sigguy, can you tell me why you don't like the 85s?
Been thinking about getting a synthetic stainless in 7mm08.
Don't get me wrong, I do like 85's, and have two.
Over the years, like many companies, Sako has looked to reduce manufacturing costs in order to keep prices reasonable. IMO the older Sakos seemed to have more quality to them, in both assembly and finish. The new ones are just as accurate, but not quite as "nice".
Some have had extraction issues with the 85, with brass bouncing off of scopes and back down into the action when working the bolt. I have not had this problem, but from what I understand it may have to do with mounting certain scopes too low, or a weak extractor, or possibly with the bolt design. I've read it happens less or not at all on the short actions. Do a search on here and you'll find tons on info. A member here, GaryVA, is very knowledgeable on the subject.
I am not a fan of the new recoil lug design, but there is nothing inherently wrong with it. I think that the pricing is kind of crazy, with new 85's starting around $1600. Finally, Beretta is pretty much universally loathed as having poor customer service. I have personally had one less than impressive experience with them.
For pure shooting and hunting, the 85's are fine rifles, as are the 75's. They are/were available in stainless too. For super accurate utility rifles at a reasonable price, Tikka's are hard to beat as well. I just got my first one, and love it.
If I wanted something that gave me more "pride of ownership", I would look for pre 75's in nice shape. There are lots of these around, for much less than the price of a new 85.
Hope this helps......