Finnish Valmet 88 Hunter .243 Win 20.5″ Semi-Auto Hunting Rifle w/ Mag

SOLD FOR: $2425

WOA#: WY230527MN002

Make: Valmet

Model:  88 Hunter

Serial Number: 359248

Year of Manufacture: Post 1988 to Mid 1990s

Caliber: .243 Winchester

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Gas Piston

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “359248 / Cal. 243 Win.” with a Finnish proof and “c”.   Rear of the left side of the receiver is marked “VALMET / FABRIQUE EN FINLANDE”. There is no import mark. The pad on the buttstock is marked “VALMET Made in Finland”.  The scope mount is marked “VALMET”.

Barrel Length: 20.5″

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is a post.  The rear sight is a flip up notch sight.  The dust cover has a scope rail and the rail is mounted with a set of Valmet Scope Rings.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece stock is checkered wood with traditional grip, sling stud in the bottom of the buttstock and sling ring on the left side of the gas block, and rubber buttpad.  The LOP measures 13.75″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock rates in about Fine overall condition.  There are some light scratches, compression marks, and nicks.  There is some handling wear on the grip.  The inside of the magwell has some orange dried grease.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 5rd .243 Win magazine in Good overall condition. There is some dried orange grease on the feed lips and on the follower.

Type of Finish:  Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:  The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore.  The bore does need a good cleaning however.

Overall Condition:  This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows some light scratches on the receiver and dust cover.  There is some corrosion in the receiver.  The screwheads are sharp with minor tooling marks and the pins are serviceable. The markings are clear. The Bolt Carrier and piston tube are turning a nice plum color.  Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a total of one magazine.

Our Assessment: The Valmet 88 Hunter chambered in .243 is a high-quality rifle known for its reliability, accuracy, and versatility. Manufactured by Valmet in Finland, this rifle is part of the Valmet 88 series, which gained a reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship and performance.

The Valmet 88 Hunter is specifically designed for hunting and sport shooting, making it a popular choice among hunters and shooting enthusiasts. The .243 Winchester chambering is well-suited for various game, including deer and varmints. It offers a good balance of accuracy, flat trajectory, and manageable recoil, making it an excellent choice for both long-range and close-range shooting.

One notable feature of the Valmet 88 Hunter is its robust construction. The rifle is built with high-quality materials and undergoes stringent quality control processes to ensure durability and reliability. The stock is made from high-grade walnut, providing a comfortable grip and pleasing aesthetic that only the Finns know how to achieve. The overall design of the rifle is ergonomic, allowing for quick and easy handling in hunting scenarios.

The Valmet 88 Hunter incorporates a detachable magazine system, allowing for quick and convenient reloading. This feature is particularly beneficial in hunting situations where fast follow-up shots may be necessary. The rifle also features a reliable and crisp trigger, contributing to its accuracy and ease of use.

With its precise barrel and action, the Valmet 88 Hunter delivers exceptional accuracy and consistent performance. The .243 caliber provides ample power for hunting various game species while offering manageable recoil, enabling accurate and ethical shot placement.

Overall, the Valmet 88 Hunter in .243 is a reliable and accurate rifle designed for hunting and sport shooting. Its combination of quality craftsmanship, versatile chambering, and dependable performance make it a desirable choice for hunters and shooting enthusiasts seeking a high-quality firearm for their pursuits.