I’ve never really looked at the Browning rifles but I do have the full size Sako 270Wsm and really enjoy shooting it. I think it will be a handful for a 13 year old as B.C. mentioned but it all depends if he’s a big boy. The full size rifle would be a better choice and really isn’t that much heavier.

Beretta is the company that owns Sako and that is their policy not Sakos. If you like a gun that is made of extruded aluminum parts,cast parts and like a trigger that is rube goldberg inspired enjoy your browning.

My choice would be a Sako hands down over the Browning. I would recommend a wood stock over the synthetic and standard barrel over the fluted.

Sako all the way!!!! but you should consider buying a regular Sako 75 instead of the finnlight. In a couple of years your kid will be all grown up and maybe he will prefer a regular size/weight rifle.

Browning is not in the same league as Sako, but it is agood rifle anyway. It all depends on how much you want to spend.........Is Sako worth the extra 400+ bucks?......In my opinion, yes........

Agreed. I own a Browning A-bolt anda Sako 75. Nothing wrong with the Browning but the Sako is a higher grade of firearm. If money is no object then it's a no brainer, get the Sako. If money is a consideration then a Sako is a lotto spendfor a kids first rifle.

As for the barrel blow ups? That problem was limitedto onebatch of bad stainless steel used to manufacture some barrels. Those firearms have been recalled and there is no problem that I am aware of with any Sako rifles currently being produced. Despite that unfortunate episode I would trust Sako's quality control over most other firearms manufacturers out there.

Of the two sako by far, but also consider a tikka, about $500 less than sako yet still an excellent rifle, with a sako barrel. I bought my 12 year old son a tikka in 7mm-08 and he loves it! best value in a rifle for sure.

I'd choose the Sako.

I own a Tikka T3 Stainless .30-06. My original rifle was recalled. Just to clarify... I had to call the manufacturer after I read about on HNI. No letter from Beretta, Sako or Tikka.

Oh well. I still love the gun, particularly the new one. Plus, mine didn't blowup, andthey sent me a free knife, so they're alright in my book