[Ericbc7]

Yes verify the twist.

If you are inclined to long range, let's hope you have the rare 1:8 twist.

If you have the 1:10 twist then push your loads using the 50 gr bullets.

Dogdown is the best resource for tikka I have found, so read his posts and decide after.

[Ericbc7]

Just to reply on the scope mounting issue:  if you put a rail on the rifle, you don't need to worry about the scope mount height.  The forester is set up for high scope mount to begin.  Just buy a high mount and be done

[Ericbc7]

I had to post some more, the 7mm-08 is a spectacular round. You will (if you are a reloader) get super performance out of your new rifle.

Talk to us if you have issues in reloading.  We wil be glad to help.

[Ericbc7]

Welcome friend!
And my props for picking a first rate rifle!

The forest is as good as it gets regarding hunting wepons combined with good scopes.

Ok that said now we talk about the rest of the variables…
The factory rings are not ” high performance”.
You will be best served by buying a mountain tactical pic rail and a compatible ring mount. 

Ok so now you have the pic rail from mountain tactical and now you now have options.

The best value in pick rail rings is the SWFA tactical rings for about $30+ maybe $40

[Ericbc7]

My hips are pain defined…  Sorry if I miss the detail.  If I can work the details with an eye toward the 80.5 bullets I will be happy.

My hips still problem though

[Ericbc7]

Welcome my friend!

Between us we should be able to fix you up.

[Ericbc7]

Wish I could help, not likely

[Ericbc7]

Mountain tactical is working on magazines that might work for you. I am not privy to the date they will be avail, but I bet it will be worth waiting for.

[Ericbc7]

Thanks for the replies!  I am thinking the 2nd focal plane for the newer scope and if I need I can swap em. 

I am working on the 6.5 as we speak, the light trigger spring from Earnie the gunsmith is not working well-I.e. The striker is following the bolt down.  Putting the original spring in now.  Odd since the same spring in my .223 works like a champion.

Thanks again for the insight on scopes – Eric

[Ericbc7]

I use the chargemaster combo, and while I like it, I find that +-0.1 gr is a bit too coarse for precision loading.  I use it to throw charges 0.1 or 0.3 gr short of my goal and transfer the charge to my Gempro 250 and trickle up to goal with an Omega trickler.

Someday I would like to get a high end precision scale, but would still use the Charge Master for the initial throw.

I haven't used the Lyman gen 6 but have not heard anything negative.  one of the most important features to look for in an electronic powder dispenser is ease of cleaning/emptying/changing powder. 

Good luck!

[Ericbc7]

I have not used the Lee factory crimp die, but saw some preliminary research regarding varying the crimping pressure with the “Consistant Crimp” torque handle and Lee crimp dies.  .223 loads were tested, varying the crimp force only.  The results were interesting and suggested that there is a “sweet spot” for crimp force similar to bullet seating depth.  Look up the Consistant Crimp product and the research should come up.

Let us know if you find anything interesting!

[Ericbc7]

I love my MT rails- very precise fit and great finish!

[Ericbc7]

you do have other options, including complete bedding of your action.  That is the rout i would go.  Dont let the barrel get involved since you will be replacing the barrel eventually.

[Ericbc7]

the update for you is that Gunsmiths where you reside are capable and willing to attach suppressors to your model of Tikka T3.  Good luck. – Eric

[Ericbc7]

I almost regret my advice on trying the “file off the Trigger assembly screw”.  If you tried the earnie the gunsmith spring then you have the trigger as low as you can go.  You cannot go lower since 2 oz. is like nothing.  If you are there then look elsewhere for a trigger job.