Need Advice Re: Sako 75 Finnlight 300WSM

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Jan 27, 2017
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495
Location
UT
Greetings! I'm a longtime lurker on this forum, and new to Sakos, but I am familiar with their reputation. I was hoping the experienced members of this group could give me some advice and information regarding a rifle I have stumbled upon. I figured some of you would be familiar with Sakos based on the interest in Tikka and other lightweight rifles here. I currently own a Browning A-Bolt II Composite Stalker 30-06 that has been my go-to rifle for deer and elk. Given that I will be doing more elk hunting, I was considering stepping up to a magnum, namely a Tikka T3 Lite in 7mm RM. However, today I walked into a local gun shop and found what I believe is a Sako 75 Finnlight that is in good shape in 300WSM. The action was stamped "Sako SM" and it has a fluted SS barrel/action, DBM and a black synthetic stock with gray grip panels. I had not considered a Sako since they are frankly out of my budget. However, I was shocked to see that this rifle was marked down from $899 to $500!! This got my attention to say the least...

I did not purchase this rifle because I did not know what I was getting myself into (not an impulse buyer), but I am now kicking myself now that I have seen that these rifles easily go $800-$1000 or more USED. My biggest concern is buying a lemon. Is this too good to be true? Are there any known problems with this model? I figure the action and parts are worth that much if it is a functioning rifle that may have some accuracy issues.

What can I expect from this rifle if I do my part? What kind of accuracy are you achieveing with the Sakos? What kind of long range potential do you see in this lightweight rifle (in my world this means 500 yards and beyond)? Obviously, my marksmanship skills are the biggest factor, along with quality ammo that is suited to this rifle.

Are there any issues I should be concerned with this model rifle before purchasing? I am a little concerned about the punishing recoil of a 300WSM in such a light rifle. I did not plan to put a muzzlebrake on this rifle, but I may have to take this into consideration. That said, I have shot Brownings in 300WM and found them manageable for short strings of fire, although not comfortable (I am not particularly recoil sensitive). Since I reload, I figure that I could "download" the 300WSM or use lighter projectiles to tame the recoil. Or just flip the rifle and sell it if it doesn't work out for me, since it seems like a deal I should not pass up.

Are there any other considerations I should make with this rifle, such as reloading for it or buying rings/mounts, or restocking, etc.? Is this action a good host for rebarreling to another caliber? If so, what calibers?

I am thinking of showing up at the shop ASAP to buy this rifle, so this is a spur-of-the moment purchase. I am hoping you all could cut down on my research time, so I don't end up with an expensive paperweight. Thank you for any information that you could give me before purchasing this rifle.
 
You should buy that, immediately.

Sakos are great rifles.
.300WSM is a great cartridge.

I'd gamble $500 to see if it's a shooter, you'd easily recoup the cost if you moved it down the road later.
 
Wow, awesome rifle at an awesome price.

I have a Sako 75 Finnlight in 6.5x55 and love it. It's accurate, smooth, reliable and the 3 lug design makes for a short bolt lift. The only negatives I see are the magazines are expensive and the scopes rings choices are limited. In comparison with my Tikka T3 in 300wsm I'd say the Tikka is lighter but the Sako feels more stout. I shortened the stock on my Finnlight because 14.75" lop was too long for me, especially when wearing a few extra layers. For a 300wsm I'd add a Limbsaver Airtech and have no recoil worries. Does it come with scope rings? If I bought another Finnlight I would d&t the receiver for a T3 base rather than spend the coin on Sako rings.

If you decide not to buy it please let me know where it is. ;)
 
I've owned this rifle since 2006. I've had no issues with it. It's taken more game than I care to count. It's a steal at that price in my experience.
 
We're blessed with an enormous amount of truly great rifles available at this time, you can't go wrong with this one at that price, if it trips your trigger grab it. If it turns out to be less than expected it won't be hard to recoup all your money and then some. It's hard to beat the value of the Tikka T3 but this Finnlight is a step up and at a lower price.
 
To the OP, recoil has not been a problem for me. I had previously uses a 30-06. Not all that much different. Also, I reload for this rifle. If you get it I can get you started on what's worked for me.
 
I've re-looked at FinnLites I'd bet 20+ times - Not long ago I'd nearly made my mind up to get one so I went on the search for scope mount options of which there are not many and no lightweight ones that I found - I also don't like the way the magazine has to be pushed up while you finger the lever to release it, not all that smooth of an exercise for me at least - What I DO like is the 3 function safety, THAT is a nice one
 
The 75s are not like that with mag, at least not mine. When I was in the market I handled the kimbers, weatherby, etc.. Sako was it for me all the way. I have not had any cause to look for another mountain mag since 2006 so I'm probably out of the loop on the newest, greatest rifles! If I had the dime I'd buy another 75 in 7mm-08 at that price in a heartbeat.
 
I've re-looked at FinnLites I'd bet 20+ times - Not long ago I'd nearly made my mind up to get one so I went on the search for scope mount options of which there are not many and no lightweight ones that I found - I also don't like the way the magazine has to be pushed up while you finger the lever to release it, not all that smooth of an exercise for me at least - What I DO like is the 3 function safety, THAT is a nice one

You are confused, the OP asked about a Sako 75 Finnlight. The Sako 75 mag catch works identical to the Tikka T3, toggle the catch to the rear and the mag pops out from spring pressure, no pushing up required. Since the 75 has been out of production for about 10+ years you've probably been looking at the Sako 85, it may be different.
 
You are confused, the OP asked about a Sako 75 Finnlight. The Sako 75 mag catch works identical to the Tikka T3, toggle the catch to the rear and the mag pops out from spring pressure, no pushing up required. Since the 75 has been out of production for about 10+ years you've probably been looking at the Sako 85, it may be different.

Yep, you are correct - My BAD
 
When I had a Sako I had it D&T for standard weaver mounts. Simple solution to the goofy Sako system. I'm sure Talleys or a rail could be done the same way for a few bucks.
 
Thanks for all your input guys! I went back to the shop and the gun was still there. After speaking with the gunsmith, I pounced on the deal for the Sako! What I found out was that the gun belonged to the owner of the gunshop and had less then 100 rounds through it. I had a friend (fellow Sako owner) look the gun over with a bore scope. He described the barrel as "pristine".

As far as installing a muzzlebrake, the smith stated that he felt there would not be enough "meat" left on the barrel after threading, and probably would not recommend installing a brake.

I am excited to get this rifle out to the range and see what it can do. Unfortunately, I still need to procure some rings and bases in order to mount a scope. What do you guys recommend? Not sure I want to stray away from the factory mounting system by drilling and tapping for another type of mount. I also need to develop a load for this rifle, so if you have any suggestions for powder/projectiles/other components, I would appreciate it. I will primarily be using this rifle to hunt elk in Utah, but may also try it on mule deer if I sell off my 30-06 to fund this project. Thanks.
 
I recommend saving your money and selling the rifle to me for 600.

In all seriousness though take it back to the shop get some mid level rings/bases and mount the scope. If it shoots and you like it you can always upgrade to higher end mounts or a machined rail if wanted. If you decide not to keep it you can sell it with rings and bases and not lose any money.
 
I still need to procure some rings and bases in order to mount a scope. What do you guys recommend? Not sure I want to stray away from the factory mounting system by drilling and tapping for another type of mount. .

Head over to Europtic or SWFA.... there are a few different manufacturers of ring mounts for that rifle, Leupold, Burris, etc.
The Sako system looks a bit odd, but it works.

I'd bet that after you shoot it a bit, you're not going to be troubled by the recoil enough to warrant a brake.
 
I use Sako rings. My scope as been on there for over 10 years. Recoil of the rifle has never bothered me. The trigger is adjustable and is sweet. Factory rounds that shoot well out of the rifle include federal fusion and winchester ballistic tips (though the cause way too much damage). I've had great luck with 165 and 180 barnes bullets loaded to mag length using RL 19 and 17 powder. Sierra gamekings shoot very well also. I'm generally settling on about .5 grain off of max charge with those loads. The rifle has been an absolute joy for me and a killing machine. I'd sleep beside it during hunting season but my wife would divorce me.
 
I recommend saving your money and selling the rifle to me for 600.

In all seriousness though take it back to the shop get some mid level rings/bases and mount the scope. If it shoots and you like it you can always upgrade to higher end mounts or a machined rail if wanted. If you decide not to keep it you can sell it with rings and bases and not lose any money.

Fat chance! I now know what these rifles sell for, so I don/t foresee me selling it anytime soon

I just spoke to a friend who has offered me an old set of Leupold rings/bases that he once had installed on his Sako 75. This will allow me to mount a scope sooner than later so I can function test the rifle and see how it shoots. I've not been impressed by the Leupold rings I've seen for Sakos, but it's a means to an end until I can pony up for something of higher quality.
 
Wow, awesome rifle at an awesome price.

I have a Sako 75 Finnlight in 6.5x55 and love it. It's accurate, smooth, reliable and the 3 lug design makes for a short bolt lift. The only negatives I see are the magazines are expensive and the scopes rings choices are limited. In comparison with my Tikka T3 in 300wsm I'd say the Tikka is lighter but the Sako feels more stout. I shortened the stock on my Finnlight because 14.75" lop was too long for me, especially when wearing a few extra layers. For a 300wsm I'd add a Limbsaver Airtech and have no recoil worries. Does it come with scope rings? If I bought another Finnlight I would d&t the receiver for a T3 base rather than spend the coin on Sako rings.

If you decide not to buy it please let me know where it is. ;)

I love the short bolt lift...like my Browning. Have you seen the magazines any cheaper than $100 each? And no, I was not lucky enough to get rings along with that smokin' price!
 
We're blessed with an enormous amount of truly great rifles available at this time, you can't go wrong with this one at that price, if it trips your trigger grab it. If it turns out to be less than expected it won't be hard to recoup all your money and then some. It's hard to beat the value of the Tikka T3 but this Finnlight is a step up and at a lower price.

This rifle is definitely everything I liked about the Tikka...and then some!!
 
To the OP, recoil has not been a problem for me. I had previously uses a 30-06. Not all that much different. Also, I reload for this rifle. If you get it I can get you started on what's worked for me.

This is good to hear. I think I will start with a Limbsaver recoil pad, since the factory recoil pad is as hard as a rock. I'd be curious to hear what has worked for you. The gunsmith recommended H1000 and H4831SC for powder and the 168 Berger VLD Hunting and possibly the 178 Hornady ELD-X for projectiles. I may also be interested in the the 180 Nosler Accubond or maybe a 180 Nosler Partition for elk.
 
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