Sako S20 Rifle: A Deep Dive Review for Hunters and Precision Shooters The Sako S20 has made a significant splash in the bolt-action rifle market, appealing to both seasoned hunters and precision shooting enthusiasts. This rifle represents a departure from traditional Sako designs, offering a modular platform and features that cater to modern shooting demands. Let's break down the Sako S20, exploring its features, performance, and suitability for various shooting applications. Overview: A Hybrid Rifle for the Modern Shooter The Sako S20 is designed as a true hybrid rifle, intended to bridge the gap between hunting functionality and precision shooting capabilities. Its core strength lies in its modularity, allowing shooters to adapt the rifle to different scenarios and preferences. Sako aimed to create a rifle that feels at home on a mountain hunt as well as on a long-range target range. Key Features and Specifications: Modular Chassis: This is the heart of the S20's adaptability. The rifle features an aluminum chassis that provides a solid foundation for accuracy and allows for easy stock and forend swaps. Interchangeable Stocks: Hunter Stock: Designed for comfortable carrying and quick shouldering. Features a traditional hunting-style profile. Precision Stock: Features an adjustable cheekpiece, adjustable length-of-pull, and a more vertical grip for enhanced stability and improved ergonomics when shooting from prone or supported positions. Cold Hammer-Forged Barrel: Sako is renowned for its high-quality barrels, and the S20 is no exception. The cold hammer-forged barrels ensure exceptional accuracy and consistent performance. Adjustable Trigger: The S20 features a crisp, adjustable trigger, allowing shooters to fine-tune the trigger pull weight to their preference. Cerakote Finish: The metal components of the S20 are treated with a Cerakote finish, providing excellent corrosion resistance and durability in harsh environmental conditions. Magazine System: The S20 utilizes a detachable magazine system, offering convenient and reliable feeding. Receiver: The receiver is machined from high-quality steel and provides a rigid platform for the bolt and barrel. Available Calibers: The Sako S20 is offered in a range of popular calibers, catering to diverse hunting and shooting needs. Common calibers include: .243 Winchester .270 Winchester 6.5 Creedmoor .308 Winchester .30-06 Springfield 7mm Remington Magnum .300 Winchester Magnum Barrel Lengths: Barrel lengths typically range from 20" to 24", depending on the caliber and intended use. Shorter barrels offer increased maneuverability, while longer barrels can provide enhanced velocity and accuracy at longer ranges. Systems and Design: Bolt Action: The S20 uses a push-feed bolt action with three locking lugs. This design contributes to smooth cycling and reliable lockup. Receiver Mounting: The S20 has an integral Picatinny rail on top of the receiver for easy scope mounting. Performance and Accuracy: The Sako S20 is capable of excellent accuracy, often delivering sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) performance with quality ammunition. Factors affecting accuracy include: Barrel Quality: Sako's cold hammer-forged barrels are known for their consistent dimensions and smooth bore, contributing to excellent accuracy. Chassis Rigidity: The aluminum chassis provides a stable platform, minimizing flex and vibration during firing. Trigger Quality: The adjustable trigger allows for precise trigger control, which is essential for consistent accuracy. Ammunition Selection: Choosing high-quality ammunition that is well-suited to the rifle's barrel twist rate is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy. Effective Range: The effective range of the Sako S20 depends on the caliber, ammunition, and shooter's skill. Here's a general guideline: .243 Winchester, .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor: Effective out to 800-1000 yards for target shooting, and suitable for medium-sized game hunting within ethical hunting ranges (typically within 400 yards). .270 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield: Good for hunting medium to large game at moderate ranges (up to 500 yards). Can be used for target shooting out to 800 yards. 7mm Remington Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum: Capable of long-range hunting and target shooting, with effective ranges extending beyond 1000 yards. Hunting Applications: The Sako S20 is a versatile hunting rifle suitable for a wide range of game, depending on the caliber selected: Small to Medium Game (e.g., Deer, Antelope, Hogs): .243 Winchester, .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, .270 Winchester. Big Game (e.g., Elk, Moose, Bear): .30-06 Springfield, 7mm Remington Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum. Real-World Reviews and User Feedback: Overall, user feedback on the Sako S20 is generally positive. Shooters appreciate the rifle's accuracy, modularity, and build quality. Common praises include: Excellent Accuracy: Many users report achieving sub-MOA accuracy with factory ammunition. Smooth Action: The bolt action is smooth and reliable. Adjustable Trigger: The adjustable trigger is a popular feature. Modularity: The ability to swap stocks and forends is highly valued. Some common criticisms include: Price: The Sako S20 is a premium rifle and comes with a higher price tag than some competitors. Weight: Some users find the S20 to be slightly heavier than other hunting rifles. Magazine Cost: Additional magazines can be expensive. Pros and Cons: Pros: Exceptional accuracy Modular design for adaptability High-quality barrel and action Adjustable trigger Durable Cerakote finish Excellent ergonomics (especially with the precision stock) Cons: Relatively high price. Can be slightly heavy for some hunters. Magazine cost. Some users find the stock swap process a bit cumbersome. Conclusion: The Sako S20 is a well-designed and executed rifle that offers a compelling blend of hunting and precision shooting capabilities.