Building a lightweight long range tack driver suppressed is spot on for your setup your 6.5 PRC X Bolt and 300 PRC Ridgeline FFT are already heavy hitters, so a sub 8 lb suppressed rig in something flatter like .22 Creedmoor, .22 ARC, or short barreled 7mm Backcountry makes sense for extended shots without backpacking a tank.
.22 Creedmoor Flies flat hot high velocity with 80–90 gr bullets, great for precision steel varmints to medium game, but barrel life sucks 1,000–1,500 rounds hot before erosion. Better for lower volume shooting.
.22 ARC Newer, more efficient similar ballistics to Creed but milder on barrels 2,500–3,000 rounds, AR15 mag compatible if you ever want semi auto vibes, but needs a standard bolt face. Edges out for longevity suppressed fun.
7mm Backcountry short 18–20" barrel Killer for big game knockdown with magnum punch in a short, light package suppressed it's quiet and balanced, but recoil and barrel life hit harder than .22s.
Chassis stock Go MDT HNT26 carbon folding chassis $1,200–$1,600 with ARCA forend super light starts 26 oz, integral ARCA rail for tripod, folding for packability, and M-LOK slots for a Spartan bipod adapter up front. XLR Element is a close second integrated ARCA, carbon options.
Carbon barrel Proof Research or similar prefit for Tikka light, rigid, stays cool suppressed.
Tikka barrel swap DIY? Yes, fairly handy folks do it Tikka T3x prefit barrels e.g., Preferred, Proof, OMR carbon are shouldered drop ins no nut, headspace set. Tools needed barrel vise bushings, action wrench Wheeler external for removal, internal for install, torque wrench. Factory barrels are tight heat breaker bar often required, but prefits spin on easy at 80 ft lbs. Headspace gauges for safety. Not full gunsmith level, but watch YouTube guides e.g., DIY Tikka Barrel Swap many do it in garage with common tools. If unsure, send to a shop for $150–$300 install.
Build path Grab a used left hand Tikka T3x action $400–$600, prefit carbon barrel 18–22" threaded, MDT HNT26 folding ARCA chassis, suppressor ready brake mount. Total $2,000–$3,000 built light suppressed way cheaper than custom from scratch.
My lean .22 ARC in short barrel on Tikka MDT HNT26 flat, long barrel life, suppressed bliss, sub-7 lb suppressed. Test one if possible it'll complement your big bores perfectly. What distance game are you targeting most?
