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.

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u/Nero29gt Mar 09 '26

I use an XPR as my hunting rifle and it’s been great.

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u/ReturnOk7510 Mar 09 '26

I bought mine in 300 WSM to be my one big game rifle. It's a laser, I have a few hand loads that are easily sub-MOA, but even loaded down to 30-06 velocities, the cartridge is overkill for deer and black bear. I bought the American Gen II in 7mm-08 to complement it, and for my son to use since the stock can be shortened to 12" LOP by removing a spacer. Very happy with both. The Winchester is a bit more accurate, but the Ruger looks and feels like a better built rifle, and it takes AICS magazines out of the box.

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u/Nero29gt Mar 09 '26

My XPR is in .308 and I have a RAR gen 2 in 5.56. Both are awesome.

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u/ReturnOk7510 Mar 09 '26

Nice. I'm contemplating a ranch 2 in 5.56 as my next purchase, would be sexy with a LPVO on it.

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u/Nero29gt Mar 10 '26

For sure that would be nice. I have a vortex triumph HD on mine. Just a cheap scope but gets the job done.