Sako Model AV L61R Mannlicher Carbine 20″ .375 H&H Magnum Bolt Action Rifle
SOLD FOR: $2,875.00
LSB#: LSB260416DH012
Make: Sako, imported by Stoeger
Model: AV L61R Finnbear Carbine
Serial Number: 588811
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1984-1985
Caliber: .375 H&H Magnum
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine, Hinged Floorplate
Barrel Length: 20?
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade, dovetailed to a serrated, ramped base, screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is a Williams adjustable U-notch sight on a base screwed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is dovetailed for Sako-pattern rings.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut full-stock with metal nosecap, semi-pistol grip, barrel band with sling swivel, sling swivel in the belly, monte carlo comb with cheekpiece, and black rubber Decelerator buttpad. The LOP measures 13 5/8? from the front of the trigger to th back of the buttpad, 12 3/4″ to the back of the wood, possibly indicating the stock was cut. The stock has a few scattered nicks and light scratches, most notable on the left below the receiver. The rear sling swivel has some oxidation. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original, the bolt is serial-matching.
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with sharp rifling. There is some scattered light erosion and stubborn fouling in the bore, mostly on the lands. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7+/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at some edges. Most of the balance is scuffing on the barrel band and on the barrel near the band. There are a few spots of minor oxidation on the floorplate. The action shows minor operational wear with light handling wear on the bolt knob. The markings are clear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with a strong slot. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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: None.
Our Assessment: The Sako AV L61R Finnbear Carbine represents the culmination of Sako’s classic magnum bolt action development, produced during a period when Finnish craftsmanship and traditional sporting rifle design were held to exceptionally high standards. The AV action was engineered to accommodate full-length magnum cartridges, and the Finnbear line became especially respected for its strength, smooth cycling, and refined execution. The carbine configuration, with its shortened barrel and full-length Mannlicher-style stock, gives this rifle a distinctive profile that balances elegance with purposeful field utility.
Chambered in .375 H&H Magnum, this rifle is built around one of the most enduring and versatile big game cartridges ever developed. Introduced in the early 20th century, the .375 H&H has long been regarded as a benchmark for reliability and performance on large and dangerous game, offering a balance of penetration, authority, and controllability. The 20 inch barrel, factory iron sights, and integral receiver dovetails reflect a design philosophy rooted in practical hunting use, particularly in environments where durability, handling, and dependable performance are paramount.
This example is in Very Good-plus overall condition, retaining the great majority of its original blued finish with evidence of responsible use. This Sako Finnbear Carbine is a nice example of a classic European magnum hunting rifle from Sako’s later production era. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
-Bud