Finnish Sako Model L579 Forester .243 Winchester 23″ Bolt Rifle, 1974-1977
SOLD FOR: $1055
LSB#: 220325KG001
Make: Sako
Model: L579 Forester
Serial Number: 303423
Year of Manufacture: 1974-1977
Caliber: .243 Winchester
Action Type: Bolt Action with Hinged Floorplate Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “L579 No. 303423” and with two proof marks. The left side of the barrel is marked “FORESTER MADE IN FINLAND”. The top of the barrel at the chamber is marked “SAKO / Cal. .243”. The bottom of the bolt handle is marked “423”.
Barrel Length: 23”
Sights / Optics: The iron sights have been removed, leaving two drilled and tapped holes at the front and rear of the barrel. Equipped to the top of the grooved receiver via two rings is a Leupold Vari-X IIc optic with 3-9x magnification and a duplex reticle. The scope shows light wear with a notable scratch on the left side of the tube. The lenses are just a touch cloudy with a high level of visibility. Overall, the scope rates in about Fine condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The one-piece stock is checkered walnut with high luster lacquered finish. The stock has a pistol grip, Monte Carlo comb, cheekpiece and flat bottomed forend that tapers slightly towards the barrel. There is a black plastic buttplate on the butt with a white spacer and marked with a “SAKO” logo. There are sling swivels mounted in the belly and on the underside of the forend. The cheek piece shows grag marks with a few light scuffs through the finish. The right side of the forend also shows marks through the finish above the floor plate. There are a few other scattered less notable light draglines and minor scuffs. The checkering is generally sharp with little-to-no interruption. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The rear surface of the buttplate has light handling marks at the heel and toe and the serrations are sharp. The stock rates in about Very Good-Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling shows light wear. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The receiver and bolt handle show an even plum hue. The trigger guard shows a plum hue as well with little scuffs through the finish. The floor plate has some faint marks. There is some faint erosion on the rear of the bolt. The serrations on the safety and bolt release are sharp. The tang screws are sharp and the markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine overall condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. The safety is mounted at the right rear of the receiver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The previously mentioned scope is included.
Our Assessment: Sako first started making rifles with FN Mauser actions in 1946, and finally settled on three different length actions that changed designations over the years. The L57 medium action was used between 1957 and 1959, and replaced by the L579, which was used until the 1990s. This rifle is a vintage L579 Forester chambered in .243 Winchester and mounted with a Leupold Vari-X IIc scope. The rifle is in about Fine condition with about 96% of its metal finish remaining. The bore is bright with light wear in the rifling and no erosion. The .243 Winchester cartridge is based on a necked-down .308 Winchester and was intended as a varmint round, although it also makes an excellent cartridge for deer and for long range shots on antelope where its excellent ballistics come in handy. Add a sling to this rifle and you will have a well-made all-around rifle with a strong action that can be used on varmints on up to deer. Please see our photos and good luck!