” hunting ranges for elk, deer, and bear (not a dedicated PRS/range gun). I’m prioritizing a rifle that’s reliable in adverse conditions (cold/wet/mud, backcountry abuse).

I’m comparing it against a Tikka T3x, and I’d like input from folks who have hunted with either (or both), especially in rough weather.

A few specific questions:

• How has the TRG-22 held up for you in real hunting conditions (reliability, feeding, extraction/ejection, dust/water, freezing temps)?

The TRG does very well in field conditions.

• For those who’ve hunted a T3x hard — do you feel it’s just as dependable, or did the TRG actually bring something meaningful to the table?

They are similar. It takes a lot to see any difference.

• Stock question: Any opinions on TRG factory stock vs a Rokstock for a hunting setup?

The TRG is heavy. It is not really comparable to a ROKStok. If weight at all matters, the T3x with ROKStok is significantly better.

• comfort in field positions (offhand/kneeling/prone)

• sling carry / pack carry

• overall ergonomics with heavy clothing / gloves

These really aren’t comparable rifle systems. One is a purpose built 13-15lb sniper rifle, the other is a 7-9lb hunting rifle.

 

[Q_Sertorius]

I can’t compare with that model Sako, but I wouldn’t trade my upgraded stainless T3X in a wooden RokStok for any other rifle: except for a stainless Sako in a wooden RokStok. And that’s only because I think the integrated picatinny rail is a trifle better than the Tikka option and I like the 3-position safety on the Sako. I’ve also heard rumors of better magazines. If I was an orthodontist, I would have the Sako in a wooden RokStok, not a Tikka.

The only upgrade I put on the Tikka - apart from the wooden RokStok - is the PR Precision stainless steel bottom metal with the winter trigger guard. It improves the look and feel of the rifle a lot and provides a modest improvement if I ever take a shot with gloves on.

 

[AirborneEScouter]

The TRG is my favorite rifle I own (have a 22 and a 42). Factory 308 win is a serious laser. Not a great hunting rifle as per Form, but if you can get one for a decent price (~2,500) it’s an awesome rifle to add to your stable. All the accessories are fairly expensive (mags are ~200ish / trg bipod is 500 new) and it’s more of a collector rifle (depending on your willingness to abuse it) so research that if you’re still interested but also used stuff comes up on eBay/gunbroker/forums periodically. The factory forend also uses a anschutz type (euro) rail and while you can add an arca to it, it’s not as user friendly as more modern stocks if you’re a tripod guy

Also own various tikkas and you just can’t beat them. Sounds like you might be looking for just one or the other and you’re going to be better off with the tikka if you want something to hunt with but I will probably buy another TRG 22 in the future. They are awesome (especially in green)