DEFINATELY get the Tikka if you can. There is a great write-up on it in the November 2003 issue of Field and Stream. The only thing the writer, David E. Petzal, was disappointed in was that it didn' t come in a left handed version. He shot several different brands of factory ammo and reloads, in 130, 140, and 150 grains. His " average!!!" group size was .880" (3 shots at 100 yards) and the smallest group was .330" !!!!! All for a rifle that retails for around $600.00. The caliber of his rifle is the standard .270 Winchester.

I have a Whitetail Hunter in .270 Win that is stainless with laminated stock. It is sweet. I haven' t been able to spend any time at the range yet but I' m sure I won' t be disappointed.

I' d go with whatever stock you prefer. If you hunt in humid or damp conditions alot, I' d go with synthetic though. Will eliminate the chances of the wood stock warping due to moisture and changing points of impact.