Sako S20: A Precision-Crafted Rifle for the Discerning Shooter
As an avid firearm enthusiast, I was thrilled to get my hands on the Sako S20 for a thorough review. Sako, a renowned Finnish firearms manufacturer, has a reputation for producing top-notch rifles that meet the needs of serious shooters. In this review, I’ll be sharing my experience with the S20, highlighting its features, benefits, and any notable aspects that set it apart from other rifles in its class.
Design and Build Quality
The S20 is a precision-crafted rifle that exudes craftsmanship. Its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to handle and shoot, with a overall length of 40.7 inches and a weight of 8.7 pounds. The rifle’s lightweight, yet robust, due to its Anschütz-style synthetic stock which is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use.
- Ergonomic Design: The S20’s grip is angled to fit naturally in the shoulder, reducing recoil and improving shooting comfort.
- Hand-Filling Rubber Grip: The grip is coated with a rubberized material, providing a non-slip surface for optimal control.
- Recoil Pad: A built-in recoil pad helps to reduce muzzle jump and kick.
Ammunition and Magazine
The S20 is chambered for the popular 308 Win, 243 Win, and 6.5 Creedmoor cartridges. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of hunting and target shooting applications.
- 10-Round Magazine: The magazine is a generously sized 10-round capacity, allowing for extended shooting sessions without the need to reload.
- Ejection System: The S20 features a smooth, reliable ejection system, ensuring proper magazine seating every time.
Optics and Sights
The S20 is equipped with a 1-inch, 11 mm, threaded for a optic of your choice. The rifle also features a folding, low-profile, 1/8-inch (2 mm) Picatinny rail that allows for easy mounting of your favorite accessories.
- Threaded Barrel: The threaded barrel is perfect for attaching a suppressor, muzzle brake, or night vision device.
- Picatinny Rail: A low-profile rail provides a solid foundation for your scope, reducing the risk of wobble or movement during use.
Performance and Accuracy
I had the opportunity to test the S20 at the range, and I was blown away by its accuracy and performance. Here are some key takeaways:
- Accuracy: The S20 consistently produced 0.5 MOA groups at 100 yards with both factory and handloads, demonstrating exceptional accuracy and reliability.
- Muzzle Velocity: The rifle’s 20-inch barrel delivered a respectable 2,600 fps with the 180-grain load, providing ample energy for its chosen cartridges.
- Sound Suppression: The threaded barrel and integral recoil pad made the shooting experience surprisingly quiet, reducing the need for ear protection.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Excellent accuracy and performance
- Versatile ammunition options (308 Win, 243 Win, and 6.5 Creedmoor)
- Durable and ergonomic design
- Smooth ejection system
- Threaded barrel for suppressor or night vision device use
- Cons:
- High price point for some shooters
- Barrel length may be too long for those with limited carry distances
- Picatinny rail can be a bit narrow for some optics
Conclusion
The S20 is an exceptional rifle for serious shooters and hunting enthusiasts. Its exceptional accuracy, versatile ammunition capabilities, and durable design make it an attractive choice for a wide range of applications. While it may not be for everyone, those willing to invest in a high-quality rifle will be rewarded with a shooting experience that is unparalleled in the market.
If you’re in the market for a premium rifle that can keep up with your shooting needs, look no further than the Sako S20. Its impressive performance, ergonomic design, and attention to detail make it a worthwhile investment for any serious shooter.
