Pre-Ban Finnish Valmet Hunter Mod 88 223 Rem 18.5″ Semi-Auto AK-Style Rifle
SOLD FOR: $3,425.00
LSB#: LSB250726MN034
Make: Valmet
Model: 88 Hunter 223
Serial Number: 393878
Year of Manufacture: 1986
Caliber: .223 Remington
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, fed by .223 AK pattern magazines
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “393878 / CAL. 223 REM. / VALMET / TOURULAN TEHDAS / JYVDSKYLA”.
Barrel Length: 18 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a windage adjustable patridge blade, pinned to the gas block. The rear sight is a flip-up square-notch with two white dots on the right and left side, and a white aiming reference below the square notch, pinned to the receiver. The receiver is mounted with a grooved and notched quarter rib for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two-piece checkered walnut stock set, with semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, rubber buttpad, and a checkered forend. There is a sling ring on the belly of the buttstock, and a sling ring integral to the barrel & gas block. The LOP measures 13 3/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock shows light wear from storage. There are a few rub marks on the stocks from being stored in its original box throughout the years. Otherwise, there are no other notable signs of wear. The checkering is sharp and well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The stocks fit the frame tightly, with no play. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine to Excellent condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x 10rd .223 Rem. AK-style magazine, in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion, but there is some dust from storage in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows no notable wear other than a few superficial imperfections here and there throughout the metal surfaces from years in storage. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp, and the pins are unmarred. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. 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 its original serial number matching box, owner’s manual/paperwork, factory cleaning kit, and the magazine as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: The Valmet 88 Hunter is a tidy, Scandinavian take on the AK-style semi-automatic, built with quality fit and finish that sets it apart from more utilitarian counterparts. With period-correct walnut furniture and the stout Valmet receiver and gas system, this example combines classic styling with durable, shooter-friendly engineering — a rifle that will appeal to collectors of Finnish arms and shooters who appreciate a refined, retro hunting AK.
Chambered in .223 Remington, the cartridge is economical and flat-shooting for varmint work and general-purpose field use. Notable selling points on this 1986 example include the compact 18½” barrel and bright 10/10 bore, about 99% original bluing, sharp checkering on the walnut stock, a functioning flip-up rear sight and grooved receiver for optics, and the completeness of the package — original serial-number-matching box, manual, factory cleaning kit, and a 10-round AK-style magazine. These factors make the rifle attractive both as a collectible Finnish-made hunting rifle and as a ready-to-use shooter for those who prefer traditional wood furniture over synthetic stocked AK platforms.
Cosmetically and mechanically the rifle presents very well: only light storage rubs on the stocks, a few superficial finish imperfections, and clean, unmarred metalwork and fittings. The action and safety function correctly as confirmed during our inspection. The original box and paperwork increase desirability. Overall, this Valmet 88 Hunter .223 is a well-preserved example that balances collectible pedigree with practical utility. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
