Im thinking about getting anoter gun and was wondering if its worth the extra money to buy the sako A7 or 85 over the Tikka T3? what are your thoughts?

I would buy a Ruger and very good scope for the cost of a Sako.

Of the options you mentioned I'd go A7

Dober

You know it brother!.. Sakos suck!!

You can get a Ruger and a good scope for $565?

Tell me where please.

That's what a A7 costs these days.

idaho,
I'd stick with the Tikka T3. I don't care for the two piece A7 and Sako safety and the two step magazine removal. The A7's around here are $775 and very few have been sold when the Tikka T3 SS is $600.
Good luck.

GB has stainless A7's for the price I quoted.

For the same price as the T3 I'd surely take the A7.

Yep, the A7's on GB are $565 for 30-06 and 270. The 270 WSM and 300 WSM are less than $600.

is their anything that the A7 and 85 have that the Tikka doesnt that makes them better?

i have several sakos ( but more remingtons) ,they are worth what i paid for them. buy a good gun they last a long long time

That's like putting expensive tires on a Yugo.

I'm a pretty big Tikka T3 fan - have run a few - and they are crazy accurate with most everything (least finicky rifle I've ever messed with), light, well balanced with good beef in the barrel, slick action, superb Sako trigger adjustable for weight with an allen wrench without even removing the stock (and no creep - break like glass), barrels are Sako also - and accuracy shows it. They're cheap and they just shoot.

A7 features that Tikka doesn't have:
1. A lever release for unloading while on safety;
2. A magazine release that requires the magazine be depressed before it will release - to prevent "magazine AD"...grin.
3. A true short action rather than a LA with a bolt stop like the T3.
4. A7 has most all the Tikka features above except the proven accuracy - although they look very promising so far.

Both have some plastic and have tupperware stocks (but the T3's and A7' I've run/heard of still shoot like they have been glass and pillar bedded into a trued action with a custom barrel screwed on by the best in the business).

Right now, I'd gamble on an A7 over a T3 if I can buy it in stainless for the $565 + incidentals...

DJ

They share barrels but the A7 comes in 2 different action sizes whereas the the T3 has only 1 action size. The A7 has a metal bolt shroud whereas the T3 has a plastic one. The A7 has metal feed lips on the magazine whereas the T3 has plastic.
The T3 has a very stiff action because of the small ejection port which can be both a good thing and a bad thing.
Given the prices of the A7 and the T3 I think the A7 is a better value.

DJ beat me by 48 seconds and he provided some info I didn't know about.

I just paid $594.00 for a new Sako A7 in 300 WSM.

I absolutely love the rifle. Unlike the Tikka you can feed it from the top.

The safety system is the best. You can lock the bolt up if you want.

The rifle is lightweight and has to hell and back durability.

Superior to the Tikka in every way.

Comes with a 5 shot moa guarantee from the factory.

It IS my go to elk rifle.

All good - you filled some gaps I left, as well.

Maybe between us, we pretty well covered it.

I will add that I've run an A7 in 243 and it has shot everything like a Tikka so far (which is a high praise, indeed!)

Have yet to see a report of an A7 that wouldn't shoot...but I'm not sure I've ever seen a report of a T3 that wouldn't shoot, either - and there's a bazillion Tikkas out there. The A7's are still the new kid, so we'll see.

I do kinda like having "Sako" on the barrel, though, even if it's just a poor man's version...grin.

DJ

No doubts about the T3's shooting but the A7 is no new kid on the block either. It's a SAKO 75 that's been around longer than the T3.

Never heard of a Sako that didn't shoot and don't see any other manufactures that will
guarantee 5 shots moa.

With buys like the one I got I'll never own another Remington in the sporter class and I'm a Remslut.

Sure wish they made the A7 in a LH version!

They are smokin' deals right now. It's really tempting me to buy another rifle I don't need, but since when has that stopped me? Grin...

I thought the action on the A7 was a little different than the 75? Or is it just like it and a little different from the 85?

Good point though - the Tikka and A7 both sport a lot of the best parts of the proven old Sako 75.

DJ

You right handers piss me off!

Does save me a ton of cash at the gunstore and gunshows though!

I think this is wrong, the A7 also has a plastic bolt shroud................VaHillbilly.

Believe Me I've had a few Sako rifles over the years that would not live up to the 5 shot MOA guarantee, so don't put a lot of stock in this claim,hell I think even Thompson Center is making a similar claim with their fugly Icon rifle and they even supply a target from the factory to prove it, (something else Sako doesn't do) the A7 guarantee is not 5 shots it is a 3 shot MOA guarantee......................VaHillbilly.

I view the T3 action more for bench work given you can't get your fingers in it as easy. The tighter ejection port makes it more accurate - which I think the T3 wins.

The Sako 85 is 1300+ and is built tough, so is the 75 - metal magazines, and all metal. I see if more of a well built big game rifle.

The A7 is the in the middle compromise. without the dumb sako ring mounts but the big game action, and a good amount of the T3 recoil lug features. So if you want a cost effective production rifle the A7 is a good one.

NOW the accuracy thing - Sako's are throated differently than any other rifle I've had. And they definitely like a specific bullet weight. Try to make them shoot something they don't like and you'll have the VaHillbilly experience mentions above. And in fact that's the first thing the Sako Rep will tell you if you ask him what weights your rifle might like.

Spot

If Sako knows what bullet weights their rifles like, why don't they publish it? It would make it much simpler.

SamOlson and others who own the A7 claim that the A7 has a metal shroud coated in plastic. This is unlike the 100% plastic T3 shroud.

https://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthread.../Since_We_re_An_Honest_bunch#Post3922066

Yeah, the A7 shroud is some sort of metal covered by some sort of hard plastic, that should clear things right up.....(grin)


I've never owned a T3 so I can't comment on them but I do have an 85 and A7(both in 300 WSM).

The biggest difference I've found between the two is how much slimmer the A7 is when carried in your hand. Given the A7 has a single stack mag unlike the staggered version in the 85, it is a full .3" thinner(measured at the front action screw). That doesn't sound like much but you really notice it when carrying the rifle for more than 5 minutes. The A7 also feeds slicker than the 85.

My A7 is also lighter but that's partly because I have a larger scope and Optilocks on the 85.
All up ready to hunt the A7 weighs 7.6lbs., while the 85 weighs about a pound more.

Accuracy-wise they are both 100% equal.
.5-1MOA out to 400-500 yards is the norm with the right bullet/load.
FWIW, both rifles shoot the EXACT same 180 Partition/R17 load pretty damn well which will really make things simple this Fall.

Verdict, save the money and get an A7. IMHO, it's a better (hunting)rifle regardless of price.

That said the 85 is still a fine rifle and has a 'nicer' action and didn't require bedding where as I wish the A7 has less plastic and did require bedding.

I agree with nsaqam - when the A7 comes out in left-hand, I will consider it, but until then, it looks like the Tikka is the answer for the left-hand shooter. The problem is that even if the A7 is made in a left-hand, Beretta probably won't import it. The left-hand T3 is made in all the same calibers that the right-hand model is made in, but Beretta refuses to import them all to the US. Why they will import the 6.5x55 and 338 Federal, as well as other calibers, to Canada but not the US, is a mystery to me, which Beretta has refused to answer every time I have asked. While I love the Tikka and Sako rifles, and the Beretta shotguns, Beretta's customer service leaves a lot to be desired.

Normally, The Sako 85 SS is out of my price range. But i picked one up NIB from a fellow member here for $725.00 in .338 Federal and I love this rifle.

Sako A7 SS in 30-06 NIB right now on GB for $565.00

Bottom line is that there are some great deals around right now on some Sako's. And IMHO anyway, it's very hard to beat their quality. YMMV

CLB

I got that nsaqam, It has a plastic shroud with a metal liner, a step above the Tikka, I'm really considering trying an A7 SS in 30.06, at $565.00 I don't think anything else can compete, certainly not in this price range.............VaHillbilly.

No question Va, when I saw the price you can get a new A7 for now I almost flipped.

I've seen some T3's selling for more than $565!

When there was several hundred dollars difference between the A7 and the T3 it was kinda hard to make the case for the A7.

Not anymore!

I posted this review on another A7 thread and I like how he compares it to the T3 and the 75/85:

http://www.biggamehunt.net/sections/Hunting_Gear_and_Products/Sako-A7-Review-09090804.html

Not that it matters but the 85 and A7 come with 5 shot guarantees and if I remember right the 75 came with a 3 shot guarantee.

brent, the 5 shot guarantee is news to Me on the A7,thanks but I don't put a lot of stock in any guarantee that doesn't include a factory shot target as proof.......I did notice that on Beretta's site that the A7's were listed as the new A7 ST model (ST for soft touch), so I'd say some distributors got some good deals on last year model rifles and the low $565.00 price won't last long, I better make My mind up soon ...............VaHillbilly.

I got Cabelas flier yesterday that had A7's on sale from $850 to $699. Prices seem to be all over the map or there has been a significant increase.

I think VaHillbilly got it right above.

These sub $600 A7's are probably last years models and they will be going away soon.

You folks who are thinking T3 or A7 right now better act quickly if you prefer the A7.

FWIW the Sako M-75's had a 5-shot guarantee.

What their guarantee basically says is that it has to shoot a 5 shot MOA group before it leaves the factory, yes it would certainly be nice if they would give the load and group with the gun but they don't. But in any event if your M-75/85/A-7 isn't shooting MOA or better you need to find the load it likes or work on your shooting skills, it's not the rifle if it doesn't...................................DJ

I don't put a lot of stock in it either but with bullet tech today I think a lot of bolt action manufactures could get away with a guarantee...at least a 3 shot one.

I have been watching the guy on Gunbroker since the first of January and at that point he had a boatload of A7's for sale so you are probably right on last year's models. I'm sure he got a bulk purchase deal from Beretta.

I'm sure Sako uses their own ammunition for the accuracy check; too bad we can't get it in the states. I am currently working up a load for my 22-250 A7 and so far my best 3 shot group is 5/8" and I believe it will do better.

I really want to buy another one but can't justify it right now....

A7 5 Shot

Brents99, Trust me on this, you'll never own as many guns as you really want if you have to JUSTIFY each one!

Now I've managed to come up with some pretty lame EXCUSES for buying guns but please don't make me JUSTIFY a Gun purchase, if I did I'd probably only have a 22 rifle a 12 guage pump and a 30-06 Rifle, what fun would that be? ..................DJ

I shot my A7 again this morning and it continues to be very consistent. Shoots way better than I can.

The Sako Guarantee, and you can throw in Weatherby also for that matter, is no more than words on paper, and not even a big deal, any relaoder with time and minimal skill should be able to make all but the worst examples of riflery shoot MOA, Rifles today are made using CNC machines that leave tolerances that rifle makers could only dream of back in the day....I think we should get over these guarantees, they aren't a big deal.................VaHillbilly.

Exactly, Hillbilly...
(grin)


It takes a little experimentation to wring out the potential.

That's the advantage of reloading Sam, plus it is pretty fun...............VaHillbilly.

Remington 700

Um.......................what about the 700?

I've had a couple of Tikkas and now have an A7. Simply had to try one especially when the price dropped to that of a Tikka. There are some advantages over the Tikka but nothing that you couldn't live with or without. I've also had a Sako 75. Looks wise the 75 was the cats a$$! One of the prettiest rifles ever made IMO. However shooting all of them there isn't much difference. All are picky looking for the right load. The A7 does come with a 5 shot MOA guarantee and the Tikka comes with the 3 shot MOA. And none of them put a target in to prove it... But once you find the right load they'll shoot just fine. Matter of what you can afford and the look or feel that you want. The A7 does allow you to drop the trigger to 2# very easily and that to me was a nice feature. Plus it's a good feeling trigger. Also like the ability to open the bolt while on safety like the 75 does.

Saw the Icon mentioned earlier, have 2 and both came with targets and with the ammo the target was shot with. Both exceeded the factory target right out of the box. They're heavier than the Tikka and A7s, but they are by far the easiest to shoot gun that I've ever owned. And that's saying something..... And they are the least pickiest with almost everything you put in them shooting an inch or better. Worst load I've had in one was about 1.5". I've had much worse in rifles made by Sako. Plus the Icon tends to shoot most loads to the same spot - something I've rarely seen in anybody's gun. I have one 243 shooting 3 different loads, from different manufacturers within an inch of each other at 100. The 4th load is 2" higher but dead on otherwise. Dam good rifles.. and the weather shield is probably the best finish out today. Tells you that it requires no oiling. Just wipe it off if it gets wet or dirty.

Hillbilly go get ya a stainless A7! Before the prices go up, you won't regret it. I won't be selling my A7 any time soon either. Good rifle. Also as someone pointed out it carries good. Just feels good in your hands. Might have mine bedded though to see if I can get it even tighter..and then magnaported... just cause there's always room for improvement!

Any of those mentioned will do a fine job. A lot of it is what feels good to you.

Good point.....

The A7 SS has to be without doubt the best buy in a hunting rifle going right now, but I think it's and opportunity that won't last very long.....................VaHillbilly.

If referring to a out of the box 700 vs. Sako, then I'd say the 700 is always in the rear view mirror.

Each one is great. Just a step up from one another.

True, but at least Sako has the nads to put it on paper and I'll bet they state that guarantee using factory ammo, not handloading. 5 shots not 3 says they are confident in their product that sports a sporter weight barrel.

btw, just bought another Sako A7 for my oldest son.
Just to good to pass up. I'm impressed with them.

SU-how have they been shooting for you? I know that Sam's has been perking well for him.

I've been tossing around the idea of getting one in 22/250 for my grandson and another young man from my church who's starting hunting this year to use.

Thx
Dober

Mark, just received the one and the other one is on it's way, so no chance to shoot yet.

Also, been trying to decide on which ring and mount system to use. Talley's or Leupold QR's or PRW's that would fit on the current mounts.

as a side note
I'm buying some 168 E Tips to compare to 168 TSX when I get enough phone books.
The E tip with a .5 BC has a lot of going for it at 3,100.



For those who are interested.

I did the switcherony on recoil pads for the A7. Very easy swap out. Takes 1 minutes, i put some kroil on the screws.

The rifle weighs out at 6 lbs even. A little more pad for the 300's recoil. I loads em good and hot.

Off with the old.


On with the new.

After reading the thread there are a few differences I have not seen mentioned. I own both (T3 x 2, and 1 A7)and I can say with I like the A7 just a bit better. The tikka has more plastic, the A7 less, and the 85 even less.

The bolt handle on the T3 goes into a slot that helps keep the bolt together. The A7'a bolt handle is - well - bolted on. Disassembly of the Tikka bolt is a bit tickier than an A7. The A7 you just rotate the shroud with the included tool and it comes apart. Literally, nothing remains captured. The spring, pin, shroud, and cocking indicator are all loose. Very easy to reassemble as well. I kinda dig that.

The other differences are all covered well. However, as I am finding out the rings with the tikka have a tendancy to slip under repeated firings. I shoot alot and so I may notice it more than some. So even though they are included I find I will still be having to buy either rings and bases, or rings,or talley lightweights . Having to buy rings for the A7 - any weaver compatible - not too hard, is not really extra.

Hopefully I will be able to get out and shoot my A7 soon. I broke my leg and have some screws in my ankle right now. Doc says I should be good by hunting season for sure though !!!!

A7 gets my vote - price, features, ease of set up - BAM.

SC

Agree with ya on those Tikka rings. Not my cup of tea at all. First set I ever tried just didn't feel right. Put a set of Weaver bases on it and never had a problem. Did the same to the second Tikka.. A7 kept it simple and came with them. Good move on their part. Only thing they could have done better is machine them into the receiver. Now that would have been nice.

Also now with the A7 being able to be bought for less than a new Tikka it kind of makes it an easy decision.

Someone mentioned the new model having the soft touch stock and that possibly the dealer got the remaining ones for a deal. Nothing wrong with that. Did the same thing last year on some Hitachi tools. They changed one little feature and liquidated the old ones for less than half price. They work just fine for a lot less $$! Hard to walk away from a really good deal.

Sounds like you have talked yourself into buying one....

If you get one in .30-06' be sure to let us know how it shoots and kicks.

If I do get one Brent I'll let ya know how it shoots, I think it would make a fun new toy.................VaHillbilly.