Tikka 204 Ruger build

[Darkone1221]

Just picked up a T3X Lite Stainless in 223 for a pretty decent deal. I plan to order a barrel from preferred barrel blanks to chamber it in 204 Ruger. The goal is to have a precise but functional rifle that doesn’t break the bank. After looking into things I wanted to reach out to those who have been through this with the T3X lite and get some input. My game plan is to keep the factory stock, use a trigger tech trigger, and use PBB stainless barrel. The only problem I’ve run into is that my last 204 load was running 2.39 COAL and the 223 mags are too short. I was looking into the many different bottom metals and mags a wanted to see what would fit best with the factory t3x lite stock. I hope to find a bottom metal that is sturdy and doesn’t protrude. As far as mags I’ve seen a few billet options that allow for a longer COAL, I am not familiar with billet aluminum but am partial to a quality polymer mag over a stamped steel mag. Any input there? I am hoping to get some real world feed back on the best way to go for both. Down the road, I may consider putting pillars in and bedding the action, but that’s if it doesn’t shoot quite how I want it to after some break in. Thanks!

 

[mighteywhitehunter]

My personal opinion so take it as such, i would just stay with a .223 and shoot lighter bullets if you want speed.
I own both, the .204 and .223, sure there is a couple hundred fps difference, but the .204 is a pure varmit cartridge for Coyote and smaller game, and honestly isn't as versatile as the .223. Unless you are getting it for a very specific reason(saving pelts or long distance Pdogs/ground squirrels or you just really like to shoot small bullets really fast) I would save the PBB barrel money, COAL headache and shoot .223.

.204s are super fun but, ammo is less readily available and there is less variety, they take specially sized cleaning rods/supplies and reloading components.

Although I have enjoyed it, My .204 is going up for sale in the next couple of weeks.

 

[PC356]

Why .204? .223 way more versatile. Or even .223 AI, especially if you reload.

 

[RWT]

@ruggedstitching here on the forum will 3d print mags for you that will meet your requirements.
Personally I would stay with the 223 and order a bunch of his mags and load long 223’s.

 

[Darkone1221]

My personal opinion so take it as such, i would just stay with a .223 and shoot lighter bullets if you want speed.
I own both, the .204 and .223, sure there is a couple hundred fps difference, but the .204 is a pure varmit cartridge for Coyote and smaller game, and honestly isn't as versatile as the .223. Unless you are getting it for a very specific reason(saving pelts or long distance Pdogs/ground squirrels or you just really like to shoot small bullets really fast) I would save the PBB barrel money, COAL headache and shoot .223.

.204s are super fun but, ammo is less readily available and there is less variety, they take specially sized cleaning rods/supplies and reloading components.

Although I have enjoyed it, My .204 is going up for sale in the next couple of weeks.

Thanks for your response, to tell ya the truth I’m pretty well set in my way with the 204. I have a bunch of brass, powder, bullet, dies, cleaning rods, borescope, case gauges, flash hole uniformer, and mandrels that fit the 204 already. I love the one I have but I just want a nicer rifle in the cartridge. I’m tired of the safety on my ruger American gen 2 binding and sticking, tired of the comb coming loose on the stock. While I have been seeing 1/2 moa 5 shot groups if I start with a cold barrel. The barrel has 1200 rounds through it now and it still shoots decent until it gets warm, but then I get fliers and lose accuracy. It’s not a true 1/2 moa gun. For me this rifle tikka build is gonna be for varmints and shooting paper. I can sit on my property and go ham on rock chucks and gophers. I chose the tikka because I prefer the stock, safety, and action compared to the Ruger, especially for the price. If money weren’t an issues I would go for a defiance action with a McMillan game warden stock but I don’t think it’s worth it for this one. I have yet to do much with a tikka so this is new for me. I have a 22 creed in a chassis that I use for medium game and a 7 PRC for big game. Either way, even if I keep the 223 barrel, I’d like the longer mags and a metal bottom metal. Thanks!

 

[Kkeene]

Hit % on prarie dogs is higher with the 204 compared to the 223.

3D printed mags with longer COAL are available for $40.