Finnish Valmet 88 Hunter .30-06 Springfield 22″ Semi-Auto Rifle w/ Mag

SOLD FOR: $3661

WOA#: WY230527MN001

Make: Valmet

Model:  88 Hunter

Serial Number: 399288

Year of Manufacture: Post 1988 to Mid 1990s

Caliber: .30-06 Springfield

Action Type: Semi-Automatic

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “399288 / Cal. 30-06 Spring.” with a Finnish proof and “e”.   Rear of the left side of the receiver is marked “VALMET / Made in Finland”. The right side of the receiver is marked “IMPORTED TO U.S.A. / BY STOEGER. INC. / S. HACKENSACK. N.J.”.  The pad on the buttstock is marked “VALMET Made in Finland”.  The scope mount is marked “VALMET”.

Barrel Length: 22″

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is a post within protective ears.  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 checkering especially on the right side of the grip.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 10rd .30-06 magazine in Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish:  Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-dark and the rifling is sharp. There is some light corrosion in the bore.

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 on the front sight and base. The gas block has some pitting and erosion. There is thinning on the leading edges especially under the receiver.  The screwheads are sharp with minor tooling marks and the pins are serviceable. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about 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 M88 Hunter chambered in .30-06 is a highly sought-after rifle among enthusiasts and collectors. It combines the renowned reliability and durability of this uniquely modified AK platform with the power and versatility of the .30-06 cartridge, making it more than well-suited for hunting big game.

This M88 Hunter maintains the distinctive features of the Valmet series, including its robust construction and Finnish craftsmanship. The wooden stock, often made from high-quality walnut, gives the rifle an elegant and traditional appearance. The stock features checkering for improved handling and control.

One notable aspect of the Valmet M88 Hunter is its limited importation into the United States. Due to import restrictions and the relatively small number of rifles brought into the country, the M88 Hunter ESPECIALLY chambered in .30-06 has become a highly sought-after and collectible firearm. Its scarcity and unique Finnish design contribute to its desirability among firearms enthusiasts.