If you are in the market to buy new hunting weapons and torn between Browning X-Bolt vs Tikka T3X, I can understand your confusion.
Both of these weapons have a lot in common and they are both quite well-performing in competitions and hunting. Most importantly, they are quite similarly priced. This is what makes them an ideal choice for beginner hunters.
I know you are here to find the better gun between the two. I will try my best to help you find the right one for you. Without further ado, let’s get started.
Browning X-Bolt
The Browning X-Bolt is a bolt-action rifle made by Browning Arms Company. It was started in 2008 and is still available on the market.
It has several different versions that can chamber anything from a 300 WSM to the .308 Winchester. Depending on what range you are firing at and whether you are hunting or not, you are free to choose the caliber that suits you.
Some of the variants of this gun also come with a lot of accessories. Make sure to choose the right variant while purchasing.
Tikka T3X
The Tikka T3X is made by Sako. It’s a hunting rifle that is quite lightweight and versatile as well. Just like X-Bolt, this one also comes in different variants. The original T3 was released in 2003 and it’s still present on the market.
The T3X is also available in different models that have different calibers. From wooden stock to synthetic wood-like textured stock, Tikka got everything!
The most important thing about the gun is its ability to hunt! For the price, this is an amazing value hunting weapon.
Browning X-Bolt vs Tikka T3X – Key Differences
Now that we know a little bit about both guns and what kind of tasks they are capable of doing, let’s find out where their differences lie.
Construction
When it comes to longevity, the build quality of a gun is the most important part. Without having a durable stock or barrel, the gun will not last for a long time.
In terms of design, both of these guns look fantastic. But looks are always subjective. The X-Bolt is made out of high-quality synthetic materials. The stock and the barrel are durable enough to service you for a decade or two at least.
The same remains true for Tikka T3x as well. This is also an incredibly well-built gun with the option to choose a synthetic or walnut stock.
Accuracy
When it comes to hunting, accuracy is the most crucial part. In terms of accuracy, they are both identical. Even if you were to put them in a 1000-yard or beyond test, they both will have similar sub-MOA accuracy.
The standard deviation on both is extremely similar as well. It’s better to handle both guns first and decide which gun feels more ergonomic to you. Because you cannot choose based on the accuracy of them.
Handling and Ergonomics
If you are using big guns like these two, you will need to know whether they are good to handle and ergonomic or not. In terms of ergonomics, there are quite a few differences between the two.
The ambidextrous palm swell and textured grip on the X-Bolt provide an incredible shooting experience to both left-handed and right-handed users. It also features a low-profile bolt handle. It allows you to cycle through the shoot quickly and smoothly.
As for the Tikka, it’s also quite easy to handle. It features an ergonomic grip and the butt stock is incredibly well-made and durable. The Tikka has one advantage when it comes to the stock. It has plenty of different stock options. If you are feeling fancy, you can also opt for a modular stock from a third-party manufacturer.
Recoil
Both of these guns have way too similar recoil. If you have not experienced it yourself, you will not be able to difference between the two when it comes to recoil management. As both of these weapons are suitable for benchrest competitions and game hunting, Browning and Tikka made sure the guns were stable and didn’t have a monstrous recoil.
Even as a beginner, you won’t have a hard time controlling your recoil. If you are using a tripod, you won’t feel much of a muzzle rise either.
Speaking of muzzles, both of these guns have several muzzle device options. From flash hider to suppressor, you name it and they will give you that.
Browning X-Bolt and Tikka T3X – Similarities
As I said earlier, both of them have a lot of things in common. Starting from the action, they also tend to share a similar number of cartridge options.
They are insanely accurate at long-range and super easy to maintain as well. In terms of upgrades, there are several options available. From the muzzle device to the barrel, you can upgrade almost everything on both of them.
As for hunting, it’s suitable for small to big-game hunting. The things you want to do with these guns, you can do it.
Overall, from the performance point of view, they are identical guns.
Is Tikka T3X better than Browning X-Bolt?
Not necessarily. They are on par in terms of performance. The thing that would make Tikka T3X better is your preference. If you find yourself more comfortable with Tikka, then it’s a better gun for you.
Is Browning X-Bolt a good gun for hunting?
Absolutely! It’s a great gun for hunting. From varmints to small-game, you name it. If you want to stalk hunt long-range in a jungle, you can do that with the right sets of gear as well.
Closing Thoughts
Hopefully, this guide was able to help you understand both of these weapons a bit better and help you choose the right one for you. Honestly, it all comes down to your preference. I wish I could call one the outright best, but that’s simply not possible. It’s not logical either.
If I say one is better, the other users will prove me wrong. So, it all comes down to you. You will need to find out which gun is more comfortable for you. That’s why, I recommend you to visit your nearest gun shop and find out which one fits you.
That’s all for now, take care and don’t forget to have lots of fun!
