Finnish Sako L61R Finnbear .375 H&H mag 24″ Bolt Action Rifle, 1974 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,346.00
LSB#: LSB260406SB053
Make: Sako; Finland.
Model: L61R Finnbear
Serial Number: 523738
Year of Manufacture: 1974, C&R.
Caliber: .375 H&H Magnum
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine, Hinged Floorplate.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “SAKO / Cal. .375 Mag.”. The left side of the barrel is marked “FINNBEAR MADE IN FINLAND”. The left side of the receiver is marked “L61R”, along with the serial number and two proof marks.
Barrel Length: 24″. 25 1/2″ with attached compensator. The compensator does not appear to be removable. Unknown thread pitch.
Sights / Optics: The front sight has been removed and the screw holes have been filled. The rear sight has also been removed, and the screw holes have been filled. The top of the receiver is mounted with 30mm scope rings for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut stock, with a semi-pistol grip, fluted monte carlo comb with cheekpiece, vented brown rubber Sako buttpad, a checkered forend, and sling studs front and rear, with a sling ring on the rear sling stud. The LOP measures 13 7/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock shows light wear, with a few light scratches and dings scattered throughout. The checkering is mostly well defined, however, there are a few dings in the checkering on the wrist and forend. There is thinning finish on the stock, on the bottom left edge. Otherwise, the finish on the stock is largely intact. The stock fits tightly to the barreled action, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good 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 overall metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with a few light scratches and dings scattered throughout all of the metal surfaces. There is some light finish wear and light oxidation on the bolt knob, light finish wear on the back of the bolt, and light operational wear on the bolt body. The finish is largely intact, otherwise. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are tooled, but retain serviceable slots. Overall, this rifle rates in Very 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 the scope rings as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: The Sako L61R Finnbear represents the golden era of Finnish sporting rifles, renowned for precision machining, smooth bolt travel, and elegant stock lines. By 1974, the L61R had firmly established itself as one of the premier long-action hunting rifles in the world. Chambered in .375 H&H Magnum, a cartridge introduced in 1912 and still regarded as one of the most versatile dangerous game calibers ever developed, this rifle embodies classic big game capability. The .375 H&H’s belted case design and balanced ballistics have made it a mainstay for African plains game and heavy North American game alike. This example also features an attached compensator extending overall barrel length to 25 1/2 inches, reflecting a period approach to recoil management on powerful magnum rifles.
This rifle retains approximately 95 percent of its original blued finish, with light handling wear and minor oxidation noted on the bolt knob and bolt body. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates 10 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion. The walnut stock remains in Very Good condition with strong checkering and only light scattered handling marks, fitting tightly to the action. Factory iron sights have been removed and the holes filled, and the receiver is fitted with 30mm rings for optics. The action and safety function correctly. Overall, this is a solid and desirable mid-1970s Finnbear in one of the most respected big game chamberings ever produced. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.