Sako purchased Tikka several years ago and has been slowly introducing the Tikka line as what we might call an economy Sako. Just a year or so ago, Beretta purchased Sako and now owns both Tikka and Sako.
On my recommendation, my Godsons Dad bought my Godson a Tikka Whitetail Hunter Deluxe in .30/06 for his deer rifle. Its not only very accurate, but one of the most beautiful rifles Ive ever seen. The Trigger is user adjustable with the small tool the manufacturer furnishes with each new rifle.
The wood-to-metal fit is perfect as is the hand-checkering. The cheek-piece is just the right height and perfectly positioned. The bolt is ABSOLUTELY smooth and free-moving. You only have slightly elevate the rifles muzzle to move it all the way to its rearmost position. The bolt has one less locking lug (2 instead of 3 for the Sako), but 2 locking lugs are VERY adequate for a center-fire rifle.
According to the manufacturers literature, the barrels for both the Sako and the Tikka come from the same box. Therefore, the quality and accuracy of the barrels are the same on either the Sako or the Tikka.
The Tikka comes without sights, so a good scope is in order. In my opinion, the Tikka represents the BEST VALUE on the center-fire hunting rifle market. I own a Sako, but if I were in your position, Id buy the Tikka Whitetail Hunter Deluxe unless I was rolling in bucks. If I WAS (which I'm not) rolling in "bucks", then Id buy the Sako.
Strength & Honor
Ron T.