I've been contemplating a mountain style rifle for some time now. I had it narrowed down to a Montana in either 270 or 300wsm, but yesterday at the local Gander Mt I got to see a Finnlight in 270WSM that I really liked. From the spec sheets, it looks like the Finnlight is only 1oz heavier. I like the stock of the Montana but the removable mag on the Sako quickly grew on me. I probably can't go wrong with either, but was wondering your thoughts as well.
Btw. I have a 8400 classic in 300wsm, but want something stainless for chitty weather.
If you are set on wsm you could probably flip a coin. If you want to save more weight go 270 or 280AI in the 84L.
I love the idea of an AI, but I don't handload. I'm leaning toward the 270WSM for the extra speed over the plain 270, plus, I already have a 270 and a 300WSM, so something new would be fun. The gun will be used for everything from SE whitetails to Elk in CO, and maybe even a sheep hunt if I ever get rich.
I would bet on the Finnlight for out of the box accuracy over the 8400. But with that said I have an 84L on order that will be here next week.
I would probably pick whichever has the best feel for you.
I have had two different 8400s in 270 WSM and both would shoot under an inch with quality ammo. My very good friend has a Sako 85 Finnlight in 270 WSM. Right out of the box his would shoot any ammo off the shelf under an inch. The only thing about a Sako is that you have limited options for scope rings. At least is was that way when I had a Sako.
If you have a chance handle both and pick the one that feels the best.
JJ....it's whatever blows your skirt up!
For me the removable magazine on the Sako would be a deal killer as I won't own a hunting rifle with one and I avoid hinged floor plates whenever I can. But that's what blows up my skirt.
I had a 9.3x62 Sako 85 that threw the cases into the scope turret. The problem seems to be more pronounced on the longer actions, as other have had similar problems with the medium and long actions. I don't recall having heard of an ejection issue on the short actions. Just FYI. No opinion on the Kimber.
Mountain rifle? Where every once counts the 8400 looses out to the 84M&L. Almost a pound heavier. The 84M is simply a joy, the rifle that really put Kimber on the map. The 84L is for the long action folks. Almost as good, so to speak. But the 8400 is not the first choice for a mountain/backpacking/hiking rifle.
If you haven't handled them you should find a place where you can. I've always thought the actions on Sako's are excellent. But when it comes to weight savings the 84M is unbeatable.
Just get the 270 in 84L if you are set on a long action, though the 84M in 7mm-08 or 308 should serve just as well and save even more weight.
If I were looking for a standard long action cartridge, I agree with the others here, and would only consider an 84l. The 8400 is too chunky in the LA, and I've read too many issues about the finnlight's failure to cleanly eject cases.
In the WSM offerings, I'd pick the one that fit me best, as both are great choices.
Kimber Montana 84 L in 280 ackley. Nosler has factory loads available and as has been said you lose a pound off the 8400. I have both and it's hard to beat the 84L ... and you won't be giving up any performance to the 270 wsm.
Own a Sako 85 Finnlight in 300 WSM, it weighs 7 pounds scoped. It is very accurate too.
I've got a Sako 85 Finnlight in 270 WSM and a 8400L in 280 AI.
I think the Sako is just a higher quality, better constructed rifle in my opinion.
That being said, I like both rifles.
That was mighty helpful, wasn't it?
A 270WSM won't do anything your 270 Win or 300WSM won't do.
I'd opt for a different chambering.....
If you are stuck on the WSM chambering get the Finnlight. The 8400 is the turd of the Kimber Montana line IMO. I had a 8400 300 WSM and it just felt like a fatty compared to the slim and trim 84M and now my 84L
If wanting to go on the 308 or 30-06 case the 84M and 84L would be a nice option.
I cant believe a Tikka guy hasn't chimmed in already so let me. Just buy a "Plastikka" and save your money.......they reek of cheapness but hey they shoot good ...............lmao!........Hb
Btw. I have a 8400 classic in 300wsm, but want something stainless for chitty weather.
If you're serious about hunting, you'll go with the Montana in order to duplicate an identical platform.
Ive have owned many Sako and they have never let me down, very accurate well built rifles. They are my go to when I hunt. Buy the Sako !!
I ve never owned a Kimber but they have a questionable track record.
He didn't have to, you did it for him. Who's the sucker?
who's the dumbass?..............................Hb