Sako L61R Opinions

[ky40601]

I have the opportunity to purchase a SAKO L61R .30-06 for $800.00. I'm more a collector than a shooter/hunter but I do enjoy shooting when I get the chance.

I don't know anything about SAKO Rifles: L61 years of make, quality, accuracy, or collecting value, etc.

Any commend would be appreciate.

Thank you,

Jackie

 

[DRYHUMOR]

Here's a manual

http://www.sako.fi/pdf/manuals/Finnbear.pdf

for it.

And a forum

http://sakocollectors.lefora.com/

to browse.

They are good solid rifles. I no longer have my L61 in 7mm mag. I kind of miss it sometimes. I do have 2 TRG-S's to console me though.

 

[Slamfire]

According to Frank De Haas book on Bolt Action Rifles, the L61R was made from 1961 to 1972.

I have a Finnbear built on the later A3 action. Small differences between it and the L61R.

The Sako is simply the finest production rifle I have ever handled. In all details the Finns got it right.

Even though my Sako is a hunting rifle, it was capable of target grade accuracy out to 500 yards, the furthest distance I targeted it. The barrel and bedding were just right.

 

[tc54]

excellent rifles. a little too heavy for some, but extremely well built and known for superb accuracy. if you were buying this a collection piece (and it was in that condition), i suspect the seller would be asking more. do you know the "nra condition"? as mentioned, visit the sako collectors forum.

 

[win71]

They are good

I have 3 of the older Sako's;

SAKO L-461- 222
SAKO L-579- 243
SAKO Riihimaki- 222

They are very well made. Like the pre-64's, they are on the heavy side however they are not bulky.

 

[steven58]

I have a Sako Hunter A-V action .375 H&H Mag. The quality, fit and finish on this rifle is amazing! Bolt moves like oiled glass great adjustable trigger, superb accuracy and a very comfortable walnut stock with very nice figure.

You can't go wrong with a Sako, especially the 2 ingredient ones: steel + wood.

 

[Runningman]

Most collectors go after the pre Garcia Sakos with the 3rd bolt safety lug. The Garcia years are considered not as desirable as older or even post Garcia Sakos. Older Sako prices have not changed much in years so be careful about paying to much for one. Seems like they top out in the mid 90s.

 

[ky40601]

Thanks fellas for the great comments and advice. You all really helped me out.

Jackie