Tikka M28

[cj1964]

I got a call from a friend/fellow collector who's been having health problems. A big pile of doctor bills prompted him to offer me an M28. Since it was a model I didn't have I had to go take a look! To be honest, I didn't know what I was buying except that it had a Tikka barrel and appeared to be an original "survivor".
After a little research I discovered that I bought a rifle from the final production run of M28's (s/n 30101-33016). The final contract was placed in October 1931, but production delays make it difficult to say exactly when it was made. The SAKO gear is actually part of the serial number. Some of these later models came with M28/30 stocks and/or rear sights, but this is a standard M28 and doesn't even have a jam-free magazine. It's got an SA stamp, so it was transferred to the army at some point but doesn't appear to have been reworked... except for maybe the stock.
I didn't take a close up, but the stock has a boxed AV number and crossed cannon makers mark. Does anyone know if these stocks came on civil guard rifles? I'm thinking it may have been an army stock that was added later, but I don't know for sure. There is no SYT mark in the finger groove. The overall finish is matte, except for around the wrist area where it's got a nice shiny petina from actual use.
I offered him $420 which I thought was fair to both of us. Now that I know what I have I think I got a good deal!
Comments/opinions are welcome - thanks.

[jimpierce7]

ok. That rifle looks "old". I love it!!

[Junk Yard Dog]

Good deal.

[h bone]

I say a very good deal. You don't see that sako gear wheel on m28s, that is uncommon.

[Joeinthehills]

Nice looking M28
Resembles mine which is S/N 31264 w/ the Sako mark before the ser. no. and an S after.
Also has the Tikka T inside of the upside down triangle, and has 2 D's stamped on the top of the barrel.
Includes that little "KE" mark above the serial no. like yours has.
There is a s/n stamped in the stock, but doesn't match the barrel.

[redspoon]

Good deal and helped out a friend in need also very nice rifle, congrats. That sling is pretty cool also.

[djbuck1]

Very nice M28. I think you got a great deal.

[bunkysdad]

Oh yeah she's a nice one. This represents the best way to buy when the rare chance presents itself. The only milsurp I have bought from a friend is a Chinese Mauser, but I have acquired several less milsurply firearms from friends. Isn't it fun? :P8-)

[cjsimoh]

Nice one again! I wouldn't think you had room for more... You must have them stacked to the ceiling!

[davesstuff1]

[Titanium Hammer]

Very nice addition to the collection, congrats!

[desdem12]

Oh ya, that's the good stuff alright. Nice deal.