[SHOT 2018] NEW rifles (and amazing new stocks) from SAKO
It seems every time I come by SAKO’s booth, I pick up a rifle that truly impresses me. This time, there were multiple guns, all built around their excellent Finnlight II adjustable stock technology.
The 85 Finnlight 2 first caught my eye, due to the large square button set into its stock. Pressing this button allows one to smoothly and securely adjust the height of the cheekpiece. The button itself has a great feel, not too easily activated but not to difficult to activate either. It is much easier than fiddling with a knob or bolt, and is tool-less. When the adjusted part moves, it also glides slowly and smoothly. It’s the perfect amount of effort to get the piece where one wants it. I can tell the engineers at SAKO put a lot of time into perfecting this system. Also with it being from Finland, I have no qualms about using this system in extreme cold temperatures. The action is carbon fiber bedded into the RTM fiberglass stock. The action and barrel come cerakoted. The grip surfaces fore and aft are made of a very comfortable elastomer, as well as the cheekpiece. MSRP will be $2475. The Finnlight 2 is available in the following calibers:
- .243
- .308
- .25-06
- .270win/wsm
- .30-06
- .260rem
- .300wm/wsm
- 6.5×55
- 7mm-08
- 7mm mag
- 6.5 creedmoor
Next up, we have the awesome 85 Carbon Wolf. This rifle is adjustable for both cheek rise and length of pull using the same great adjustment button. The action is bedded into a carbon fiber stock. The stock features Soft Touch coating. Is is not at all slippery or loud like some carbon stocks can be. The barrels are factory threaded as well. Both the weight and the balance of the Carbon Wolf rifle felt perfect. I may have to add one to my Finnish rifle collection. MSRP is $3600, though, so I better start saving! The Carbon Wolf is available is the following calibers:
- .308
- .30-06
- .300wm
- 7mm mag
- 6.5 creedmoor
If one likes the adjustability of the Carbon Wolf, but likes the look/feel of wood stocks more, there is the new line of Black Wolf rifles. They have broadly the same set of features and calibers, but with a wood stock and an MSRP of $2325. All of the above rifles will be brought in through the SAKO “Select” dealer program, so availability may be somewhat limited.
I did get to handle the Tikka T1x rifles, and I must say, they were very well built and balanced. They seem a great value for the price point. The fit and finish didn’t seem like they cut any corners on these guns. The magazines were well made, and locked into place solidly.
Hyvin Tehty, SAKO!
More information on these new rifles can be found at SAKO.
Author’s note: I will try and locate the TRG 22/42 A1 tomorrow and get a more in-depth look at it.
Having always had a passion for firearms, Rusty S. has had experience in gunsmithing, firearms retail, hunting, competitive shooting, range construction, as an IDPA certified range safety officer and a certified instructor. He has received military, law enforcement, and private training in the use of firearms. Editor at Outdoorhub.com
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*sigh* I wish Sakos were in my price range. My best and favorite rifle is a hand-me-down from my wife's uncle, an early 80's Sako Forrester in .308. I had a scope issue that took awhile to sort, but when I finally did it'll shoot half inch 3 shot groups all day long (it'll take all day because it wants to cool between groups, or they open up). If I slow fire it, real slow, I've done three quarter inch 10 shot groups. 8lbs with scope and sling, gorgeous wood and metal. Bolt is butter smooth, though a little sloppy with only two lugs (if that makes sense).
Maybe I'll just have to track down an older Sako to add to my collection. I'd really love one in 6.5x55
The finnlight 2 is interesting, but that's an $800 upcharge for an adjustable cheek piece.