I don't put a lot of stock in it either but with bullet tech today I think a lot of bolt action manufactures could get away with a guarantee...at least a 3 shot one.
I have been watching the guy on Gunbroker since the first of January and at that point he had a boatload of A7's for sale so you are probably right on last year's models. I'm sure he got a bulk purchase deal from Beretta.
I'm sure Sako uses their own ammunition for the accuracy check; too bad we can't get it in the states. I am currently working up a load for my 22-250 A7 and so far my best 3 shot group is 5/8" and I believe it will do better.
I really want to buy another one but can't justify it right now....
A7 5 Shot 
