1. Scope mounting options are extremely limited for Sakos.
2. Sako's tapered dovetail mounting scheme is a PIA.
3. The larger (above XS) action sizes have been said to have ejection issues, some have remedied this with a spring swap. I've had issues with my XS, if I operate the bolt too gingerly toward the end of the stroke.
4. COAL can be restricted by the proprietary DBM
5. There is no aftermarket bottom metal available.
6. Aftermarket stocks are very limited.
7. Their funky lug/block action to stock design is just that, funky.
On the upside, they are shooters. I just got back from the range with my Sako 85 Varmint 223, 1:8, single set trigger. It'll make a ragged hole with 77gr. SMKs at 200. Some have very nice wood, but your looking at synthetic. I'd consider SS Tikka with a McMillian stock upgrade.
****************I just wrote the above then saw this...
http://www.eurooptic.com/sako-85-synthetic-black-65x55-swede-jrs1c51.aspxAt that price, I'd strongly consider the Sako and maybe upgrade to a McMillian or maybe not.
I'm starting to see your quandary.
