Sako Pre-Garcia Finnbear L61R 7mm Rem Mag 24″ Bolt Action Rifle, 1962-1973
SOLD FOR: $1376.99
LSB#: 210330DP03
Make: Sako
Model: Finnbear L 61 R
Serial Number: 75896
Year of Manufacture: 1962-1973
Caliber: 7mm Rem. Mag.
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Hinged Floorplate Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “FINNBEAR MADE IN FINLAND”. The top of the barrel is marked “SAKO / 7MM REM.MAG.”. The left side of the barrel at the receiver is marked with two factory stamps. The left side of the receiver is marked “L61R No. 75896” and with two factory markings. The bottom of the bolt handle is hand scribed “896”.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights. Equipped to the top of the receiver is a two-piece weaver rail and two 1” diameter weaver rings for mounting a scope (none included).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is checkered wood sporting custom artwork that depicts two bighorn sheep on the left side of the forearm and rear left of the buttstock, a mountain goat on the right side of the forearm and right of the buttstock, and a mountain lion on the cheek piece. The stock features a pistol grip, monte carlo comb, aforementioned cheek piece, and a brown ventilated Sako recoil pad. The most notable defect is a cluster of draglines on the left of the forearm just ahead of the through bolt. Other imperfections include some scattered hardly notable dings. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 13 ¾” from the trigger to the rubber recoil pad. The recoil pad is soft and pliable. The stock rates in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light thinning at the muzzle with some infrequently scattered fine scratches on the barrel. The underside of the barrel shows a small scrape through the finish. The receiver has taken on a pleasant plum hue. The screw heads show light use with strong slots. The markings are crisp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine-Plus overall condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is light and crisp. We did not fire this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Pre-Garcia Sakos are the standard that all other Sakos are still trying to reach. Pre-Garcia Sakos are said to be the best rifles you can buy, with ultra-smooth actions and great barrels. Once Sako was acquired by Garcia, quality suffered and they have yet to get back to the glory of the Pre-Garcia days. The collectable value of these rifles has also increased as more and more gun enthusiasts recognize the quality of craftsmanship and accuracy of these rifles. They just don’t make them like they used to. Please see our photos and good luck!