Pre-Garcia Sako Finnbear L61R 30-06 Sprg. 24.5″ Bolt Rifle C&R Case & Scope
SOLD FOR: $1460
LSB#: 220524AZ002
Make: Sako
Model: Finnbear L61R
Serial Number: 34871
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1965 C&R
Caliber: 30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Hinged Floorplate Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “FINNBEAR” and “MADE IN FINLAND”. The top of the barrel is marked “SAKO / Cal.30-06.” along with two finnish proof marks. The left side of the receiver is marked “L61R” and with the serial number, “No. 34871” and with two proof markings. The bottom of the bolt handle is hand scribed “871”. The floorplate is engraved with an elk’s head between floral motifs. There are floral motifs on the trigger guard as well.
Barrel Length: 24.5”
Sights/Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights. Equipped to the top of the receiver is a Redfield Illuminator scope with a wide angle view, 3-9x magnification, and a duplex reticle. The scope shows some scattered light wear with clear lenses. Overall, the scope rates in about Fine condition.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a one-piece skip-line checkered wood with a rose wood capped forend and pistol grip, fluted Monte Carlo comb with cheek-piece, sling swivel stud front and rear, and a brown Sako ventilated recoil pad. The grip cap has a white inlay in the shape of a bear’s head. There are some sparsely scattered light scratches, compressions, and draglines. Notably, there is a white scuff below the cheekpiece, a scattered cluster of scratches on the nose cap, and some light scuffs on the grip cap. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 5/8” from the trigger to the recoil pad. The pad shows moderate wear throughout yet remains pliable. The stock rates in about Very Good-Plus 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 83% of its metal finish. There is erosion on the bolt and pitting on the bolt handle. There is scattered light surface oxidation throughout the barrel and on the lower metal. The receiver shows a distinct plum hue. There are some scattered nicks and light scratches scattered about the metal surfaces. There is also light oxidation on the thru bolt. There is stubborn dried grease build up in some of the crevices. The screw heads show light use with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This rifle comes in a brown hard case with a Redfield scope manual and two brown leather slings.
Our Assessment: The Finnbear L61R, was in production from 1962 to 1973 and this example dates to around 1965. Sako Finnbear rifles are hefty, known for their fit, finish, and accuracy. And they have held their value very well. The Pre-Garcia Finnbear is a beautiful hunting rifle that can be passed down from generation to generation. This example is in Very Good condition with a respectable bore and a feather light trigger. It comes in a brown hard case with two leather slings and is equipped with a Redfield Illuminator scope. Please see our photos and good luck!