Sako Carbonlight

[Xbolt300wm]

I am thinking about purchasing a Sako Carbonlight. I am having a tough time selecting the caliber and as this is such an expensive gun its likey I only had one kick of the can on this one. I have 2 Sako 85's already, a Black Bear in a 30/06 and a Kodiak in a 338 WM. I am thinking that A 7 mm Rem Mag is a great caliber for the mountain rifle (Carbonlight) and I can trade or sell the 30/06 to get a 7mm-08.

I had contemplated the 260 Rem and the 7mm-08, but feel they don't have enough punch after the 400 yard mark (Rarely shoot that far when hunting, but like the capacity to do so). In addition, its nice to have the extra oomph should I cross paths with a Grizzly out in the mountains.

The gun would be used for Elk and Sheep, if I did go with the 7mm-08 Sheep and Deer

thoughts?

[mightybuck]

7 mm R.E.M. Mag is the only caliber to use. Go buy it

[3blade]

I'm a big fan of lightweight rifles, but in standard calibers. 6.2 lbs bare (7 Mag version) probably 7.5-8 lbs scoped and loaded. Have you ever fired a 7 Rem Mag in that weight class? Some can, some can't. I wouldn't want to. You already have a black bear which has significant overlap...I'd be surprised if you managed to save more than one pound total difference between the 7 mag carbon and your 30-06. The other 2 (260 and 7-08) would be better suited and significantly lighter, probably in the 6-6.5 lb range finished, and that fills a different spot in the lineup. with the right bullet all are fully capable at 400.

Another thing to consider, is the carbonlight really worth the price? $4g + for an 85 with a carbon stock...? You're into cooper or custom territory at that price, and just a little short of NULA, MOA etc. which gives you a lot more options and will outshoot any factory Sako.

There's nothing wrong with the carbonlight. And if that's what you want, because you want it, don't let me or anyone tell you otherwise. Just make sure you run the numbers so you are happy with your decision.

[elkhunter11]

The thing that I really don't like about the carbonlight, is the abnormally long LOP. My friend bought one that measures almost 14-1/2". It did limit his options for mounting a scope with the proper eye relief.

[mad mountain mike]

What's the weight and price tag on this rifle? I have the browning X bolt carbon fibre stainless fluted. It weighs 6 1/2 pounds and the price tag was right around $1200 at bashaw sports a couple years ago. That leaves some scratch left over for pretty good optics to top it with. Mine is chambered in a 300wsm, it shoots nice and felt recoil is very managable with the factory pad.

[3blade]

Originally Posted by mad mountain mike

What's the weight and price tag on this rifle? I have the browning X bolt carbon fibre stainless fluted. It weighs 6 1/2 pounds and the price tag was right around $1200 at bashaw sports a couple years ago. That leaves some scratch left over for pretty good optics to top it with. Mine is chambered in a 300wsm, it shoots nice and felt recoil is very managable with the factory pad.

Carbonlight: $3900 + or -, pre tax, 1 moa (1 inch) guarantee
Short action: 20 inch barrel, 5 lbs
Long action: 24 inch barrel, 6.2 lbs

For comparison - NULA: $4400 cad + tax and shipping, short action 5 lbs, usually a 1/2 inch gun.
MOA: $4500-7500, pick your flavor. Guaranteed 1/2 inch. There's obviously others in this range as well, but it shows how close the carbonlight comes in price to a true top end rig. We're a few steps above the xbolt. Lightweight sheep rifles are expensive.

[Xbolt300wm]

Originally Posted by elkhunter11

The thing that I really don't like about the carbonlight, is the abnormally long LOP. My friend bought one that measures almost 14-1/2". It did limit his options for mounting a scope with the proper eye relief.

How did your friend feel about the rifle otherwise. Certainly the eye relief is an area of concern given the caliber and expected usage (possible shooting uphill on an incline).

[Daka]

6.5 swede or 308, dont need any extra in lgt.wgt.rifle

[elkhunter11]

Originally Posted by Xbolt300wm

How did your friend feel about the rifle otherwise. Certainly the eye relief is an area of concern given the caliber and expected usage (possible shooting uphill on an incline).

He sold it before even firing it due to the LOP.

[CrisPbacon]

Originally Posted by Xbolt300wm

I am thinking about purchasing a Sako Carbonlight. I am having a tough time selecting the caliber and as this is such an expensive gun its likey I only had one kick of the can on this one. I have 2 Sako 85's already, a Black Bear in a 30/06 and a Kodiak in a 338 WM. I am thinking that A 7 mm Rem Mag is a great caliber for the mountain rifle (Carbonlight) and I can trade or sell the 30/06 to get a 7mm-08.

I had contemplated the 260 Rem and the 7mm-08, but feel they don't have enough punch after the 400 yard mark (Rarely shoot that far when hunting, but like the capacity to do so). In addition, its nice to have the extra oomph should I cross paths with a Grizzly out in the mountains.

The gun would be used for Elk and Sheep, if I did go with the 7mm-08 Sheep and Deer

thoughts?

I'd go with the 300 WM

[Prairiekid]

I bought a used Finnlight in 7mm-08. It’s a great little gun. I topped mine with a 3i 3.5-10*40. If I decide to lighten it up a bit it’s going to wear a Wildcat stock.

[WinefredCommander]

Originally Posted by CrisPbacon

I'd go with the 300 WM

.260 Carbonlight oh my!! WHERE!?!