what is the red dot for on the Tikka t3?

[ihookem]

Just bought a Tikka t3 in .270. I am not sure what the lever behind the bolt is. I don't think it moves but not sure. I sighted it in today and have some comments. It is smooth. The barrel cleaned easily for a first cleaning. My son shot a 1" 5 shot  group @  50 yds. I shot a 3.25" 5 shot group at 200 yds. when the barrel was very hot. I fired  54 gr. IMR 4350 / 130 gr cor-loc. With this load it kicks like a mule, but what is that little lever behind the bolt. After 3 shots I had a head ache.

[chutesnreloads]

When the red dot is showing the action is cocked.

[ihookem]

One more question about the Tikka. When we take out a round of live ammo we have to take the safety off to pull back the bolt. Is it supposed to be that way? It seems unsafe like the old Rem. Model 700 that needed to take off the safety to open the bolt. Is there something wrong with my gun. It shoots good though. My son did less than 2" 5 shot @ 100yds yesterday. He likes it but kick hard. Thanks in advance.

[379 Peterbilt]

Nothing wrong with your gun, 'hookem. Mine's the same way.

[hoghunting]

With this load it kicks like a mule,

 Limbsaver makes a fitted recoil pad for the Tikka T3. Just pull the factory pad off and replace it. It's worth the money.