This Tikka T1X 17 HMR Review is brought to you by the Old Deer Hunters. The Tikka T1X MTR (multi-task rifle) was supposed to be available in the US in the summer of 2018 in 22LR and 17 HMR, but Covid slowed distribution by a few years. I have been a Sako fan since the mid 70”s when I purchased a Sako Vixen in 223 at the Army/Air Force Rod & Gun Club in Germany. That little pencil barrel would print 10-shot groups inside a 1” piaster at 100 yards right out of the box. Tikka Rifles are made by Sako in Finland and are Sako’s more affordable line of rifles. The parent company of Sako is Beretta Holding.
The new Tikka T1x rimfire rifle is a rimfire version of the Tikka T3X centerfire rifle that has become so popular in the last few years. The Tikka bottom line is that you get a rimfire rifle of unparalleled quality for an affordable price, and they are very close to that goal. The rifle is available in 22LR or 17HMR caliber.
When I first got my hands on the Tikka T1X 17 HMR, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement. It has been five years since the Shot Show announcement in 2018. In this review, I want to share my personal experience with the Tikka T1X 17 HMR and how it has met my expectations as a rimfire rifle for various shooting activities. This is my personal new Tikka T1X rifle, not a test rifle.
The mat blue 20-inch barrel is cold-hammer forged, and its medium profile offers the benefits of a heavier barrel without the extra weight, available in threaded 16” or 20” versions. The threaded barrel was important to me because I always want to shoot suppressed (sound moderator) while hunting and especially at the range. The receiver has a 11mm dovetail groove for easy scope mounting with standard rimfire rings. The adjustable single-stage trigger has a range from 2-4 lbs. The rifle out of the box without a magazine overall weigh is 5 lbs 10 ounces and has a length of pull of 13.25″.
Awesafe Gun Safe, Biometric Gun Safe for Pistols*
Awesafe Single Bedside Gun Safe $99 at AMAZON
A polymer 10-round magazine comes as standard for both 22 LR and 17 HMR calibers.I have had zero issues with the magazine. It feeds every round flawlessly. The Tikka T1X has a stainless steel bolt, which offers smooth movement and unparalleled weather resistance. There is a very short bolt lift so you can mount optics low to the receiver without interfering with bolt operation.
The T1X synthetic stock has the same stock as the T3X but the feel of the rifle is a little different. I think it is because the action is so light that the balance is farther forward.
The butt pad is a hard rubber that is somewhat slick on the surface. This butt pad is only 1/2″ thick so the length of pull was a little shorter than a standard T3X which is about perfect for me. To solve both of these issues I changed the but pad to Tikka’s Robust T3X Recoil Pad. The pad is available from the Tikka Store on AMAZON. This new pad adds about 1/2″ to the length of pull and grips the shoulder well. Best of all, now after adding a scope, my T1X feels just like my T3X rifles.
The stock is the same stock used on the T3x series and can be interchanged. T1X has a new modular synthetic stock that has interchangeable pistol grips, making it possible to modify the angle of the grip with additional grips are sold separately. I also ordered the Tikka Vertical Grip for the T1X and I really like it, especially shooting from the bench or tripod. I definitely recommend the vertical grip.
If you are a competition shooter and you want a more rigid stock with adjustable length of pull and cheek riser I have found a great option. It is the GRS Fenris stock made in Norway. More about the GRS Fenris below.
Tikka T1X Accuracy and Performance Review
Specifications
Caliber: .17 HMR
Weight: 5.7 lbs.
Action: Bolt
Trigger: Adjustable 2-4 lbs.
Rifle Barrel Length: 20″
Rifle Barrel Twist: 1:9″
Barrel Thread Pitch. 1/2×28
Rifle Stock: Synthetic
Magazines Included: (1) 10 round
Handedness. Right Hand
First 100 yard groups from Tikka T1X 17 HRM
When it comes to outstanding accuracy, the Tikka T1X 17 HMR truly stands out. The rifle’s cold-hammer forged barrel needs no break-in and I got exceptional precision from shot 1 during accuracy testing. Shot after shot, I experienced consistent grouping and minimal bullet dispersion. The stability of a heavier barrel helped during testing too.
Best groups were around a half MOA. Most rimfire shooters spend a lot of time at the 25 and 50-yard lines, but with the Tikka T1X 17HMR, stuffing bullets into one hole gets boring pretty quickly. Since this is a hunting rifle, I shot 3-shot groups and not 5-shot or 10-shot groups.
After getting the rifle zeroed at 100 yards, it printed consistent Sub-MOA groups. The target above shows the first four groups shot from the T1X after zeroing at 100 yards using CCI 17gn ammo.
On a later trip to the range, I tried Hornady V-max 17 gn and it seemed to shoot even better. I did not do a second accuracy test, but I was consistently hitting a 1″ paster at 200 yards from a bench rest.
The only thing I did to the rifle before shooing it was to run a bore snake through the barrel, set the trigger at 2.5 pounds and remove the small plastic shim from under the barrel.
The T1X has a plastic shim under the rear of the barrel as part of the bedding surface. It has a single screw holding it in place. It may make the stock a little more rigid but I would rather have my barrel floated, so I removed it.
The single-stage adjustable trigger mechanism was another standout feature for me. Its crisp break and adjustable pull weight allowed me to fine-tune the rifle to my personal preference of 2.5 pounds. I found that a lighter trigger pull improved my shot control, enhancing my overall shooting experience. The trigger guard is composite, not metal.
Tikka T1X 17 HMR Review – Magazine & Action
The bolt action of the Tikka T1X 17 HMR worked flawlessly, ensuring smooth cycling and reliable operation. The short throw bolt pops open quickly and slides smoothly, enabling quick follow-up shots when needed. It gave me the confidence to engage multiple targets without worrying about any hiccups in the rifle’s performance.
The detachable, almost flush fitting magazine holds 10 rounds. It allowed me to spend more time shooting and less time reloading. The magazine design is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to load and ensuring consistent feeding without any issues. To remove the mag you can grab the mag, hit the mag release with your fore finger in one easy motion. Extra detachable magazines are about $40.
I spend more time at the range than hunting with rimfire rifles, but my goal this hunting season is to take a few coyotes with the Tikka T1X. The 17 HMR may be a little light but if I get them under 100 yards, head shots should be easy if I can get them to stop for a few seconds.
While the Tikka T1X 17 HMR may have a higher price ($559) point compared to other rimfire options, its exceptional performance and craftsmanship make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. 17 HMR ammunition is now in good supply and runs about $18 for 50 rounds.
If you’re looking for a precision tool that delivers accuracy, reliability, and an enjoyable shooting experience, the Tikka T1X 17 HMR should be at the top of your list. It has certainly earned its place as a trusted companion in my rimfire shooting adventures.It is one of the best rimfire rifles on the market. There is also a new T1X Ultimate Precision Rifle model available for target shooting and competition use. It should shoot tiny groups even smaller than the MTR.
Tikka T1X Scope Mounting Solutions
Leupold 4x12x40AO with BKL Rimfire Rings
BKL makes excellent rimfie Scope Rings. I use them any time I mount a scope to a grooved receiver. These rings will work for 11mm or 3/8″ grooved receivers. BKL Rimfire Rings Available at AMAZON.
Since I will occasionally will use my Pulsar Thermion XP50 Pro Thermal Scope on the Tikka T1X I have ordered a Talley Picatinny rail for the T1X. It has an ADM QD mount so I can easily move the thermal scope from my AR to the Tikka T1X. I also want to run a Leupold VX5 3-15×44 30mm scope so I think a full length Picatinny rail will work best.
Mounting a scope on the T1X can be done with with rimfire scope rings that attach to the 11mm grooved receiver. The receiver is also drilled tapped for scope mounts or a Picatiny rail. A Picatiny rail is hard to find and costs about twice as much as a rail for the T3X. I found a solution that will save you a lot of money if you want to use a Picatiny rail. It is a rail that attaches to the grooved receiver to accept rings that fit Picatiny or Weaver type rails.
Talley is the Most Recommended Scope Rings For Tikka T1X
Talley Scope Rings for Tikka T1X at AMAZON
Leupold VX5 3-15×44 30mm CDS Scope For T1X
After a few scope changes and scope mounting systems designed for the Tikka T1X, I chose to go with the Talley Manufacturing P00252759 Tikka T1X Picatinny Base and a set of Warne Maxima 30mm Scope Rings to mount my Leupold VX5 3-15×44 CDS scope.
Fit and finish of the Talley rail and the Warne rings are outstanding. I think they are perfect for any rifle and scope system. Together with my Leupold VX5 3-15×44 I and sureI have the perfect setup for targets and hunting.
The Leupold VX5 3-15×44 is a crystal clear scope from edge to edge and the perfect magnification for my hunting needs. The scope adjustments are MOA. The CDS system lets lets you order a free custom elevation turret marked for any cartridge so you can dial in the yardage, hold dead on and hit your mark.
A versatile 5:1 zoom ratio gives you 5 times more magnification at high power than at low power (model magnification ranges may be available in powers of 5x: 1-5, 2-10, 3-15, 4-20, etc.). You can use the 3X for most small game hunting situations and dial up to 15X for targets or long shots on varmints. The side focus gives you option to work with rimfire or centerfire rifles.
New GRS Fenris Stock For The Tikka T1X
I decided to replace the Tikka composite stock with a new GRS Fenris Stock. There are other aftermarket stocks and chassis systems available for more $$$. Most of the weight of the Tikka T1X is the barrel so I wanted a stock with a little more weight for better balance. The GRS Fenris also has adjustable cheekpiece so I can raise it to get proper eye relief when I am using my Pulsar Thermion XP50 Pro thermal rifle scope.
The GRS Fenris stock is a great value, fully adjustable stock with a super-strong body made with reinforced fiberglass. The stealth grey color blends with the black details and makes the stock as aesthetically pleasing when at the range or in the woods. For targets or hunting, the Fenris is versatile enough to handle it.
Designed to work with all body types and clothing, it is a perfect match for my rifle and the different ways I use it. The Limbsaver recoil pad reduces felt recoil on center fire rifles and prevents slipping off the shoulder when used on rimfires. The honeycomb grip stands out in appearance and performance with a superior look and non-slip, vibration-dampening design.
The Fenris with new asymmetrical grip pattern will let me take advantage of the Tikka’s excellent accuracy. It also has sling swivels and an additional attachment point for a tripod.
It is much more rigid, has quick, push button adjustable length of pull and very ergonomic grip. Overall it is a great stock for about $300. I can also use it on my T3X rifles also since T1X shares the same stock. I hope this Tikka T1X 17 HMR Review has helped you in some way.
- Low-maintenance synthetic materials
- Adjustable LOP and cheekpiece for faster and more accurate shots
- Ergonomic honeycomb grip for better recoil absorption
- Bedding is installed as a standard to prevent flexing and reduce movement
- Adapted to fit a height-adjustable recoil pad to be added for prone shooting
| Rifle stock specifications | |
|---|---|
| Product | Fenris |
| Material | Composite |
| Configuration | Right hand |
| Weight | 3,0 lb, 1400 grams |
| Length of pull | 13,1-14,2 in (33,5-36,3 cm) |
| Total Length | 29,7 in, 75,5 cm |
| Barrel channel | Varmint, 0,86 in (22 mm) diameter |
| Forend width | 2,28 in, 58 mm |
| Torque settings | 44 in-lb, 5,0 nm |
| Glass bedding | Bedding blocks are installed |
| Max caliber | .375 HH |
ARCA Rail For Tikka T1X/T3X Rifles
A great accessory for your rifle if you use a tripod system for hunting is the MOUNTAIN TACTICAL T3X/T1X Arca Lite Rail. It is the perfect addition to your hunting or precision rifle.
The rail uses the hardware on your existing rifle to create a solid interface between your rifle and a tripod, giving you a stable shooting platform.The radiused edges eliminate snags and burrs. Includes install swivel stud. Mounting hardware is included.
17 HMR Trajectory Chart
History Of The 17 HMR Cartridge
The .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) cartridge has an interesting history, driven by advancements in ammunition and firearms technology. Tikka is only one of many rifle companies that offer the caliber. Here is a little more info about the 17 HMR cartridge that shoots so well in my TIkka T1X.
Development of .17 HMR started in the late 1990’s with the idea of creating a high-velocity rimfire cartridge for small game hunting and varmint control. Ammunition manufacturer Hornady and firearm manufacturers Marlin and Ruger collaborated to develop a new rimfire cartridge that would offer improved performance over existing rimfire rounds.
In 2002, the .17 HMR was officially introduced by Hornady and chambered in Marlin and Ruger rifles. The cartridge is based on a necked-down .22 Magnum case to accept a .17 caliber bullet. The bullet diameter is 0.172 inches (4.37mm), and it typically weighs between 17 and 20 grains.
The .17 HMR offered several advantages over existing rimfire cartridges like the .22 LR (Long Rifle). It had significantly higher muzzle velocity (about 2500 fps) and flatter trajectory, making it more effective at longer distances. This made it popular for varmint hunting and pest control, where precision and minimal bullet drop are crucial.
Over time, the .17 HMR has seen the development of various bullet designs, including polymer-tipped and hollow-point bullets, optimized for different hunting and shooting applications. My Tikka T1X shoots all 17 HMR well, but it is extremely accurate with Hornady V-max ammo.
Many firearms manufacturers produce rifles for the .17 HMR cartridge. Bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles, as well as single-shot and lever-action models, became available to cater to different shooting preferences.
The .17 HMR gained popularity among hunters, pest controllers, and target shooters due to its impressive accuracy and relatively low recoil. The cartridge’s appeal also extended to some shooters as a viable option for small game hunting. I have switched from the 22LR to the 17 for all my small game hunting.
The .17 HMR has proven itself as a versatile and capable rimfire cartridge, offering enhanced performance compared to traditional .22 LR ammunition. However, as with any cartridge, it’s essential to use it responsibly and choose the appropriate firearm and bullet for the intended purpose.
For small game like squirrels it can not be beat and is effective on varmints up to the size of coyotes.
Also see Tikka T3X Lite Roughtech Review
