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Make: Sako
Model: AV (L61R Finnbear Series)
Serial Number: 660709
Year of Manufacture: 1988
Caliber: .270 Winchester
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “SAKO AV 660709” followed by the Riihimäki proof mark. The left side of the barrel is marked “SAKO CAL. .270 WIN MADE IN FINLAND”. No import mark was found on this rifle, which implies it was brought into the country privately.
Barrel Length: 23"
Sights / Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights. The receiver is grooved for Sako-style ringmounts
Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle features a standard-grade walnut stock with a straight comb, Monte Carlo cheekpiece, and skip-line checkering on the grip and forend. The walnut displays attractive natural figure with only minor handling marks. The red rubber recoil pad shows minimal compression. The stock rates in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion or fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. There is light operational wear on the bolt handle and receiver rails. The screw heads are sharp, and all markings are crisp. The rifle appears to have been very lightly used and extremely well cared for.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The bolt locks up securely, the safety engages properly, and the trigger is crisp. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This Sako AV in .270 Winchester is a fine example of the company’s craftsmanship during the peak years of the Riihimäki factory’s production. Built on the long action AV receiver, this rifle is the final evolution of the legendary L61R “Finnbear” series. While the AV models are not explicitly marked “Finnbear” on the receiver, they retain the essential DNA of the earlier L61R rifles, including the smooth cycling, tight tolerances, and precision machining that made Sako’s long actions so revered among hunters and riflemen. The AV introduced refinements like an improved safety and recoil lug system while preserving the excellent handling characteristics of its predecessors.
The .270 Winchester cartridge is a timeless favorite among hunters, prized for its flat trajectory and effectiveness on medium to large game. This rifle would be right at home on a Western mule deer hunt or a white-tailed deer stand back East, but it’s also elegant enough to appeal to collectors of high-quality European sporting rifles.
If you're in the market for a beautifully crafted bolt-action rifle that blends Finnish engineering with timeless aesthetics, this Sako AV should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a hunter, a collector, or simply an admirer of fine rifles, this one offers exceptional condition and enduring appeal.