I got my new rifle today. I was some what impressed with it at first look. Was definitley light in weight compared to most full sized rifles. Everything seemed to fit up well: stock was slick and clean. Trigger was about 3 lbs., bolt was slick, safety was simple but effective. Barrel was floated down to where the heavy taper starts, I hope that is enough.
Mounted a Burris 3x9x40 Ballistic Scope on it with the provided rings. Mounted up smooth, but I think the screws provided leave a little to be desired, but worked fine. The T3 weighed 7.4 pounds with the scope and 3 bullets in the magazine. It should be a great walking rifle at that weight.
Bore Sighted it and shot 3 rounds at 35 yards. 3 nice holes at 1/2" group 5" off bullseye. Adjusted the scope and got it to dead zero. Then shot a 5 shots at 100 yards. about 1 1/4" group. Did not let the barrel cool between shots and felt the 9x scope was a handicap to a degree. Had 3 holes touching and another 1/2" away and the flyer. Was quite please with these results.
I was shooting Remington Premier Ballistic tips 140 gr with 100 yard energy of 2217ft-lbs., 200yd. 1925 ft-lbs., 300 yd-1663ft-lbs. Should be plenty for most game. I will also try other ammo to see if the groups will get any better.
The only complaint I have with the T3 is the recoil pad (NOT TOO GOOD!)
Will surely replace it ASAP, but recoil was little less than my .270.
The the point about the one size action, it is shorter than a typical long action and slightly larger than a short action. A .270 bullet would not lay into the receiver, about 1/2" short. The 7mm-08 bullet fit just perfect. I do not see that this is a issue at all if considering a short action caliber.
I hope this helps any one who is considering buying the new T3. I do not consider it a cheap rifle, but in another brand with the same benefits, would cost somewhat more. I have $700.00 in the total package, and feel it is a fair deal. I think the T3 is perfect for a primary rifle or a back up rifle.
Spence "Bubba Jack"
