Make: Sako, in Riihimaki

Model: L46

Serial Number: 1885 (serial matching bolt)

Year of Manufacture: 1946 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 7x33mm Sako

Action Type: Bolt action, controlled round feed, detachable magazine

Barrel Length: 23.6"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a hooded post dovetailed into a checkered base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable elevation square-notch marked 1 to 5 pinned into a fixed base. The receiver is grooved for an optic and checkered to reduce glare. No optic is included.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is one piece wood with a cheek piece, smooth semi-pistol grip, banded forend, sling swivels at the front and rear, and a serrated synthetic buttplate. The buttplate shows moderate handling wear and a chip taken from the bottom. The furniture shows only some minor pressure dings and drag lines. The LOP measures 13.75" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks in the wood. The furniture rates in Very Good Plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is mild erosion at the muzzle end of the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its original metal finish. The finish shows edge wear, oxidation spots, some scratches, and thinning. The screw heads show faint tooling and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This first-year Sako L46 was manufactured in 1946 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. Produced by Sako in Riihimaki, Finland, the L46 was Sako's first commercial bolt-action sporting rifle and laid the foundation for the company's internationally renowned line of precision hunting rifles. Early first-year examples are particularly desirable to collectors, representing the beginning of Sako's post-war sporting rifle production. The L46 quickly established a reputation for exceptional machining, smooth operation, and outstanding accuracy that continues to define the Sako name today.

Chambered in the proprietary 7x33mm Sako cartridge with a 23.6 inch barrel, this rifle reflects Sako's effort to develop an efficient, low-recoil hunting cartridge ideally suited for small to medium-sized game. Popular throughout Scandinavia, the 7x33mm became known for its practical field performance and mild shooting characteristics. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8 out of 10, indicating good rifling with moderate, honest use. The action functions correctly.

The furniture rates in Very Good Plus condition with light handling wear consistent with careful ownership. This rifle retains approximately 80% of its original metal finish, showing honest thinning and handling wear while maintaining an attractive overall appearance. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition and represents a highly desirable first-year Riihimaki Sako L46 chambered in the scarce 7x33mm Sako cartridge, offering outstanding appeal to collectors of early Finnish sporting arms. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!