Old sako in .338 win mag

[Stephan Bauser]

I recently acquired an older (I'm thinking mid 80s) sako AV in .338 win mag. I'm curious as to what the actual model is and year of production might be? Serial number is 616509. Any information on this rifle would be appriciated, I've read mixed reviews on the sako over the years and don't know if I can expect this vintage to be a high quality shooter or not. Ideally I'd like to make it a medium to long range gun for big game, 400-800 yds would the rifle in stock form be up to snuff?

 

[TheOtherZilla]

From what I can find it looks like 1970-71... Google is your friend

 

[Stephan Bauser]

Closest I could figure from Google was that it's an l61r from 85-89, that's from sako's old model page. I'm assuming it's somewhere in there because the leupold on top of it is from 89. And knowing the original owner he bought them together. Sadly he is dead so I can't ask him and his wife has no idea.

 

[Keith Kilby]

I used to have a Finnbear in 338 Win Mag. Shot exceptionally well but recoil was exceptionally obnoxious. Serial # 449. Bought in Alaska early 70's.

 

[Stephan Bauser]

I used to have a Finnbear in 338 Win Mag. Shot exceptionally well but recoil was exceptionally obnoxious. Serial # 449. Bought in Alaska early 70's.

This is the rifle I have. It seems to shoot pretty well but I haven't checked it from a bench. I fired about 10 rounds through it from the prone to correct and confirm the zero. It's a thumper but the recoil is quite manageable with the weight of the rifle. It's comparable to a .300 win mag in a 6 or 7 pound rifle.

 

[Capt. Oblivious]

Man thats nice

 

[L.Sherm]

I have a L61 338 that shoots the 210NP really good.

 

[mikeinct]

Back in the 80's I helped a guy get ready for a Caribou hunt..I loaded some test rounds with only 90% of IMR 4350 powder recommended load for the 225 grain bullet he choose ...It could shoot ...It was a killer to just over 400 yards...I hope that helps you...800 yards seems a long stretch for a hunting rifle....Mike in Ct...PS: my 70's Vintage Sako 270Win. shoots best with less than max weight for caliber bullets as well...