Light in weight but heavy on performance — that’s the Tikka T3 Lite Stainless Steel. This bolt-action rifle is made with T3 TrueBody fiberglass-reinforced all-black polymer stock, and Sako’s high-grade stainless steel for the metal parts. Strong and waterproof, yet weighing below 7 lbs., the Tikka T3 Lite Stainless Steel is ideal for game hunting under practically any weather condition.

Tikka T3 Lite Stainless Steel

Basic specifications:

• Length – 42.5”
• Barrel Length – 22.4”
• Weight – 6.8 lbs.
• Range of Twist – 308 Winchester calibre – 1 in 11”
• Magazine Capacity – 3 rounds single-column detachable clip

The Tikka T3 Lite Stainless Steel is manufactured by Sako in Finland. This centrefire rifle is renowned for its remarkable accuracy, effortless operation, and light weight.

The nimble design of the Tikka T3 Lite Stainless Steel can be attributed to its light but solid stock, which is made using the T3 TrueBody design of fiberglass-reinforced all-black copolymer polypropylene. It has a buttplate system that uses spacers to adjust the length of pull. Its pistol-grip and fore-end feature checkering that gives added comfort and better handling under all weather conditions.

Sako’s high-grade stainless steel are used to build the rifle’s metal parts, with the barrel cold hammer-forged from high-grade chromium-molybdenum alloy and securely attached to the receiver by a durable thread. The Tikka T3 Lite also boasts a two-locking lug T3 bolt that has a spring-loaded plunger ejector and removable bolt handle, with a 70-degree opening angle, to provide powerful and efficient action. Its slim and grooved trigger, meanwhile, has a single-stage pull that can be adjusted through the magazine well from 2 to 4 lbs. And the single-column detachable clip magazine, which can hold from 3 to 6 rounds depending on the calibre used, is made of reinforced fiberglass.

Integral scope rails of 17 mm in diameter are installed on top of the rifle’s receiver. A two-stage safety locks both the bolt handle and trigger with a single toggle. Sling-swivels are built in.

Straight out of the box, the Tikka T3 Lite Stainless Steel has a nice setup. At first glance, one can marvel at the black synthetic stock and the satin stainless steel finish of its metal parts. With the rifle not giving too much reflection, game hunters need not worry being spotted early on by their prey.

Taking a closer look, the long bridge on the action and the ejection port on the right side add to the efficiency of the design, as they keep the dirt out of the rifle’s internal parts even after using this firearm during bad weather. Trigger feel is comfortable; the space between it and the trigger guard is enough to accommodate the wearing of gloves. Its slim and straight shape makes it easy to pull, and the vertical grooves add further grip. Moreover, while it has a long-action design, the long bolt travel won’t be felt with a .308 Winchester. At the same calibre, the barrel twist rate is at 1 to 11”, enough to stabilise the bullet. And as expected, performance is above par, as all of Tikka T3 rifles are tested and guaranteed to group 3 shots under 1” at 100 m.

The downside, though, of the Tikka T3 Lite Stainless Steel is its recoil — the kick comes a bit stronger than other rifles in the market. Also, the stock rings don’t hold the scope well; readjusting the sight is sometimes needed, which can be a bit of a distraction when already out on the field. Users don’t have to worry, though, as aftermarket rings and recoil pads are easily available.

All things considered, the Tikka T3 Lite Stainless Steel proves to be a great choice for a high-performance and straight-shooting lightweight rifle that can withstand the elements and any hunting condition. It is available in left-handed option, and in the following calibres:

• 204 Ruger
• 222 Rem
• 223 Rem
• 223 Rem 1 in 12”
• 22-250 Rem
• 243 Win
• 260 Rem
• 7mm-08 Rem
• 308 Win
• 270 Win Short Mag
• 300 Win Short Mag
• 25-06 Rem
• 6.5×55 SE
• 270 Win
• 30-06
• 8Xx57IS
• 9.3×62
• 7mm Rem Mag
• 300 Win Mag
• 338 Win Mag