r/canadaguns • u/Diamond_zT • Mar 09 '26
Buy recommendations First Hunting Rifle: cheap or expensive
Hi all,
I've passed my CFSC and am just waiting for the PAL. My first gun is going to be an SKS. After that, I'd like to get something optimal for deer hunting. Should I buy something inexpensive like a Savage Axis for its relatively low price and decent performance or should I jump right to a Tikka T3x Lite?
Obviously there's at least $400 of difference between the two. Would it make sense to get an Axis now and maybe get a Tikka later in life for x,y,z reason? I don't plan on being a avid hunter. Just looking to feed myself and father so maybe 1-3 deer a year. Also some recreational plinking of course. I don't have much money at the moment and won't for a couple of years (starting teachers college in September), but I don't mind making an investment.
Would picking up a used Tikka be something to consider?
Thank you all in advance for the advice. Lmk if any more information is required.
5
u/draftstone Mar 09 '26
Since you probably don't include long range hunting in your hunting description, a cheap rifle will do it. Get a rifle you'll use and practice a lot with AND either buy a lot of ammo to practice or buy also a 22lr and pratice with that 22lr.
A cheap rifle with someone experimented will be way better than an expensive one that you shoot only 10 rounds per year.
A savage Axis will still get at worst 2 MOA accuracy which would mean a shoot inside 4 inches at 200 yards. If you are able to shoot that rifle well, a 4 inch group at 200 yards will drop a deer dead right there since you'll have good shot placement. Closer than 200 yards, even more certain.