The Rare "Ghost" of Tikkakoski “Tikka” Shotgun 16/70 (Pre-SAKO)

The Purest Expression of Finnish Post-War Craftsmanship

Before the modern T3x and the Sako mergers, there was the Tikkakoski m/49. Produced for a razor-thin window between 1949 and 1953, the M49 represents a pivotal moment in Finnish firearms history. While Tikka was under Soviet administration and forced to pivot to sewing machine production, a small team of master gunsmiths hand-built a limited run of these high-quality side-by-sides.

The "Gentleman’s Gauge" Heritage

In post-war Finland, the 16-gauge was the gold standard for the discerning woodsman. It allowed for a slimmer, more elegant receiver and a perfectly balanced swing that 12-gauge models often lacked. To find a 16ga M49 in Canada today—especially in this condition—is to find a needle in a haystack.

Rarity by the Numbers

• Total Production: Only ~2,500 units were ever produced.

• The Original Configuration: This 16ga (70mm/2 ¾") represents the exact specification favored by Finnish hunters of the 1950s.

• The "Unicorn" Status: These were never officially imported to North America in volume. This is likely a private "bring-back," making it a centerpiece for any Tikka or European shotgun collection. This particular gun was recently imported and is one of one.

Condition Report (Very Good)

• Action: Genuine Anson & Deeley boxlock. The lock-up is vault-tight with zero "play"—a testament to the over-built Finnish engineering.

• Bores: very shiney and in great condition.

• Aesthetics: Deep, original factory blueing with the iconic "T in Triangle" Tikkakoski logo stamped sharply on the water table and barrels.

• Furniture: Original Finnish walnut stock with the period-correct slim profile. It retains the original Tikka-logo buttplate—a detail often lost to time.

Why This Piece?

Modern Tikka rifles are world-class, but the M49 is where the legend of their civilian resilience began. This isn't just a shotgun; it’s a 16-gauge time capsule from the most tumultuous and fascinating era of the Tikkakoski factory.

$1250 and shipping is $25.

Open to reasonable offers or trades for milsurps.