Sako AV L61R Finnbear Carbine .375 H&H mag 20″ Bolt Action Hunting Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,925.00
LSB#: LSB260113JS022
Make: Sako; Finland. Imported by Stoeger Industries.
Model: AV L61R Finnbear Carbine
Serial Number: 602271
Year of Manufacture: Circa Mid to Late 1980’s
Caliber: .375 H&H Magnum
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine, Hinged Floorplate
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SAKO CAL. .375 H&H MAG. MADE IN FINLAND”, along with a proof mark. The right side of the barrel is marked “IMP’D BY STOEGER INC. N.J.”. The left side of the receiver is marked “SAKO AV 602271”.
Barrel Length: 20″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade, dovetailed to a serrated ramp, screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable U-notch sight, on a riser, screwed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is dovetailed for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut mannlicher stock, with a semi-pistol grip with right-handed palm swell, monte carlo comb with cheekpiece, red rubber Sako buttpad, a checkered forend with a barrel band with sling ring, and a sling stud in the belly of the buttstock. The LOP measures 14″ from the front f the trigger to th back of the buttpad. The stock shows light storage wear, with minor superficial imperfections throughout the stock from being stored in its factory foam box. The stock’s oiled finish is intact throughout, and the wood grain is attractive. The checkering is well defined, with sharp peaks. The stock fits tightly to the barreled action, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in Fine to Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality:
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 99% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows no notable wear. The bluing is deep and dark throughout. There is no notable wear on the bolt, indicating minimal (if any) use. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. The trigger has a 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: This rifle comes with its original serial number matching box, and a sight hood for the front sight. This rifle does NOT come with an owner’s manual or paperwork.
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 presents in fine to excellent overall condition, retaining nearly all of its original blued finish with minimal evidence of use. The bore is bright and sharply rifled, the bolt shows virtually no wear, and the walnut Mannlicher stock remains well preserved with crisp checkering and attractive grain. With its original box and sight hood included, this Sako Finnbear Carbine stands as a particularly clean and well-kept 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! – J.D.