What is the Sako Finnlight 2? Why was it a top highlight of 2025?
29-Dec-2025
Chris Cooper
The Sako Finnlight 2 refers to the latest iteration of Sako's lightweight hunting rifle series, showcased as a standout new model at the Great British Shooting Show 2025, held in February at the NEC in Birmingham.
This bolt-action rifle, part of the Sako 90 family, emphasises durability, ergonomics, and performance in harsh conditions, with features like a textured synthetic stock, adjustable cheekpiece, and a multi-adjustable trigger.
It gained attention at the show for its balance of lightness (around 3.2-3.8 kg) and accuracy, making it ideal for UK hunters dealing with variable weather and terrain, while aligning with trends toward versatile, weather-resistant firearms.
Priced around £1,899, it's positioned as a premium yet value-driven option for deer stalking and other pursuits.
Background & details
The Finnlight 2 builds on the legacy of the Sako 85 Finnlight II, updating it with modern materials and ergonomics for 2025; it's part of Sako's 90 series, known for precision engineering from Finland.
At the Great British Shooting Show 2025, it was highlighted for its all-new features, allowing visitors to handle the rifle and appreciate its 70-degree bolt throw and exceptional trigger feel.
Reviews praise its construction for active hunters, noting it's well-suited to UK conditions with stainless steel parts and a composite stock that withstands wet weather without compromising on accuracy.
How does the Sako Finnlight 2 rifle work?
The Finnlight 2 is designed for seamless operation in the field.
Barrel Cold hammer-forged, fluted stainless steel for reduced weight and improved cooling; lengths vary (e.g., 508-620 mm) with muzzle threads (M15x1 or 5/8"-24) for suppressors.
Stock Composite with a textured finish and synthetic leather on the pistol grip and forend for secure handling; includes a spring-loaded adjustable cheekpiece for quick optic alignment.
Action and Trigger Push-feed bolt action with a 70-degree throw for fast cycling; multi-adjustable trigger (2-4 lbs) with five pull-weight settings and adjustable blade position.
Other Specs: Integrated Picatinny rail for optics; QD sling sockets; magazine capacity of 4-5 rounds; available in calibers like .308 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, and .30-06 Springfield.
It delivers out-of-the-box accuracy, with reviews noting tight groupings and reliable performance for humane kills.
Impacts on rifle owners
For UK hunters and shooters:
Lightweight Design At 3.2-3.8 kg, it's easy to carry on long stalks, reducing fatigue while maintaining balance for offhand shots; ideal for hilly terrain common in the UK.
Performance Exceptional accuracy and weather resistance make it suitable for deer management or vermin control, though its lightness may increase felt recoil in larger calibers.
Overall, it enhances mobility without sacrificing quality, but owners may need to test non-lead ammo compatibility amid 2025 trends; platforms like Rightgun.uk list similar rifles for comparison.
Important legal context (UK Firearms Law)
Ownership of the Sako Finnlight 2 falls under UK regulations.
Requires a Section 1 Firearm Certificate (FAC) for possession and use, with "good reason" such as deer stalking or target shooting demonstrated to police.
Calibres like .308 must comply with minimum muzzle energy requirements for deer (e.g., 1,700 ft-lbs in England/Wales); secure storage is mandatory.
As a new model in 2025, it's fully legal for licensed users; organisations like BASC provide guidance on applications and compliance.
What are the alternatives?
Tikka T3x Lite for budget options or Blaser R8 for modular designs; compare weights and features for UK hunting needs.
Summary
The Sako Finnlight 2 is:
A lightweight, durable bolt-action hunting rifle from Sako's 90 series, featuring a composite stock, adjustable trigger, and fluted barrel.
Phased with calibres suited to UK hunting, weighing 3.2-3.8 kg for mobility.
A strong choice for deer stalkers - check Rightgun.uk for listings, search for "Sako Finnlight" to find dealer listings, prices, and used options.
Explore Sako Rifles at Rightgun.uk
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