Sako Finnbear AV Super Deluxe L61R .338 Winchester Magnum Bolt Rifle, 1982

SOLD FOR: $2,175.00

WOA#: WY240405JS010

Make: Sako

Model: AV, Finnbear Super Deluxe (L61R)

Serial Number: 646543

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1982

Caliber: .338 Winchester Magnum

Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Hinged Floorplate Internal Magazine

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “CAL..338 WIN. MAG. MADE IN FINLAND” with a Finnish proof. The left side of the receiver is marked “SAKO AV” with the serial number, “646543” and with a Finnish proof. The bottom of the bolt handle is hand scribed “543”. The floorplate has a “sakolope” silver-inlaid engraving with foliate motif on the trigger guard. The bottom of the barrel has a Stoeger import mark.

Barrel Length: 24 1/2”

Sights/Optics: There is no provision for iron sights. The top of the receiver has integral Sako-pattern bases.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is one-piece checkered walnut with carved leaf motif, nosecap, capped pistol grip with an oval (appears to be missing an inlay), monte carlo comb with cheekpiece, ventilated brown rubber Sako buttpad and sling studs front and rear. The stock has no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well defined. The LOP measures 13 7/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the pad. The pad has minor wear and remains fairly supple. Overall, the stock is in Excellent condition as missing the inlay.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore but there is some stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent 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: None.

Our Assessment: The Finnbear L61R, was in production from 1962 to 1979, later redesignated the AV. Sako Finnbear rifles are hefty, known for their fit, finish, and accuracy. They have also held their value very well. This Finnbear Super Deluxe is a beautiful hunting rifle that can be passed down from generation to generation. This example was produced ca. 1982 and is chambered for the .338 Winchester Magnum cartridge. While this is a great hunting cartridge suitable for larger game and predators, the Super Deluxe also a fairly scarce variant that will be interesting to the Sako collector. Please see our photos and good luck!

Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud