Serial Numbers for Early Sako

[bill]

Anybody know at what point in the serial number sequence the Sako rifles went to Garcia? Thanks, Bill

 

[deergoose]

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,Sans Serif][/FONT]Typically, serial numbers less than 60,000 for the long action Finnbears and less than 110,000 for the short and medium action Vixen and Foresters are pre-Garcia. However, Sako did some funky things w/ serial #s back then and the numbers can fall short or exceed those given. Only one six digit Finnbear that Sako Safari had comes to mind and I've heard of a 47xxx Finnbear that was a Garcia gun w/o the third locking lug. I think the numbers apply to both the sporters and the Deluxe guns. I'm hoping that some of the more seasoned and experienced Sako guys will add to this in case I'm missing something or need to be corrected. Hope this helps.

Hunter

 

[Guest]

Sako continued to offer pre 72 rifles and actions well into the Garcia period. I have two Garcia rifles that I would chalenge anyone to tell the difference between one of these and a post 72 other than the Garcia logo on bottom of barrel. I think too much is made over this anyway. It is not like Winchester where the quality was significantly changed. L61 actions after serial number 64776 are likely to be post 72

 

[Guest]

Looking for some help, the facts, (and a bit of scholarship)...The previous messages have stirred my curiousity. I own a Sako, Finnbear, L61R .270 rifle. The serial number is 518424. 1) I believe my rifle was imported by Garcia, but I haven't noticed a "Garcia logo" on the bottom of the barrel. Still a Garcia?2) Do you have an idea when my rifle was manufactured? In other words, how old is my particular gun?3) Also, what does the "R" mean in L61R? I suppose the "L" means "long-action." Am I right, or does it mean something else?4) I understand Sako makes "heavy," "medium," and "light" barrels. Which type of barrel do I have and how can I tell? The caliber? The serial number?5) I also understand Sako made "Vixen," "Forester," and "Finnbear" models. What do these names refer to precisely? The actions? The barrels? Both? Neither? 6) Obviously, I know very little about Sako rifles. But I am anxious to learn. One last question...I believe the "New Sako 75" is the latest "series" of rifles Sako has manufactured. This implies that there was a Sako 74, a Sako 73, and as previously mentioned, a "Sako 72." Have I got the manufacturing/series story correct? If so, what series does my rifle belong to? And over what years was this series manufactured (see question 2).Thanks for your scholarship, and your help.***sperc

 

[grandpasrifle]

As a potential data point. I'll add that my L61R 7mm Rem Mag has serial number 65679. My documentation states "Day of Inspection" as 18-8-1972. My dad worked for Garcia in the late 60s/early 70s. They had a batch of these rifles come in and he had pick of the litter. He picked out the best two (based on wood stock) and kept one for himself and gave one to my grandfather. I now own my grandfather's rifle and my brother owns my father's rifle. I haven't fired mine in 15+ years and am looking to possibly sell it. I don't have a good idea of its worth yet.

 

[paulsonconstruction]

I believe you have the version of the L61R called the Model 72. The initial run of 72's had the Skip Line checkering like the Deluxe model. Sako soon dropped that feature & went to regular checkering, so the "Skip Lines" are not as plentiful. The caliber is very common & probably one of the harder to sell, but condition is the most important factor. Having the box, hang tag, etc adds value. The scope being mounted leads me to assume the rifle has been used. Value is hard to determine without more info & pics or a hands on look. BTW, you have posted in a 23 year old thread, so you might get better feed back if you start a new thread.

 

[grandpasrifle]

Thanks. Its definitely used. I've harvested three mule deer myself and my grandfather harvested many deer, antelope & elk with it.

 

[bigcountry4me]

That’s actually a Deluxe L61R, the other photos simply don’t reveal the other attributes. Can you please show a photo of the bottom metal?

 

[grandpasrifle]

Here you go.

 

[bigcountry4me]

Yes, the sort of standard sakolope etching. Very nice rifle, Paulson’s comment related to caliber remains spot on. I’d suggest looking online at gunbroker or gunsinternational to make comparisons which may help with value. Caution however, many sellers are not realistic and have been listing the same rifles over, and over for many months. Find rifles that actually sell or have current bids- then follow them until sold.

Edit, sometimes a rarer floor plate commands a bit of a premium.

In my part of the country your rifle might bring $1200-1300 all in. Good luck.

 

[bigcountry4me]

To add, it appears to have had a front sight according to the paper work. If so, It could be slightly down graded because the area where the sight was mounted will be flat rather than highly polished.

 

[grandpasrifle]

Interesting. No flat spot on the end of the barrel.
Thanks for the suggestions.

 

[grandpasrifle]

I also found some of my grandfather's receipts. Looks like from purchase of the sling, scope and some ammo.

 

[gunner620]

Ah, the good old days. should have bought more Sako's and stuff.

 

[Spaher]

Granpasrifle, with this rifle’s history & provenance I think your rifle is priceless to your family. Even if you never use it afield perhaps one of your grandchildren will or just keeping it in its present condition is a form of respect to your grandfather.
It’s origin & documentation adds minimal value to others outside of your family, but merely an opinion….
All the best.

 

[bigcountry4me]

I think your rifle is priceless to your family.

Yep. plus one…probably should have mentioned the obvious.

 

[Bucktote]

Dear Grampsrifle,
You have a beautiful example of form fit & function! The level of craftsmanship & guality of materials are hard to find in today's production rifles & they don't make them anymore. I hope my grand children think more of the one that owned the rifle & keep mine out of love & respect. I would like you to consider to pass it on.
Best wishes, B/T

 

[grandpasrifle]

I will feel guilty when I eventually sell it. My brother & I have no kids of our own and there are no other family members to leave these to. I'm retiring in a couple years and leaving the country. Its not possible to keep this or take it with me.
I have a wood pendulum clock engraved with Ulysses S. Grant that belonged to my great grandmother. I'll have to unload that as well.

 

[Spaher]

Understood. All the best to you, sir.

 

[Bucktote]

Ditto, Mr. Spaher!
best wishes & happy retirement to come.
B/T