Otis, sorry to offend you but, yes, compared to a barrel by custom makers like Hart, Lilja, Shilen, Kreiger, etc. a sako barrel is a tent stake just as are most all factory barrels. I'm happy yours shoots well, you got lucky. I was not denigrating sako, notice I said JKT could have his rifle built on the action of his choice for $1600. And yes, I have handled and shot sakos. They're decent rifles (although I don't particulary like the scope mounting system) but there's no way I'd trade my custom M70 for one.

Also, JKT lists his location as USA, so your comparing the price of your rifles in canadian money is a little off base.