For you Sakos aficianados, how does the earlier AV model compare to the 75 and 85 models? There are a couple of guns that are missing from my safe, and something in a Sako is one of them. I'm thinking of a 270 for deer hunting. Any thoughts on which version is better, and if so, why? Thanks.

i dont own any of the newer sako models but i beleive they might shoot a tad better since they do have an accuracy gaurantee.

as far as looks they must have ran out of nice walnut blanks over there as i hve yet to see one of the 75/85 models with a pretty stock like the av models

gene

From your post, I can't tell if you are looking for an AV or a 75/85. However, most say that the older AVs had an edge in workmanship and are higher regarded. Also, folks tend to look for pre-Garcia models which command a premium.

With regards to the 75/85s, I have a 75 and it is absolutely, without a doubt, the finest factory rifle out there. It feeds so smooth that I have to verify that it caught the round and chambered it. The trigger is great right out of the box and with a 5-shot, 1MOA guarantee, it will deliver. The only negative (if any) that I have to say about the Sakos is that I don't like their scope mounting system. I wished the receivers were drilled and tapped for bases. Ring choices for the 75/85 line could be better as many have complained that the Optilock bases/rings have soft screws which are easily stripped.

AV's are the last of the good ones IMO. Nothing wrong with the 75/85 I'm just a vintage Biggot!













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I have read that the pre-Garcia models are more desired by collectors. I'm not looking for a collectible, but rather a quality functional hunting rifle. I ran across an AV Hunter in 270 that appears to be in excellent shape for $950. I think that is a bit high, but can't get a good feel for what's an appropriate price range for that particular model.

I'm trying to determine whether, if I'm going to spend the money, whether I'd be better off with an AV or 75, or even an 85. I prefer the checkering lines on the AV to the checkering on the 75/85, but that's really a minor issue. Accuracy is obviously more important.

Thanks for the comments folks.

I had both do not see a difference whatsoever in quality. I like the action better on the 75.

Can't comment on the AV but I have a 75 deluxe and the 85 GW, I prefer the 75.

I like them all. I have seen some nice walnut on new 85's so there is some still out there.

The biggest difference in handling is between the 85 and the others. The 85's have a classic style stock whereas most of the AV's and the 75's have Monte-Carlo style stocks. I prefer a classic stock myself but still own and shoot several of the older models.

Almost all Sako's tend to shoot very well so any of them should be more than accurate enough to hunt with.

My favorite Sako's for hunting tools are the Finnlites since they are the lightest. Some of the others tend to be on the heavy side.

I think the best advice would be for you to buy any of the above in a caliber you like and enjoy it. But it probably won't be the only one you end up with! ;-) ...............DJ

Well I don't know a gun shop I go to has a Sako 85 on the shelf in 6.5 x 55 and its a sweet right. Its a Finn light and I could live with it very well thank you if I was in the market for a new rifle.