New member. First Sako

[makarov9mm]

Obligatory first post.... I just bought a Sako 30-06 with the Mannlicher style stock. I'll admit it was an impulse buy. Most of my other guns are CZ's with a few old .22's thrown in. Mossbergs and Remingtons mostly. I passed up a CZ in .308 with a Mannlicher stock a few months ago. Today I wandered into the gun shop/toy store. Yes it literally is a toy store/hunting store. On the far end of the rack was a rifle with a beautiful full stock. The tag was turned so I couldn't see it, so I had to ask. The rest is history. It was on consignment, so I had the guy call the owner to see if I could talk him down a little. It has a nice Leupold scope on it. From what I could google it is an AIII model made in late 70's to early 80's. As much as I like CZ's this rifle is a step above the one I passed on a few months ago. Paid $800 for it. Might be high? Don't really care, I love the way it looks and feels. Nothing beats a fine oiled wood stock. Can't wait to shoot it.

 

[stonecreek]

Welcome, Makarov.

A nice A-III Mannlicher with a Leupold on it for $800? You got a huge bargain. Congratulations on becoming a Sako owner.

Also, condolences: You'll find buying Sakos a hard habit to break.

 

[Branxhunter]

Hah, hah, hah, it's all downhill from here! As Stone has indicated they are addictive. If I could pick up a full wood at that price I would be walking quickly outa that shop and not looking back - a steal.

Marcus

 

[makarov9mm]

Thanks for the replies. Yes it is an A3 (AIII) - the stock is nice wood, but not heavily figured like I have seen some. It is missing the front sight hood. It does not have a rear sight, but I take it that the rifles imported into the US might not have always come with one? Is that accurate? I might try to track down a front sight hood just because I think they look cooler with them on . The rifle was not a safe queen. It has some bluing wear on the barrel cap and some nicks here and there. Overall, it is in good shape. I don't hunt usually, but have been asked to go next year with family. Should make a good hunting rifle for deer or elk. I'm sure it will be a blast to shoot with that 20" barrel. I think 800 was a good price considering it has a few scratches, but the scope and rings are worth something. It is a Leupold 3x9x40 VX2 scope. Nice clear optics. Overall, I couldn't ask for a better high mountain hunting rifle for deer and elk. I live in Eastern Washington State. Usually not heavy brush country but sometimes you have to hike a bit when hunting. I really like the idea of such a handy length rifle and have always really liked the old country look of the Mannlicher stocks. Always wanted a Ruger 10/22 International, but don't have one.