Finnish Sako L46 Riihimaki .222 Rem. 24″ Bolt Action Rifle 1950-1961 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,200.00
LSB#: LSB251203TW004
Make: Sako; Finland.
Model: L46 Riihimaki
Serial Number: 26747
Year of Manufacture: 1950-1961
Caliber: .222 Remington
Action Type: Bolt Action, fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel, just forward of the receiver, is marked “Cal. .222”, along with a couple of proof marks. The left side of the receiver is marked “SAKO Riihimaki No. 26747”, along with a couple of proof marks. The right side of the receiver is marked “MADE IN FINLAND”.
Barrel Length: 24″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded black blade, dovetailed to a serrated ramp, screwed to the barrel. There is no rear sight. The top of the receiver is mounted with a German Supra 6×52 scope with a fine crosshair reticle. The glass in the scope is clear. The scope shows light wear, with light freckling of surface corrosion on the scope’s finish. Overall, the scope rates in Good condition. The scope is mounted on a one-piece Redfield scope base, and sits in 1″ rings.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut Mannlicher stock, with a capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb with cheekpiece, serrated plastic Sako buttplate, a banded checkered forend, and sling rings front and rear. The LOP measures 13 3/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock shows light wear, with scattered scratches, dings, and compressions throughout. The stock’s finish is largely intact, and the stock fits tightly to the barreled action, with no play. The checkering is well defined, and the wood grain is attractive. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x 3rd factory magazine, in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows minor freckling of surface corrosion on the right side of the barrel, light operational wear on the bolt, and light thinning of the finish on the bolt knob. Otherwise, the bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are tooled, but retain strong and serviceable slots. Overall, this rifle rates in Good 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, along with the scope and the magazine as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: The Finnish Sako L46 Riihimaki represents the earliest generation of Sako’s small-action bolt rifles, produced in the years following World War II at the Riihimaki factory. Manufactured between 1950 and 1961, the L46 established Sako’s reputation for precision machining, controlled-feed reliability, and refined sporting aesthetics. As a Curio and Relic eligible rifle, this example reflects the formative era of Sako’s export success, when Finnish craftsmanship began earning international recognition among varmint and sporting rifle enthusiasts.
Chambered in .222 Remington, the L46 is paired with one of the most influential small-caliber centerfire cartridges of the mid-20th century. Introduced in 1950, the .222 Remington quickly gained acclaim for its inherent accuracy and mild recoil, becoming a benchmark in varmint shooting and early benchrest competition. The 24 inch barrel complements the cartridge’s efficient ballistic profile, while the Mannlicher-style stock and mounted German Supra 6×52 scope give the rifle a distinctly European sporting character.
This example presents in good overall condition, retaining the majority of its original blued finish with light freckling and operational wear consistent with age. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling, and the Mannlicher walnut stock shows honest handling marks while remaining structurally sound and well fitted. Accompanied by its original matching box and factory magazine, this Sako L46 Riihimaki stands as a classic early-production Finnish bolt-action rifle chambered in one of the most respected varmint cartridges of its time. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.
