SAKO Launches the Arctic Rifle Generation (ARG): Ushering in a New Era of Military Rifle Systems
SAKO proudly announces the launch of the Sako ARG – Arctic Rifle Generation, a next-generation full-auto rifle system developed in close collaboration with the Finnish and Swedish Defence Forces.
SAKO launches three different models under the Sako ARG family. Sako ARG 40 GP (Gas piston) and DI (Direct impingement) in 5.56x45 Nato. Also Sako ARG 50 GP introduced in 7.62x51 Nato.
Riihimäki, Finland – August 25th, 2025.
Designed to replace legacy assault rifles, the ARG platform is purpose-built for Arctic warfare and tested to NATO D14 standards, delivering unmatched reliability, modularity, and mission adaptability for military and law enforcement professionals.
The Sako ARG is based on the proven AR-15 platform, enhanced with advanced engineering to meet the demands of modern combat. It features two distinct operating systems: a short-stroke gas piston system for extreme environments, reducing heat and carbon buildup for maximum reliability—and a direct impingement system for a lighter, more streamlined design with refined accuracy and a smoother shooting experience.
“The SAKO ARG is more than a rifle, it’s a mission-ready system designed to protect what matters most,” said Juuso Austin, Business Unit Director at SAKO. “It’s built for those who operate where others hesitate.”
Purpose-built for the modern war fighter.
The ARG is fully ambidextrous, with safety selectors, magazine releases, and bolt catch mechanisms, ensuring intuitive operation for both left- and right-handed users. This design supports fast, instinctive handling in high-pressure scenarios.
Each rifle is equipped with a SAKO match-grade trigger unit, delivering a clean, consistent break for enhanced accuracy and control. The cold-hammer forged barrel, crafted from high-grade materials and hard-chrome lined, provides long-term durability and maintaining accuracy over thousands of rounds.
The ARG’s modular architecture includes a configurable rear stock and forend, with standardized mounting systems such as Picatinny, M-LOK, and AR-compatible components. Operators can easily attach optics, thermals, lasers, and other tactical accessories, tailoring the rifle to mission-specific profiles. Key components are interoperable with standard AR-15 systems, simplifying maintenance and logistics, even in crisis scenarios.
“We designed the ARG to give clients the freedom to choose the right configuration for their needs,” said Sami Vaajamo, Senior Product Group Manager at SAKO. “Whether you're in a frozen tundra or a dense urban environment, the ARG adapts without compromise.”
SAKO ARG MODELS
Sako ARG 40 GP
This rifle is built for combat and proven to endure Arctic cold, saltwater exposure, and deep mud.
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Sako ARG 40 DI
This rifle is built with simplicity and purpose, offering lightweight handling and smooth recoil when lives are on the line.
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Sako ARG 50 GP
Accuracy matters—and this rifle delivers it with optimized handling, stability, and trust in every trigger pull.
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Tested. Trusted. Tactical.
The ARG rifles have undergone rigorous testing in Arctic, muddy, and sandy conditions, ensuring operational readiness in the harshest environments. Designed as a complete system replacement, the ARG integrates seamlessly with allied weapon systems and supports full lifecycle management, including training, maintenance, and modernization.
“The development of the SAKO ARG platform began over a decade ago with a clear mission: to create a modern, modular rifle system capable of replacing legacy assault rifles across military and law enforcement forces,” said Miikka Tamminen, R&D Director at SAKO. “From day one, we prioritized real-world performance. That meant working hand-in-hand with professional users from defense organizations, incorporating their feedback into every design iteration—from ergonomics and modularity to reliability and maintainability.”
“The ARG has been tested far beyond standard requirements. In addition to rigorous NATO D14 environmental and durability testing, we push our rifles to failure in-house to understand their true limits. These insights are not just data—they’re design tools that help us build a stronger, more resilient system.”
Beyond the rifle, SAKO offers a full ecosystem of compatible accessories, including optics, thermal and night vision systems, laser designators, and tactical cases, delivered through a trusted global partner network.
Each ARG system is supported by a full lifecycle management program, including operator and armorer training, spare parts provisioning, and modernization services. SAKO also offers a complete ecosystem of compatible accessories through its global partner network, ensuring seamless integration and long-term operational readiness.
About us.
Sako is one the world’s most prestigious rifle and cartridge brands. Our acclaimed reputation, high quality products and credibility are rooted in our employees’ unique skills and pride in what they do.
Established in 1921, Sako has an eventful history. First created to refurbish and service firearms for the Civil Guard in Finland, Sako has played a key role in Finland’s defence and has been trusted supplier to dozens of defence departments around the world.
Over the years the company has consistently grown by focusing on production excellence, honoring its dedicated craftsman and personnel, and providing innovative solutions to shooters’ emerging needs.
For decades Sako has developed world-class military, target and hunting rifles, as well as cartridges. By integrating its knowledge of both the rifle and cartridge production, Sako brand can offer a shooter the unique advantages of uncompromising accuracy and reliability. Our main fields of operation include the design, production, marketing and global sales of military, hunting and sporting rifles as well as cartridges.
In 2000, Sako joined Beretta Holding Group, a company with unique firearms traditions reaching all the way back to 1526. This cooperation provides Sako with the unique capability to provide comprehensive, all-encompassing solutions and systems for our customers.
Now Sako looks ahead more confidently than ever. We proudly carry on the rifle manufacturing knowledge and skills, with the utmost respect towards the surrounding nature.
About Beretta Defense Technologies
BDT – Beretta Defense Technologies is the strategic alliance of Beretta Holding companies that provide products and services to enable superior performance in the Defense and Law Enforcement communities. State-of-the-art machinery, extensive research and development capabilities, and long-standing worldwide experiences allow BDT-member company products to respond to the ever-changing needs of defense and security personnel. Together, they offer one of the most complete offerings in the industry: including various services, firearms, ammunition, optics and electro-optics as well as tactical clothing.