Tikka T3X in 22-250 Remington Review: New 1:8″ Twist Barrel
The Tikka T3X chambered in 22-250 Remington now features a 1:8″ twist rate barrel. But what’s the big deal about that? Faster twist barrels are becoming the norm in new rifle calibers like the 6 ARC and 6.5 PRC, designed to stabilize long, heavy bullets. However, in the case of the 22-250, ammo manufacturers are still primarily loading lighter bullets in the 40–55 grain range—bullets that traditionally perform best with 1:10″ or 1:12″ twist rates.
Tikka T3x Rifle: A Benchmark in Hunting Excellence
The Tikka T3x rifle, crafted by Finnish firearms manufacturer Sako, has earned a stellar reputation among hunters and shooters worldwide. As an upgraded version of the popular Tikka T3, the T3x incorporates a range of improvements and enhancements that make it one of the most reliable and accurate rifles on the market.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 22-250 Remington |
| Barrel Length | 22.4 inches |
| Overall Length | 42.5 inches |
| Magazine Capacity | 3 rounds |
| Twist Rate | 1:8 inches |
| Grooves | 6 |
| Stock Material | Synthetic |
| Finish | Blue |
| Trigger | Single Stage Adj 2-5 Lbs |
| Weight | Approximately 6.6 lbs |
| Price | $799.00 |
Precision Engineering and Accuracy
One of the standout features of the Tikka T3x is its exceptional accuracy. Built with cold-hammer forged barrels that are free-floating, the T3x minimizes interference from the stock or external factors, ensuring consistent shot placement. Combined with high-quality manufacturing processes and materials, this design makes the Tikka T3x capable of delivering precise and repeatable performance in the field or on the range.
Customization for Every Shooter
The Tikka T3x offers an impressive level of customization, catering to a wide variety of preferences and needs.
- Caliber Options: From .223 Remington to .338 Winchester Magnum, the T3x is available in multiple calibers, making it suitable for everything from small game to large, dangerous game animals.
- Stock Options: Choose from synthetic, wood, or laminate stocks, allowing hunters to select a configuration that fits their shooting style and comfort.
- Barrel and Action Options: Available in multiple lengths and profiles to suit different shooting disciplines and personal preferences.
These options make the T3x a versatile choice for shooters of all experience levels.
Built for Tough Conditions
Reliability is another hallmark of the Tikka T3x. Designed to perform flawlessly in harsh environments, the rifle is constructed from robust materials that ensure long-term durability.
- The smooth bolt action delivers fast and consistent cycling.
- A detachable magazine offers convenient and quick reloading.
- The stock features a recoil pad to reduce felt recoil, and certain models include a modular forend for easy accessory attachment.
Why Choose the Tikka T3x?
The Tikka T3x stands out for its combination of accuracy and reliability. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a first-time rifle buyer, this rifle is engineered to meet your expectations. Its precision engineering, coupled with user-friendly features, makes it one of the top choices for hunting and shooting enthusiasts.
The Tikka T3x is more than just a rifle—it’s a trusted companion for those who demand the best performance in the field.
Heavy VS. Lightweight Bullets For 22-250
I bought a 22-250 for hunting coyotes, but I know some people have other uses for it, like long-range target shooting. I want a very fast bullet, like a 53 gn Vmax at 3800 fps. It will drift a couple of more inches in a 10 MPH wind at 400 yards than an 80 gn ELDX, but for hunting, I think the 53 Vmax wins, hands down.
I ran ballistics info through Hornady’s Calculator and the results are shown below.
I can push the Hornady 53 Vmax or Nosler Varmageddon bullets a lot faster and they shoot much flatter and arrive on target much quicker than using something like a 80 gn ELDX bullet. Point blank range for coyotes is around 300 yards with the 53 grain bullet, and only 200 with the 80 grain bullet.
But even more than that, bullets in the 53-55 grain weight put all the energy on target, expanding violently instead of penciling through a coyote. If you are a target shooter and you have time to dial in the range holdover and wind drift, heavier bullets may be better. For hunting, factory ammo and handloads in the 53-55 grain weight seem to be the best option.
Testing the Tikka T3X in 22-250
In 2024, Tikka made the switch to the faster 1:8″ twist for their 22-250 barrels, leaving some wondering how this affects accuracy with 40-55 grain ammo. The only factory ammo I have found with bullets heavier that 55 grain is the Winchester 64 grain soft point. I decided to test the rifle myself, using both factory ammo and handloads, to see if this new twist rate could still deliver acceptable results with lighter bullets.
I ordered a Tikka T3X Lite 22-250. I had faith the new Tikka would perform well. My Tikka T3X Lite Stainless has a 1 in 8″ twist and shoots 40-55 grain Hornady Vmax bullets very well.
I started with a few loads of Hornady 55-grain GMX and Nosler 53-grain Varmageddon bullets, using AA2230 and CFE223 powders. These loads were about one grain below the max listed in Nosler and Hornady manuals. Additionally, I purchased Fiocchi 55-grain factory ammo loaded with Hornady V-Max bullets.
To ensure the accuracy potential of the barreled action, I swapped the lightweight factory composite stock for a GRS Fenris stock I already owned for my Tikka T1X. The Fenris is more rigid, completely free floated and helps minimize the influence of stock flex during testing. More Fenris info below.
Velocities were measured using the Garmin Xero C1 Pro, Compact Chronograph. This great new chronograph is ease to use, weighs only a few ounces and saves your data for later use in the Garmin App. More information below.
Accuracy Results
After zeroing the scope, I started with the Fiocchi 55-grain V-Max factory ammo. The first three shots produced a 0.75″ group at 100 yards, with subsequent groups showing similar results. Only one group exceeded 1 MOA shown above, and even then, just slightly.
My handloads performed even better, averaging 1/2″ groups at 100 yards. Despite not pushing the loads to maximum velocity, my 53 and 55-grain bullets clocked in at approximately 3700 fps, providing very good accuracy with no high pressure signs.
The Fiocchi factory ammo also proved reliable, though its velocity was around 3450 fps, about 200 fps slower than the advertised speed of 3650. Nonetheless, its accuracy and cost—just $17 per box at MidwayUSA—make it a fantastic option for varmint hunting. At that price, it’s barely more expensive than buying empty brass.
I will be doing a lot more testing of the rifle and loads, as well as hunting in the coming months. I just wanted to get this first test out there in case you have heard anyone saying that the new 8″ twist Tikka’s will not shoot well. Come back for more data in the coming weeks.
Tikka 22-250 Range Test 2 – Loves The Vmax
On my second trip to the range, I tried some Hodgdon CFE223 and Superformance Powder with the 60 grain Hornady Vmax 60 bullets at near max loads. These loads shot very well but the velocity was only about 3400 fps. Hodgdon’s data list a max load from a 24″ barrel to be over 3700 fps. I was hoping for around 3600 but it feel short.
The Tikka seems to like both the Hornady Vmax and Nosler Varmageddon bullets. The 60 Vmax and 55 grain Noslers shot about 1/4″ but the real surprise was the third group shooting 40 grain Hornady Vmax bullets into one hole. I have never put 3 shots in a group that small at 100 yards. And this 1 in 8″ twist is not supposed to shoot lightweight bullets well.
I did not expect such good accuracy with the 40 grain bullets. I only loaded 5 rounds to check the velocity which was 3800 fps. I know this is only a single group and could be a fluke. I will have to load more of the 40’s and get an average group size. The one thing that is constant is the HornadyVmax and GMX bullets shoot extremely well in this rifle.
| Weight/Bullet | Powder Charge | Velocity | Primer | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 Hornady Vmax | 37.0 AA2520 | 3800 | Fed LR | Tikka 1/4″ |
| 52 Hornady HP Match | 35.0 AA2230 | 3700 | Fed LR | Ruger Pred 1/2″ |
| 53 Nosler Varmgedon | 35.0 AA2230 | 3750 | Fed LR | Tikka 1/2″ |
| 55 Nosler Varmgedon | 38.5 CFE223 | 3600 | Fed LR | Tikka 1/4″ |
| 55 Nosler Varmgedon | 39 CFE223 | 3660 | Fed LR | Tikka 1/2″ |
| 55 Hornady GMX | 38.5 CFE223 | 3675 | Fed LR | Tikka 1/2″, Max Load |
| Fiochi 55 Vmax | factory | 3460 | Tikka 1/2″ | |
| Hornady 55 Vmax | factory Varmint Express | 3420 | Tikka 1/2″ | |
| 60 Hornady Vmax | 42.0 Superformance | 3390 | Fed LR | Tikka 1/2″ |
| 60 Hornady Vmax | 35.0 AA2520 | 3300 | Fed LR | Tikka 1/2″ |
| 60 Hornady Vmax | 36.0 AA2520 | 3500 | Fed LR | Tikka 1/2″ |
| 60 Hornady Vmax | 37.0 CFE223 | 3400 | Fed LR | Tikka 1/4″ |
| 60 Hornady Vmax | 33.5 IMR8208 | 3400 | Fed LR | Tikka 1″ |
Tikka 22-250 First Hunt
The Tikka 22-250 did not disappoint on the first hunt. This old sow appeared about sun down. I spotted her about 100 yards out from my stand and put a 55 grain Hornady GMX right between her eyes, and she dropped like a sack of rocks, DRT.
The GMX is a monolithic bullet, now replaced by the CX. Even though Hornady groups these bullets in with their other 55 grain bullets in their loading manual, the GMX bullets do create more pressure and higher velocity than lead core bullets. Max loads on these bullets should be at least 1 grain of powder less than lead core bullets.
Using the loads in the chart above I found more primer flattening with the GMX than the other lead core bullets, and velocity was almost 100 fps faster than the same load using 55 grain lead core bullets.
Tikka T3X Lite 22-250 Final Thoughts
The Tikka T3X in 22-250 is an exceptional rifle, and the faster twist rate doesn’t seem to hinder performance with lighter bullets. Whether you’re using factory ammo like Fiocchi’s 55-grain V-Max or crafting your own handloads, this rifle delivers impressive accuracy.
That said, the 22-250 remains a varmint round, not a deer hunting cartridge. While some might attempt to hunt deer with it, I strongly recommend stepping up to a .243 Winchester or .308 Winchester for ethical and effective results.
Overall, I’m thrilled with my Tikka T3X and look forward to further testing. The Hornady GMX bullets were a standout performer. So far the score is Tikka 1 and Hogs 0. Now it is time for Mr. Coyote.
Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 30mm Side Focus CDS-ZL Wind-Plex
Choosing the Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 CDS-ZL for My 22-250
For my 22-250, I decided to go with the Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 30mm CDS-ZL scope. It feels like the perfect pairing for this versatile cartridge. The scope features a Wind-Plex reticle and a side focus adjustment, ensuring a clear image even at long distances.
To mount the scope, I used the Leupold BackCountry Picatinny rail combined with Warne Maxima rings, creating a solid and reliable setup that holds zero under all conditions.
Why the VX-3HD Stands Out
One of the main reasons I chose this scope is the combination of the CDS (Custom Dial System) and the Wind-Plex reticle. For longer shots—what I consider “long” is anything over 200 yards—the CDS allows me to dial in the exact distance for pinpoint accuracy. Meanwhile, the Wind-Plex reticle, with its 1 MOA graduations, makes compensating for wind drift simple and intuitive.
I prefer this setup over a “Christmas tree” reticle, which can clutter the field of view and feel overwhelming. The Wind-Plex is straightforward and functional—just like me. As a hunter first, I appreciate that Leupold designs scopes that make it easy for non-target shooters to make confident first-shot hits.
Side Focus: A Must for Precision
One feature I can’t do without in a scope with magnification over 10x is a side focus or adjustable objective lens. The side focus adjustment on the VX-3HD makes a huge difference, delivering a crisp image while eliminating parallax issues.
Leupold offers very few hunting scopes with an adjustable objective lens in a 1-inch tube—there’s one 3-9x model, to my knowledge—but to get the side focus feature, you’ll typically need to move up to their 30mm scopes. For me, the VX-3HD hits the sweet spot: superior optics, side focus, and all the precision features I need in the field.
Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 30mm Key Features
- Very Clear Glass: Leupold’s elite High-Definition (HD) lenses provide sharp, vibrant images, even in low-light conditions. I was able to shoot tight groups even when the low sun was directly in my face.
- CDS-ZL Dial System: The Custom Dial System ZeroLock (CDS-ZL) eliminates guesswork for long-range shooting by allowing quick, accurate adjustments. Once set, the zero-lock function prevents unintentional changes. You get a free custom dial for you rifle/caliber when you buy the scope.
- Wind-Plex Reticle: The Wind-Plex reticle helps you compensate for wind drift without cluttering your field of view, making it perfect for coyote hunting or target shooting scenarios.
- Versatile Magnification: With a magnification range of 4.5-14x, this scope is ideal for my Tikka 22-250 from mid-range hunting to long-range precision shooting.
- Elite Durability: Assembled to withstand harsh conditions, the scope is fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof. It features Leupold’s Punisher-tested durability for consistent performance in any environment. And it has the Leupold life-time warranty.
In summary, the Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 CDS-ZL has proven to be a perfect match for my Tikka T3X in 22-250 Remington. With its intuitive features and robust design, it’s an excellent choice for hunters who value simplicity, precision, and reliability. I am an Amazon affiliate so if you order any of the products linked from this page, I may get a small commission.
GRS Fenris Stock For Tikka Rifles
The GRS Fenris stock offers excellent value for money, It is a very rigid fiberglass stock with a lot of features outlined below. It weighs 3 pounds so my overall weight with scope and sling for the Tikka Lite is about 9 pounds.
Best features are the push button LOF and cheek piece adjustments, quick detachable sling mounts on left side of the stock and the canted grip. The grip is not straight up and down. The bottom of the grip is canted to the right a little making it extremely comfortable to shoot.
Drawbacks are no easy way to attach an ARCA rail on bottom for use with a tripod and it is right hand only. I use a SUNWAYFOTO SM-76 Saddle Mount with a Leofoto LB-75 75mm Leveling Base when I want to use my tripod.
It has a fully adjustable stock with excellent ergonomics, and a super-strong body made with reinforced fiberglass. The stealth grey color blends with the black details, making the stock aesthetic and functional when merging into the surroundings. Designed with push-button adjustments to adjust to fit all body types and clothing setups or shooting positions. GRS Fenris provides the accuracy and confidence to hit your target. This heavy-hitter knocks out standard stocks with its gritty compositions and ergonomics. The honeycomb grip stands out in appearance and performance with a superior look and non-slip, vibration-dampening design.
I am an Amazon affiliate so I may get a small commission if you by one of the products above from Amazon.
Tikka T3X in 22-250 Remington Review Findings
My test show that the Tikka T3X in 22-250 Remington with 1:8″ Twist Barrel shoots very accurately with 53-55 grain bullets for both factory and handloaded ammo.
Garmin Xero C1 Pro Chronograph Used At Range
The Garmin Xero® C1 Pro is a compact and advanced chronograph designed to measure the velocities of various projectiles, including bullets, arrows, bolts, slugs, birdshot, paintballs, and airsoft BBs. Utilizing radar technology, it accurately records speeds ranging from 100 feet per second (fps) to 5,000 fps.
Key Features:
- Measurement Range: Capable of measuring projectile velocities from 100 fps to 5,000 fps, accommodating a diverse array of shooting activities.
- Small Size & Portable: Its small size allows it to fit conveniently in a back pocket, making it easy to transport to various shooting locations.
- Easy Setup: The device is straightforward to set up and operate; simply turn it on, position it appropriately, and shoot within approximately 15 inches of the chronograph.
- Integrated Display: Features an easy-to-read, backlit display for quick viewing of shot data.
- Smartphone App: When paired with a compatible smartphone via Bluetooth, users can utilize the ShotView™ app to record results, compare velocities, calculate extreme spreads, and track deviations.
- Rugged Design: Built to withstand various environmental conditions with an IPX7 water-resistant rating.
- Good Battery Life: Offers up to 6 hours of continuous use, providing ample time for range sessions.
Priced at an MSRP of $599.99.
History of the .22-250 Cartridge
The .22-250 Remington is one of the most popular cartridges among varmint hunters and long-range shooting enthusiasts. Known for its high velocity and flat trajectory, it has a storied history that reflects innovation in cartridge development. Let’s take a closer look at how this remarkable round came to be and the companies that manufacture ammunition for it today.
Origins and Development
The roots of the .22-250 cartridge trace back to the late 1930s when wildcatters began experimenting with a necked-down .250-3000 Savage case. Their goal was to create a high-velocity .22-caliber round that could deliver exceptional performance for varmint hunting. By reducing the case diameter to fit .22-caliber bullets and modifying the powder capacity, these pioneers achieved impressive muzzle velocities exceeding 4,000 feet per second (fps).
Wildcat cartridges were popular among shooters who wanted to push the boundaries of existing ammunition designs. The .22-250 gained a reputation for its incredible speed, accuracy, and effectiveness against small game and varmints such as coyotes, prairie dogs, and groundhogs. However, it remained a custom cartridge for several decades, requiring specialized reloading tools and expertise.
Official Adoption by Remington
In 1965, Remington Arms officially adopted the .22-250 and standardized it as the .22-250 Remington. This move brought the wildcat cartridge into the mainstream, making it widely available to hunters and shooters who previously lacked access to custom reloading equipment. The standardized version retained the exceptional performance of the wildcat while improving consistency and safety.
The .22-250 Remington quickly gained popularity as one of the fastest and flattest-shooting cartridges on the market. Its ability to deliver pinpoint accuracy at long distances made it a favorite among varmint hunters and target shooters alike. Even today, it remains one of the fastest commercially available .22-caliber rounds.
Modern Use and Appeal
The .22-250 is renowned for its versatility and remains a top choice for varmint hunting and recreational shooting. Its flat trajectory minimizes the need for holdover adjustments, while its high velocity ensures rapid expansion and energy transfer upon impact. This combination makes it ideal for ethically harvesting small to medium-sized game at extended ranges.
In addition to hunting, the .22-250 is a popular choice for precision shooting and competition. Its manageable recoil and exceptional accuracy make it a pleasure to shoot, even during extended sessions at the range.
Companies That Manufacture .22-250 Ammunition
Thanks to its enduring popularity, a wide variety of ammunition manufacturers produce .22-250 rounds to suit different shooting needs. Bullet weights of most factory ammunition range from 35-64 grins. Here are some of the notable companies:
- Remington – As the company that standardized the cartridge, Remington offers a range of .22-250 ammunition designed for hunting and target shooting. They offer 50-55 grain soft points and new Accutip-V ammo
- Winchester – Known for its high-quality ammunition, Winchester produces .22-250 rounds under its Super-X line in 45, 55 and 64 grains.
- Federal – Federal’s .22-250 offerings include options like the Varmint & Predator line, optimized for small game hunting with 50 and 55 grain bullets.
- Hornady – Hornady is renowned for its precision ammunition, including .22-250 loads featuring V-MAX and NTX bullets with 35, 50 and 55 grain bullets.
- Nosler – Specializing in premium ammunition, Nosler’s .22-250 rounds cater to hunters seeking maximum performance. They feature 50 and 55 Ballistic Tip Varmint and Varmageddon Bullets.
- Barnes – Barnes’ VOR-TX line includes 50 Grain Barnes Triple-Shock X Solid Hollow Point Lead Free .22-250 ammunition suitable for environmentally conscious hunters.
- Prvi Partizan (PPU) – This European manufacturer offers cost-effective .22-250 ammunition for a variety of applications with 50-55 grain soft point and hollow point bullets.
- Fiocchi – Field Dynamics 22-250 Remington Ammo 55 Grain Jacketed Soft Point or 55 Vmax bullets.
Conclusion
The .22-250 Remington is a testament to the ingenuity of early wildcatters and the enduring appeal of high-performance cartridges. From its wildcat origins to its status as a commercial favorite, the .22-250 has earned its place as one of the most respected and widely used rounds in the shooting world. With a variety of manufacturers producing ammunition for this cartridge, shooters have no shortage of options to meet their needs, whether they’re hunting varmints or honing their skills at the range.
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