Pre-Garcia Sako Finnbear L61R .30-06 Springfield 24.5″ Bolt Rifle, 1968 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1550
LSB#: 220129GS001
Make: Sako
Model: Finnbear L61R
Serial Number: 35176
Year of Manufacture: 1968 C&R
Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Hinged Floorplate Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “FINNBEAR” and “MADE IN FINLAND”. The top of the barrel is marked “SAKO / Cal .30-06” along with two finnish proof marks. The left side of the receiver is marked “L61R” and with the serial number, “No. 35176” and with two factory markings. The right side of the barrel is marked “Bofors Steel” between two arrows. The bottom of the bolt handle is hand scribed “35176”.
Barrel Length: 24.5”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a hooded partridge style blade dovetailed to a checkered ramped base that is fixed to the barrel. There is no rear sight. Equipped to the top of the receiver via a two-piece rail system and two rings is a Leupold optic with 4-12x magnification and a duplex reticle. The scope shows little wear and the lenses are crystal clear.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered wood with pistol grip, fluted Monte Carlo comb with cheek-piece, sling swivel front and rear with an attached Mossy Oak leather sling, and a black Pachmayr White Line buttpad. Also equipped is an Allen buttstock sleeve with slots to hold additional rounds. The wood shows scattered faint draglines throughout. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/2” from the trigger to the rubber buttpad. The pad shows some light wear and faint discoloration. The stock rates in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, only a small amount of minor fouling on areas of the lands.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 93% of its metal finish. The barrel shows some infrequently scattered little nicks and dings and there are some freckles of oxidation nearer the muzzle. The rear half of the barrel shows some light stains on the top. The receiver shows some scattered freckles of oxidation. There is some minor build up where surfaces meet. The receiver has taken on a slight plum hue. There are some faint little nicks and scratches on the receiver. The screw heads show light use with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine overall condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: The previously mentioned items are included.
Our Assessment: The Finnbear L61R, was in production from 1962 to 1973. Sako Finnbear rifles are hefty, known for their fit, finish, and accuracy. And they have held their value very well. The Finnbear is no pristine safe queen but a beautiful hunting rifle that can be passed down from generation to generation. This example is in Fine condition with a beautiful, bright bore and a feather light trigger. Please see our photos and good luck!