Sako 85 Finnlight
Sako · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2006
Also known as: Sako Finnlight, 85 Finnlight
Overview
The Sako 85 Finnlight is a lightweight bolt-action hunting and precision rifle manufactured by Sako in Finland since 2006 as part of the Sako 85 family, which was introduced to celebrate the company's 85th anniversary. The Finnlight is distinguished by its fluted stainless steel barrel and lightweight synthetic stock, resulting in a total weight under 3 kg that makes it exceptionally suited for mountain and backcountry hunting. The cold hammer-forged barrel delivers the sub-MOA accuracy Sako is known for, while the controlled-round-feed bolt action with a total bolt lift of 70 degrees ensures smooth, reliable cycling. Available in a wide range of calibers from .243 Winchester to .300 Winchester Magnum, the Finnlight has earned a devoted following among hunters who demand precision without carrying unnecessary weight.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 2900 g (102.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1055 mm (41.54") |
| Barrel Length | 514 mm (20.24") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 15 N (3.4 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 860 m/s (2822 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 3115 J (2298 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 203 mm (7.99") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Stainless |
Calibers
- 6.5 Creedmoor · primary — also known as 6.5 CM, 6.5mm Creedmoor
- .308 Winchester · 7.62x51mm NATO — also known as 7.62x51mm NATO, 7.62 NATO
- .300 Winchester Magnum — also known as .300 Win Mag, .300 WM
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Three Position Safety
- Features: Free Floating Barrel, Fluted Barrel, Detachable Magazine, Cold Hammer Forged Barrel, Single Set Trigger, Lightweight Construction
Variants
- Sako 85 Finnlight II — Updated
- Sako 85 Carbonlight — Carbon Fiber
Production
Production years: 2006-present
Continuously produced as part of the Sako 85 family. Exact production numbers not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: Finland
Notes
The Sako 85 Finnlight uses Sako's proprietary three-lug bolt with a 70-degree bolt lift and controlled-round feed. The fluted barrel reduces weight while maintaining rigidity. The Finnlight II update added a carbon fiber-reinforced stock and RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding) process for improved stock consistency. MSRP ranges from approximately $1,800 to $2,200 depending on caliber and configuration.
Background
The Sako 85 Finnlight is considered one of the finest lightweight hunting rifles ever produced, embodying the Finnish tradition of precision engineering for harsh Nordic conditions. Its combination of sub-3 kg weight and consistent sub-MOA accuracy made it a benchmark against which other lightweight hunting rifles are measured.