State Rifle Factory

The State Rifle Factory is a former weapons manufacturing complex in Jyväskylä comprising multiple buildings with distinct production areas. The facility was designed by architect Urho Åberg and initially relied on machinery imported from the United States.

The facility opened in 1926 and produced military weapons such as the Lahti-Saloranta M/26 light machine gun and the Lahti L-39 anti-tank rifle until 1946. Production ceased as Finland's political situation shifted after World War II.

The factory buildings reflect Finnish industrial design of the 1920s and show the country's role in military manufacturing during that era. They reveal how weapons production was woven into the nation's industrial identity.

The complex sits close to downtown Jyväskylä with the Tourujoki river creating a natural boundary between the site and the city center. The former factory buildings remain visible and accessible for viewing from the surrounding area.

Rather than closing after World War II, the factory was repurposed and later produced tractors and industrial machines under the Valmet corporation name. This transformation reveals how Finnish industry reinvented itself and shifted manufacturing toward peacetime production.

Location: Jyväskylä

Inception: 1926

Architects: Urho Åberg

Part of: Sotatarviketeollisuuden alueet

GPS coordinates: 62.24820,25.76610

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:07