Looking at the Hunter and Lite models.I was entertaining a Rem 700 but most say the quality is not there like my 1985 Rem 700 in 270.

Tikka is quality.

I have a T3 Lite in .308 that's never had a round down the barrel that I'd probably turn loose of if you're interested.

Not far from you if you're in Covington County.

I had a Tikka T3 .308. It was a great rifle. I have seen some horrible excuses for rifles in the past from Remington, but I have bought 3 model 700's - a 7mm-08 and 2 .308s - in the last 2 years that have been excellent in every area...well except the finish. Remington's matte bluing sux.

Very good guns, don't think you can beat them for the $. My son shoots a T3 lite, lefty in .308, does a good job.

If you like high quality plastic.

Yep and my high quality plastic Tikka T3 Compact 308 has had no issues. It's a very good gun for the money ($550). I wanted an inexpensive, light weight gun that I could use as my bush gun and this thing has worked out exactly as I had hoped.

No disrespect to you RHC, I certainly value your opinion more than most here on this forum when it comes to guns. But ... for the money, for an environment where your gun is gonna see a lot of wear and tear, this gun is a good deal

I have had two tikkas in 308 (LH).

Both were shooters...but no better than the two 700s I had.

I would look at the Ruger American as well. It is basically a Tikka clone.

I was about to say the same thing...I have a 30-06 American that actually shoots better than the Tikka I had for about $150 less

I don't hate the Tikka. They usually shoot very well and they do have decent triggers. I've nearly bought a super light from Sportsman's Warehouse a couple times. I was just sort of tongue in cheek complaining about the plastic.

They are accurate guns. Just know that even in .308, it is not a short action. They use the same action for .308 and .30-06 based cartridges.

Exactly, so you might as well go 30-06 unless you already own a 308 and want it for convenience.

For what your gonna use it for you might also concider the ruger american all weather model, I bought one in 308 for a brush gun and to hunt in the rain etc. Been very pleased with it. For the price you can add a decent scope and still be in the tikka price ramge