Discussion Forums

Michael H

Hi folks,

I found the forum after searching similar experiences I've been having with my Tikka CTR in 260 Rem. I've made some minor modifications initially:

- Yo Dave Trigger Spring
- Thunderbeast Compact Brake
- Thunderbeast Ultra 7 6.5 Suppressor
- Vortex PST FFP 6-24x50mm scope
- Larue QD low rings

I'm an avid Handloader and with the set-up above, I typically net between a 0.15-0.3" group at 100 yards with Berger 140 Vlds and Lapua brass when shooting prone. I have a 6-9" Harris bipod up front and use a wiebad loop bag in the rear. I range to the higher level of the group size when I'm impatient or if I break my shooting position. Bad days net me 0.5" groups; needless to say I've been very satisfied with the rifle. I now have approx 500 rounds down the tube and it still holds groups as mentioned above.

I wanted to upgrade my stock to something more ergonomic, that had more options for sling attachments, and that would allow for a more comfortable shooting experience throughout the day. I tried two well known chassis options:

KRG X-Ray
MDT ESS

Note: both of these came with their own steel recoil lugs pre-pressed into them.

The KRG and the MDT are exhibiting the same issues: double grouping (2 shots in the same hole, another 2 shots same hole but 1.5" off, another shot somewhere else to complete a 1.5" group)

I tried 40, 45, 50, 51, 60 in-lbs and all show the same lackluster results. My best groups now are .66" with 3 shots, with another 2 shots opening the gun up to 1.25". When I re-install the original stock and bottom metal and turn the action screws back to their original positions (I marked them with a sharpie) I return to my original shooting performance, even though I'm less comfortable and consistent behind the rifle.

I've removed the chassis several times to confirm that I've appropriately seated the recoil lug and still no avail. The groups look like what I've experienced in the past when a recoil lug isn't seated, or if a scope mount is loose. I moved the scope to another rifle which grouped well to verify that the scope is not the culprit. I also confirmed 25 in-lb torque on the factory Tikka scope rail. I've also verified this behavior with 2 other shooters.

I'm out of ideas. Does anyone have any clue as to why my Tikka refuses to perform with a chassis installed? I'm all ears. Thanks for the help.

Michael