Sako Model L61R Finnbear .25-06 Rem. 24” Bolt Action Rifle 1962-1973 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,145.00
LSB#: LSB250718LT068
Make: Sako
Model: L61R Finnbear
Serial Number: 65912
Year of Manufacture: 1962-1973
Caliber: .25-06 Remington
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine, Hinged Floorplate
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “FINNBEAR MADE IN FINLAND”. The top of the barrel is marked “SAKO CAL. .25-06”, with a series of proofs. The left side of the receiver is marked “L61R NO. 65912”, with 2 proofs.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade, dovetailed to a ramp, screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is a U-notch leaf, on a sliding ramp adjustable for elevation, screwed to the barrel. The receiver is mounted with a Bushnell Banner 3-9×40 scope with a duplex reticle. The glass in the scope is clear. The scope shows light signs of wear, with only a couple of dings in the scopes finish. Overall, the scope rates in Fine to Excellent condition. The scope sits in 1” rings.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut stock, with a capped semi-pistol grip, fluted monte carlo comb with cheekpiece, vented rubber buttpad, and sling studs front and rear. The LOP measures 13 7/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock shows light signs of wear, with a few minor pressure dents and dings scattered throughout. The checkering is sharp, and the stock fits the barreled action tightly, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in Fine to Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some stubborn fouling towards the muzzle. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows minimal wear, with only a very small spot on the top of the barrel just under the scope’s objective lens, and on the muzzle, that show minor surface corrosion. Otherwise, the bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads on the rifle are sharp. The screw heads on the scope rings are heavily tooled. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine Condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. The trigger has a crisp and clean break. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with the scope as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: The Sako L61R Finnbear occupies a respected place in postwar Finnish sporting rifle production — a slim, well-balanced bolt action built for accuracy and refined handling. Designed and manufactured by Sako for the serious hunter, the Finnbear combined tight action fit, a long 24″ barrel and traditional sporting appointments to produce a rifle aimed at varmint and medium-game work with European-level finish and fit. This example, chambered in .25-06 Remington and fitted with a Bushnell Banner 3–9×40, presents the model’s classic proportions and correct period ergonomics in a way that will feel familiar to any shooter who appreciates mid-century Scandinavian craftsmanship.
Cosmetically the rifle is very attractive for its era, retaining about 98% of the original blued finish with only minimal wear and a couple of tiny spots of surface corrosion under the scope’s objective and at the muzzle. The deluxe skip-line walnut stock is tight to the action, checkering remains sharp, and overall the wood rates Fine to Excellent with only a few small pressure dents. Internally the bore presents bright with sharp rifling and rates 9/10 in this writer’s opinion due to some stubborn fouling toward the muzzle that should respond to a proper bore regimen. Mechanically the action cycles and locks up correctly and the trigger breaks crisp and clean; the scope is serviceable though the rings’ screw heads show heavy tooling that should be inspected and, if desired, replaced for torque uniformity.
For shooters and collectors alike this Finnbear is an appealing, usable example of Sako’s well-engineered rifles. With strong metal condition, an excellent stock, and a very good bore make it a fine candidate for regular field use or as a representative piece in a European-sporter collection. Buyers who prize immediate accuracy will want to address the muzzle fouling and check the scope-ring fitment, but beyond those minor service items this rifle will serve as a reliable, accurate .25-06 Remington rifle for long days in the field chasing predators and deer, or a recreational day at the range. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
