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.
2
u/BlandRusk06 Mar 09 '26
I have heard that the Savages are the bottom of the barrel, but I haven't shot one before. To me, it felt quite cheaply made, which it probably is. I imagine you probably get what you pay for. If you want something cheap for the next couple of years, and then upgrade after that, you could go for the Savage. Otherwise you could buy a decent gun and use it forever.
I have the Winchester XPR, which I quite like, although I have heard good things about the Tikkas. I would also recommend looking at the Howa 1500 and the Ruger American, as they are both good quality starter rifles. I would also steer clear of the Mossberg starter rifle (the Patriot, I think?). My father has it and says it isn't great.