New big game gun

[northwesthunter84]

So after getting the shooting bug again last year with setting up my slug gun, I decided to put together a rifle. Had a T/C Encore 300WM that I sold a couple years ago to fund another project. This time I went with a Tikka T3x 7mm Rem Mag. The scope is a Vortex Razor HD LH 3-15x42. I had A Warne rail installed along with a set of Warne Mountain Tech rings. I added a Limbsaver recoil pad, Vortex Lo Pro bubble, and a MK Machining polymer throw lever. I will be installing a scope eez comb riser and potentially an after market bolt handle. Really looking forward to getting this gun to the range. Weight as she sits is 7lbs 11oz. I am looking at ammo and have it narrowed down to either the 162 gr eld-x or 168gr AccuBonds, the 160 gr AccuBonds my get a little range time also depending on the other groups.

[Mtnwalker]

Mine didn't like the 168 ABLR but I didn't do much tinkering with it. After hearing a couple guys say theirs preferred lighter bullets I tried the 150 eld x and it shoots amazing.

[BreezyBear]

Mine loves the 160 accubonds

[kselkhunter]

My Browning loves the 168 ABLRs.  All I shoot anymore.

[northwesthunter84]

Awesome thank you for the info, if I have issues that is the direction I will be going.

[northwesthunter84]

So update. I went with a Lumely Arms Titanium bolt handle/carbon fiber bolt knob. I really like how carbon bow grips feel warm even when cold out so this choice was not only for looks. Also installed a Titanium recoil lug. Cut a little weight but I will admit I just wanted a tighter fit up in the stock over the factory installed and it was only a couple bucks more. I got the bolt fluted by LRI and it turned out awesome. Finally I replaced the trigger spring, with one from MCarbo. It dropped me down to 1.5#’s on the low end for trigger pull, it feels really good with a nice crisp break. All safety checks passed so next up is range time.

[Calvin Rayborn]

Got a buddy that's an Encore nut! 

[Magnum_Willys]

Digging that fluted bolt and the carbon knob.  On my to-copy list . 

[northwesthunter84]

Finally got to the range today for break in. I did a break in to 7 shots, a little copper up to shot 6, cleaning after every shot. Seven had none. Next I shot 3 shot string making adjustments along the way. Cleaned after every string, Including nylon brush up to 22 rounds.  From there I used wet patch/dry patch only. I shot two more 3 round sets at the 100 yard line. I felt good as all 6 went into the center ring. I shot with a sled today next trip will be off bags after some final tweaking. Ran out of time today.  Final 6 shots were to get me close at 200 yards, were I plan to zero. First shot was low left. Second shot was high left. Third was far right. Final mag was center of circled group followed by right than left holes. Pretty happy, .710” at 200 yards with a new gun. Can’t wait to get comfortable with it and see what she can do.  This was all Hornady 162 gr. ELD-X factory rounds. I may try some others at some point but happy for now.

[walter351]

Awesome. I have the same gun/cartridge and have appreciated excellent results as well. If your gun is like mine it will continue to break-in until around 60 rounds. Mine loves the 160gr accubonds as well. Smoked a 5 pt bull in idaho this last year. One shot drop at 271 yards. It is a true pleasure to carry all day as well.   I am still shocked mine shoots as well as some of my custom rifles have. Don't tell my wife.

[northwesthunter84]

Lol, it is amazing the accuracy some of these new production guns have. I’m going to test the 160’s as well for a backup if necessary. Which brand are you shooting or are you reloading? I know Winchester, Nosler and I seem to remember Federal has offerings with that bullet.

[pianoman9701]

Beautiful gun. Thanks for the gun porn.

[walter351]

I reload. RL22 62gr CCI 250 primer.

[colersu22]

I have basically the same rifle as you but blue'd and not stainless.  I have always shot the 168g VLD out of it and it is far more accurate than me.  I really like how the bolt fluting turned out, what pattern is that?

[northwesthunter84]

I was able to grab some Federals today, going to run some next time I get to the range. Thanks for the info, what kind of velocity are you getting?