The SAKO 85 Stainless VARMINT in .223 Remington has an action designated "S" for short.

Traditional SAKO features listed below are standard on Sako 85 Stainless Varmint rifles.

• action sizes matched to cartridges
• mechanical ejection
• integral tapered scope mount rail.
• additionally there is controlled feed on all models to ensure reliable cartridge feed to the chamber in all situations (Pat.pend.).
• the safety features a mechanism that allows loading and unloading of the rifle with safety engaged.
• the steel magazine is detachable and can also be loaded through the ejection port.
• magazine release is prevented against accidental release (Pat. pend.).
• the single-set trigger pull is adjustable from 1 kg to 2 kg (2 to 4 lbs).
• the straight, laminated walnut STOCK with wide fore-end is oilfinished. Strong, extended recoil lug screwed on the fore-end.