Sako 85

Lore & Background

The Sako 85 is the successor to the Sako 75. While the M75 and M85 designs have many similarities, they also have many differences. The Sako 75 has push feed, whereas the Sako 85 has controlled feed. The two models also have different types of magazines, and some parts such as the bottom metals do not interchange. Production ended at the end of 2022 for the newly introduced Sako 100.

The receiver is made in six different lengths depending on the cartridge group, ranging from Extra Small (XS) for .222 Rem and .223 Rem to Extra Large (XL) for .416 Rigby, .450 Rigby, and .500 Jeffery. The rationale behind the large number of action lengths is to achieve a good fit with the cartridge length, avoiding unnecessary long bolt travel and reducing weight. The bolt has three locking lugs, a 70-degree bolt lift, and is milled from a solid piece of cast steel including the bolt handle. The bolt is cocked on opening and has controlled feeding with the ejector fixed to the receiver.

The factory barrel is either stainless or blued depending on the receiver. All factory barrels for the Sako 85 are cold hammer forged and can be delivered in various lengths, profiles, and rifling twists, with or without iron sights, and with a matte or polished finish. The rifle is delivered from the factory with a stock made of walnut, laminate, plastic, or carbon fiber, with different shapes depending on the intended form of hunting or shooting discipline.

Reader's Guide

The Sako 85 represents a significant evolution in Sako's bolt-action rifle line, replacing the Sako 75 with a controlled-feed mechanism while retaining many design similarities. Its production from 2006 to 2022 spanned over 16 years, during which it was offered in over 1000 configurations, including models like the Finnlight and Carbonlight. The rifle's six receiver lengths, tailored to specific cartridge groups, reflect a design philosophy focused on optimizing bolt travel and weight for each chambering. The use of cold hammer-forged barrels, adjustable trigger, and proprietary integrated scope mount with a dovetail rail of varying width contributed to its reputation as a premium hunting rifle. The Sako 85's precision requirement of better than 30 mm at 100 meters (0.3 mrad) was verified through factory test firing with 5-round groups. Its legacy is carried forward by the Sako 100, which succeeded it at the end of 2022.

Did You Know?

• The Sako 85 name signifies that Sako celebrated 85 years in 2006.
• The rifle is available in over 1000 different configurations according to Sako.
• The receiver has a proprietary integrated scope mount with a dovetail rail that is narrower at the rear and wider at the front.