A laminated stock holds its shape in rain and cold, and stainless steel shrugs off the damp. The Tikka T3x Laminated is chambered in .270 Winchester Short Magnum, with a 22 inch barrel and a three-round magazine.

The .270 WSM packs magnum speed into a short action. It shoots flat, hits hard and suits mountain deer, elk and open-country hunting. For a North Carolina hunter, it is more reach than a Piedmont whitetail needs, but it makes sense for trips to the West or for anyone who likes a fast, flat cartridge.

Laminated wood is made of thin layers of wood bonded together, which makes it stiff and stable. It looks good, and it is heavier than a synthetic stock, which can help steady your aim. The T3x action brings a smooth bolt and a crisp trigger that Tikka is known for, and many hunters call it the best value in a bolt gun.

Add a good scope and a sling and you have a rifle that will last for decades. Expect some muzzle blast from a short-magnum round. It ships to a North Carolina FFL dealer, where the background check is completed.