Pre-Garcia Sako Finnbear L61R 7mm Remington Mag 24″ Bolt Action Rifle, C&R

SOLD FOR: $1551

LSB#: 220520MH004

Make: Sako

Model: Finnbear L61R

Serial Number: 63717

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1969 C&R

Caliber: 7mm Remington Magnum

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 / 7MM REM. MAG.” along with two finnish proof marks. The left side of the receiver is marked “L61R” and with the serial number, “No. 63717” and with two factory markings. The bottom of the bolt handle is hand scribed “717”. 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”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a hooded blade dovetailed atop a checkered ramped riser that is fixed to the barrel. There is no rear sight. Equipped to the top of the receiver via a two-piece Redfield rail and two rings is a Tasco optic with 3-9x magnification and an old rangefinding reticle. The scope shows scattered light wear but no significant imperfections. The lenses are clear. The scope rates in about Fine-Plus 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 with a padded brown leather sling attached, and a brown Sako ventilated recoil pad. The grip cap has a white inlay in the shape of a bear’s head. The wood shows a few light scratches on the cheek piece, a series of nicks at the front of the comb, and a few other sparsely scattered hardly noticeable marks throughout the wood. 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 light-moderate wear with light discoloration along the sides. The pad has slightly hardened but is mostly supple. 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 97% of its metal finish. The barrel shows some infrequently scattered faint marks. There is a minor nick on the trigger guard. There is some minor build up where surfaces meet. The receiver and bolt handle show a faint plum hue. The screw heads show light use with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine-Plus 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: The previously mentioned scope and sling are included as well as paperwork including a rifle schematic and ballistic info on Sake cartridges.

Our Assessment: The Finnbear L61R, was in production from 1962 to 1973. 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 Fine-Plus condition with a respectable bore and a feather light trigger. It also comes with an installed Tasco optic and a brown leather sling. Please see our photos and good luck!

Pre-Garcia Sako Finnbear L61R 7mm Remington Mag 24" Bolt Action Rifle, C&R
Pre-Garcia Sako Finnbear L61R 7mm Remington Mag 24″ Bolt Action Rifle, C&R