1991 win model 70 super grade, vs Sako 85 finnlight

Brettzky

Brettzky

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Hey folks, looking for educated opinions here.

Option one is a GORGEOUS and miraculously unfired winchester model 70 Super Grade in .300 win mag, 1991 manufacture

2 is a Sako 85 Finnlight in 300 wsm, seen very light use with metal unmarked.

I'm aware of the sub moa sako guarantee and the new retail value differences. the 70 is probably one of the most gorgeous examples of burled walnut I've seen in a long time, but is it worth it to risk scratching or denting it on a hunt.
The sako is of course a sako, and I love everything about it except for the under-desirable stock. It costs $300 more, but comes with new Leupold rings and an extra magazine (so rifle to rifle they are selling for the same)

I don't want to get into a calibre debate so please don't start one; both are excellent but I already have a bunch of ammo for the wsm and do enjoy shooting that calibre, as long as the gun has no feed issues... Winchester seller is claiming a 100% satisfaction money back guarantee...


SO I would honestly only like responses from people that have shot either of these type of rifles for their honest opinions.
 
With the M70 that would be the time period when the first new/old CRF actions were being made. Many of those Supergrades had gorgeous wood and some of the worst inletting and fitting I've ever seen on a factory rifle. The standard ones were better, despite the first ones coming out of the custom shop.

The Supergrade I had from back then had the recoil pad and pistol grip cap over hanging by 1/8" and looked like it was fitted by a blind guy with a back-hoe. The wood was gorgeous, and I fell into the trap of ignoring the reality to protect the fantasy. It was after all my dream gun, a newly manufactured "pre-64" with great wood and modern stock design. Never mind that knowledgeable friends without stars in their eyes wondered if I'd lost my mind for bringing it home. None of this proves that the one you are looking at has problems, but just be aware that they cranked out some shoddy rifles. I can say that it shot very well in the relatively short time I had it. Make sure that the inspection/return period is iron clad.
 
I have a 90s Win with CRF and couldn't get it to shoot under abot 2 1/2 in at a 100 yds. Took the action out of the stock and the bedding material looked like hot glue or some such. Removed the goop, bedded it properly and now it shoots at about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 3 shot groups at 100, but it is slick and I won't sell it.
 
I am having a similar dilemma for my next rifle. Have been looking at used Sako and the prices seem a little high in most cases. Then you have scope clearance issues with some calibers etc. Have never handled a 70 but if the action is slick and solid, i am sold. Will probably consider a new supergrade, I like the high comb and pretty stock. Curious if fit and finish is improved on the new ones. They weigh a bit more than FW, but more weight will soak up some recoil. I am fine with that. Probaly top it with a Leupold.
 
NL-Hunter said:
Curious if fit and finish is improved on the new ones. They weigh a bit more than FW, but more weight will soak up some recoil. I am fine with that. Probaly top it with a Leupold.
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I have a new one in 7mm-08. Fit and finish is perfect. I can't find anything wrong with it. Very nice gloss bluing and very nice chunk of wood on it.
 
I've currently got 4 of the new Winchesters. I'd say they are the best rifles they ever built. I did have another, a 30-06 Super Grade that wasn't much of a shooter, bad enough that I took it back. In perhaps the ultimate of irony I replaced it with a Sako that shot worse. Oh well, if Sako is willing to put an accuracy guarantee on their rifles they will have to take a few back. Replaced that one with a Cooper.
 
I usually don't purchase rifles unless I can shoulder and cycle it. Shooting well is a gamble unless I can bring it to the range as well. Very few options in new rifles in my neck of the woods. I am looking at 700 KM's to nearest dealer that actually stock them... Have lots of patience though, time will tell.
 
Dogleg said:
I've currently got 4 of the new Winchesters. I'd say they are the best rifles they ever built. I did have another, a 30-06 Super Grade that wasn't much of a shooter, bad enough that I took it back. In perhaps the ultimate of irony I replaced it with a Sako that shot worse. Oh well, if Sako is willing to put an accuracy guarantee on their rifles they will have to take a few back. Replaced that one with a Cooper.
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The newest ones from Portugal at least the one I have is better then the full on USA ones from 2 years ago.
 
I presently own a 1991 or 1992 Custom Super Grade in 7mm Rem. Mag. and a M85 Sako Finnlite in 30-06. The Winchester had problems when it was purchased but the company came good and presented me with a completely rebuilt rifle. It is a cross between a safe queen and a rifle used occasionally for bench work. The Sako is slightly more accurate and lighter to carry. If I had to get rid of one it likely would be the Winchester. I would not be going without though since I own a more recent Super Grade in 300 WSM. They are all fine guns and only through handling and use can you determine which you prefer.

Jim
 
Keep in mind that the Sako 85 is not the Sako that built the reputation the company is surviving off. The Winchester may have some issues, but poor inletting can be dealt with as most rifles, especially ones with highly figured wood can benefit from bedding. I have one of the same vintage Winchesters and it shot fine up until the barrel was torched.

I'd go with the Winchester, personally.
 
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