Rifles Target product reviews

Tikka T3x Ace Review

Tikka’s Ace series of rifles combine a smooth T3x action, precision trigger and a highly adaptable chassis system, making these guns an outstanding choice for competitive and practical shooters. Bruce Potts has the details

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Time Well Spent
Time Well Spent July 10, 2025

The Ace Line-up

The Tikka Ace series offers rifles for a wide range of applications:

  • Ace Target – for PRS, benchrest and long-range precision

  • Ace Game – lighter and fluted, ideal for stalking or foxing

  • T1x-based rimfire versions – available in .22 LR and .17 HMR, perfect for training or vermin control

Tikka also offers a wide variety of accessories for full customisation.

For more on the T1x rimfire platform, see our Tikka T1x MTR review.

Tikka T3x Ace Action and Trigger

The T3x action is well-known for its smooth bolt operation and proven reliability. In the Ace Target, this action is paired with:

  • A hammer-forged, six-groove barrel

  • 11° target crown and 5/8 UNEF thread with protector

  • Barrel options in .223 Rem (1:8 twist), 6.5 Creedmoor, or .308 Win

  • Lengths of 24 or 26 inches

The finish is a matte Cerakote Tungsten, offering durability and a non-reflective look.

Bolt and Feeding

  • The bolt features spiral flutes and a semi-coned head for smoother cycling

  • A single extractor and plunger ejector are standard

  • Oversized bolt knob ensures confident grip in wet or gloved conditions

  • 20 MOA Picatinny rail (6.25in, 15-slot) sits atop the action

The Ace Target uses 10-shot steel CTR/Tac-style magazines, ideal for competition use. The magwell is modular and can be swapped depending on calibre and setup.

Adjustable Two-Stage Trigger

  • Factory adjustable from 2 to 4lb (1–2kg)

  • Our test sample broke consistently at 2lb 13oz

  • Distinct first and second stages give tactile control

  • Perfect for PRS, but still suitable for stalking

Safety is via a lever on the right side of the action. Forward for fire, rearward for safe.

Chassis System and Stock Design

The aluminium chassis is the Ace Target’s defining feature. It offers:

  • Free-floating barrel with a large, ventilated forend

  • Full-length Arca-Swiss RRS rail with integrated barricade stop

  • M-Lok slots on three sides of the forend for bipods and accessories

  • Optional internal and external weights for custom balance (200g per pair, up to seven pairs)

  • Rubber M-Lok rail covers for extra grip

Ergonomics

  • AR-style pistol grip with near-vertical angle

  • Optional triangular thumb rests, adjustable for left- or right-handed use

  • Cheekpiece: height-adjustable via thumbwheel (max 1.5in), quick release for bolt removal

  • Length of pull adjustable via spacers (13.75in standard)

  • Recoil pad is height and angle adjustable

  • Optional rear hook or bag rider for bench shooting – adjustable fore/aft and rotationally

This stock is built for adaptability and recoil control. Internal weight options (140g per pair, up to three pairs) add further precision for positional shooting.

Range Testing and Ammo Results

Testing was carried out with an Evolve moderator and a Kahles K624i scope. Accuracy was measured at 100 yards with steel targets set at 200, 250 and 400 yards.

Factory Ammunition Results:

Ammo Velocity (fps) Energy (ft-lb) Group Size (in)
Lapua Scenar OTM 167gr 2,671 2,646 0.68
Hornady Match BTHP 178gr 2,564 2,598 0.71
Federal Gold Medal 185gr 2,534 2,637 0.95
Hornady ELD Match 168gr 2,804 2,933 1.00
S&B FMJ 147gr 2,808 2,575 1.00
Norma Jaktmatch 150gr 2,653 2,346 1.39

The Lapua loads performed best, with reliable sub-MOA groups.

Field Results

  • 200yd crow target: 2in holdover, first round hit

  • 250yd Hun’s head: consistent sub-MOA with wind hold

  • 400yd steel: 11 clicks elevation, consistent hits with 2.5–3.5in groups

For full test footage, see Broadsword Ballistics on YouTube.

Verdict: Precision Meets Practicality

The Tikka T3x Ace Target offers excellent accuracy and modularity at a competitive price. With outstanding ergonomics and chassis adjustability, it’s a serious contender in the precision shooting world.

  • Prices start at £1,395 (rimfire), £1,595 (black), and £1,695 (Cerakote tested model)

  • Ideal for: PRS, long-range steel, or even foxing with the Ace Game

The Tikka Ace Target blends the best of traditional bolt-action reliability with modern modular precision.

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