[driver69911]

I bought a Tikka T3 Lite and a Stainless Steel Varminter, both in 223 with 8″ twist, to compete in two different factory-rifle classes in groundhog shoots (paper targets, 100-300 yds).  Both have been winners, right out of the box.

You really can't go wrong with a T3 223, as long as 223 is big enough for what you want to do.  The 8″ twist will allow you to stabilize bullets as heavy as the 80.5 Berger.

[driver69911]

Yup.  Just put a 0 moa steel on a T3 Lite.  Perfect fit and finish.  Highly recommended.

[driver69911]

My experience in shooting groundhog targets @ 100/200/300 yds is that the 223 69 SMKs will stabilize in my T3 Lite 1:10.  Results have been variable, though.  Have more confidence in 64 Berger FB Varmint Match bullets, which are consistently under .75 @ 100,  and sometimes 'way under.

Just got the same rifle in 1:8 twist, so I can use the 77SMK and 80.5 Berger Full Bore.  Results so far are very promising.  Other competitors have had consistently good results with these bullets in their 1:8 T3s.