Is the Tikka T3 Super Varmint in 204 ruger a good choice for long range varmint hunting?

Question

Thanks in advance

Answer 1

I agree with those who recommend the .223 or .22-250.  I'm no fan of the .17s or .20s - the bullets are too light to provide downrange accuracy and sufficient killing power - plus, they cost more.  The Tikka T3 is a great rifle, though.  You should be very happy with it.  Chambered in .223 or .22-250 you should be able to hunt anything from ground squirrels to coyotes out to 350 yards, and practicing won't cost you an arm and a leg.

Answer 2

Metropol is correct. The .204 is a ballisticly superior caliber for varmints, but the .223 will do just as well, and costs much less to shoot/practice.

If I were to buy a gun that costs a ton to get ammo, I would go 22-250. It has been around a long time, and is a favorite among varminters.

Good Luck.

Answer 3

Avoid ANY rifle chambered in .204 Ruger..... My complaints about this cartridge is that its what I call a "johnny come lately" cartridge... Or "cartridge of the month" cartridge....... Its somewhat popular but not enough that I would buy a rifle chambered in it.... The reason is if it loses popularity or another cartridge comes along that's "better" then you will have an expensive rifle nobody wants.... Besides that the ammunition is expensive......

The best choice for a small centerfire cartridge is the .223... Its got a slightly heavier bullet and good long range capabilities.....

Tikka T3 ?? Good choice but get it chambered in .223... Its less effected by wind and is less expensive of a cartridge to buy.... A lot of work has gone into the ballistics of the .223 by hunters, target competition shooters, military and police.... SEE the .223 cartridge guide below...

http://www.6mmbr.com/223Rem.html

.223 Ammunition is a bargain compared to the Ruger .204 ammo.... Take a look!!!

http://www.the-armory.com/shopsite_sc/st...

The only thing the .204 has on the .223 is its got a faster muzzle velocity and maybe a flatter trajectory but thats about it....

http://www.berettausa.com/product/rifles...

Answer 4

The .204 ruger is a great cartridge, I own two.  the answer above is a little one sided because everyone has a cartridge they love.  What you want to do is research the rifle and chambering you are looking at to see if it will fill YOUR niche, not someone elses.   The .223 will have an abundance of surplus ammo to get on the cheap but that is the only advantage is has.  You can get the .204 loaded with 40grain v-max bullets and will be very happy.  It will shoot flatter than a 22-250, and definently flatter than a .223.  You might lose a little to the wind over a 22-250 with 55 gr. bullets.  One thing you can do with the .204 in a heavy rifle that you can't hardly do with the .22 centerfires is see bullet impacts. That is great for prarie dogs and coyotes to make sure of a solid hit.  Also the Tikka is a real slick rifle, you should be pleased.  But good luck and have fun with the .204!

Answer 5

The best choice for your intended purpose is the 22-250.*