Sako L46
Sako Ltd. · Rifle · Discontinued · 1946
Also known as: Sako Vixen, Sako L46 Riihimaki, Riihimaki
Overview
The Sako L46 is a Finnish bolt-action rifle and Sako's first civilian small-action centerfire sporter, built on a compact 'micro' bolt action designed for high-velocity small-bore cartridges. Chambered most famously in .222 Remington, it earned a reputation for outstanding accuracy and dominated early benchrest competition, helping establish the .222 Rem as the 'triple-deuce' accuracy standard. Featuring a Bofors steel barrel, fine machining, and elegant European styling, the L46 cemented Sako's reputation as a maker of premium precision rifles.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 2800 g (98.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1080 mm (42.52") |
| Barrel Length | 610 mm (24.02") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 3 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 957 m/s (3140 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1483 J (1094 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .222 Remington · primary — also known as .222 Rem, Triple Deuce
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Micro Bolt Action, Bofors Steel Barrel, Detachable Magazine, Free Floating Barrel
Production
Production years: 1946-1962
Vast majority were chambered in .222 Remington; far more were produced in that caliber than all other chamberings combined. Limited production continued at the factory into the mid-1960s.
Origin
Country of origin: Finland
Discontinued: 1962
Notes
Also known by the Vixen and Riihimaki names (after the Finnish city of manufacture). Offered in several configurations including standard sporter, heavy-barrel varmint, Mannlicher-style full-stock carbine, and deluxe sporter. The .222 Remington Magnum chambering was added in 1961.
Background
Jack O'Connor, the famed American outdoor writer, owned a custom Sako L46 in .222 Remington built by stockmaker Lenard Brownell, underscoring the rifle's standing among discerning marksmen.