Finnish M39 quality question

[Danus ex]

Are there any noticeable differences in quality between the different makers of/markings on Finn M39s? (Sako, SKY, VKT, Tikka, B, no maker.) I do know that the no maker M39s were built well after the Winter and Continuation wars, though I don't know if that has an impact on quality.

 

[DMK]

No, not much difference at all really. I have a Belgian barreled M39 that has a bronze colored hue in the blueing on the barrel, but other than that(which is a characteristic that makes them collectable), it's very nicely made. Just as nice as my Sako Civil Guard rifle.

I doubt that it's ever been proven that M39s from the 60's and 70's shoot better. Mine shoots well, but so do my other two WWII M39s.

The reason some M39s are more collectable and more expensive has to do with historical attributes, not quality. For example, Tikka's are rare, so very expensive.

 

[Danus ex]

Thanks DMK--looks like I can just pick the nicest-looking one at the local dealer.

I have a Belgian barreled M39 that has a bronze colored hue in the blueing on the barrel

I think I've seen something like this before on a Finn. It had sort of a purple barrel.

 

[Cosmoline]

I have a running theory that the SkY's are better because the Civil Guard was more likely to send substandard rifles back to Sako. But it's just a theory.

 

[DMK]

I think I've seen something like this before on a Finn. It had sort of a purple barrel.

Yes, they also have a 'B' stamped on the barrel, hence the "B Barrel" moniker.

looks like I can just pick the nicest-looking one at the local dealer.

That's probably your best bet for a nice keeper and shooter. If you are looking for resale value, then get something unique like a Tikka or SkY.