To say I am far from a Sako expert is an understatement. But, I have always admired them as being well made rifles, and have only recently been in a position to acquire a few. I spotted this L61R on Gunbroker. It looked to be in good shape at a reasonable price, and so I pulled the trigger. Hopefully folks will indulge me while I over do it with photos of my new toy. My apologies to those with a slower internet connection.
Though not mentioned in the auction text, "good condition" actually appears to be "unfired." While this is certainly a happy surprise, this puts me in a slight dilemma. I am a shooter and a hunter, not a collector, meaning I want to shoot what I own. Consequently, I tend to avoid unfired vintage guns because one usually pays a premium for such guns, whereas the unfired status doesn't especially appeal to my shooting interests. Not to mention the gun will loose that special value if I shoot it. Now, I will feel like I am devaluing this very nice unfired Sako if I take it to the range or on a hunt. Admittedly, I am lucky to have this "problem."
As the photos show, there is no "Bofors Steel" mark, and no importer mark visible above the wood. Only minimal deformation to the recoil pad, which still retains some elasticity. Serial number would suggest about mid-1968 manufacture, if it could be relied upon.
I'd be interested in any feedback/thoughts from the members.
Though not mentioned in the auction text, "good condition" actually appears to be "unfired." While this is certainly a happy surprise, this puts me in a slight dilemma. I am a shooter and a hunter, not a collector, meaning I want to shoot what I own. Consequently, I tend to avoid unfired vintage guns because one usually pays a premium for such guns, whereas the unfired status doesn't especially appeal to my shooting interests. Not to mention the gun will loose that special value if I shoot it. Now, I will feel like I am devaluing this very nice unfired Sako if I take it to the range or on a hunt. Admittedly, I am lucky to have this "problem."
As the photos show, there is no "Bofors Steel" mark, and no importer mark visible above the wood. Only minimal deformation to the recoil pad, which still retains some elasticity. Serial number would suggest about mid-1968 manufacture, if it could be relied upon.
I'd be interested in any feedback/thoughts from the members.
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