Finnish Sako Model L461 .222 Remington 24” Bolt Action Rifle 1961-1973 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,125.00
LSB#: LSB250724TW007
Make: Sako
Model: L461
Serial Number: 57302
Year of Manufacture: 1961-1973
Caliber: .222 Remington
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine, Hinged Floorplate
Markings: The top of the barrel, at the chamber, is marked “CAL. .222”, with two proof marks. The right side of the barrel is marked “BOFORS STEEL”. The left side of the receiver is marked “L461 NO. 57302”, with two proof marks.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a black blade, dovetailed to a serrated ramp, screwed to the barrel. There is no rear sight. The receiver is mounted with a two-piece Weaver style scope base for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut, with capped semi-pistol grip, fluted monte carlo comb, serrated plastic buttplate, and sling rings front and rear. The LOP measures 13 5/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock shows light wear, with scattered scratches, dents, and dings throughout. There is some finish loss on the bottom left side of the stock, just in front of the floor plate. There is some finish chipping off of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. The stock fits the barreled action tightly, with no play. Overall, the stock rates in Good to 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 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operational wear on the bolt, and the friction portions of the action. There is one small spot of thinning finish on the top of the barrel, about half way down, and a few very minor scratches throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are tooled, but all retain serviceable slots. Overall, the bluing is deep and dark, and the rifle rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. The trigger has a light, 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: None
Our Assessment: The Sako L461 is a classic Finnish bolt-action built with the sort of precision and understated quality that made Sako rifles respected by hunters and target shooters alike. Offered here as a C&R-eligible example, the long 24″ barrel, hinged floorplate and checkered monte carlo stock reflect a purposeful design aimed at accuracy and steady handling—traits that made the L461 a fine choice for varmint work and precision shooting when it was produced.
Chambered in .222 Remington, the cartridge is a flat-shooting, small-bore round prized for varmint and bench-rest accuracy; paired with the 24″ barrel and the rifle’s crisp trigger, this example is well suited to those roles. Notable selling points include a bright bore we rate 10/10, about 98% of the original deep, dark bluing retained, and checkered walnut furniture with a fluted monte carlo comb. The stock shows light wear with some finish loss in a localized area, but fits the barreled action tightly and presents honestly for its age.
This Sako will appeal to buyers who want a fine period-correct Finnish sporter for precision hunting or target shooting, or a tasteful addition to a C&R collection. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
