Originally Posted by Fraser
In terms of cartridge I'm thinking of either a .243 or a 6.5 Creedmoor.

Both good choices, plus there's plenty of factory ammo available once she moves away from home.


Originally Posted by Fraser
As for rifle, I'm seriously thinking about a Tikka T3X Hunter, Ruger 77 Hawkeye Hunter or a used Winchester 70 Super Grade.

I just bought a Tikka T3x Compact. Mine is a 308 but they also come in 223, 22-250, 243, 6.5 Creedmoor, and 7mm-08. The 20" barrel will be easy to handle in a stand or box blind. The LOP is 12.5" but they come with a spacer to bring the stock to full length. You can swap it into a wood stock once she stops growing.

A word of caution: the website says they're 6.2 pounds, but mine is more like 5.9 pounds. Recoil with full-power 165-grain loads will get your attention. When chambered for other cartridges, it will be heavier.


Okie John

Originally Posted by Brad
If Montana had a standing army, a 270 Win with Federal Blue Box 130's would be the standard issue.