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.
4
u/Penguinbotxv Mar 09 '26
The savage is decent, tikka is just a direct upgrade and a huge upgrade in bolt smoothness. Here's some other recommendations you may like, howa m1500 think tikka but cheaper but 90% as good. Bergara, roughly tikka price similar to tikka but Spanish. CVA cascade which is just cheaper bergara. Ruger American or Ruger American predator. Also you can buy used from gunpost, save the money and buy glass and some rounds to practice.