As previously mentioned , you have the option for the higher magnification if req’d with the 6-18 power. Yes the 18 power will be unsteady but more then likely you will have some sort of rest for shooting. I have a 6-20 x 40 for my target / varmint rifle and find the power works very well. I’ve never used a dot reticle so I can’t comment on it. As for the rifle, I don’t have a Tikka but have heard lots of good things about Tikka. Good luck and enjoy.