From Iraqveteran8888: “In this video we showcase the Chinese Norinco SKS. This particular rifle is a commercial import which never saw military use such as the Chinese Type 56 rifles did. Occasionally these rifles can be found in pristine condition, all matching with the original stocks. A lot of people frown upon the SKS as a sub par rifle in form and function, but we beg to differ…they are great short range rifles that are lightweight, accurate, of moderate caliber, easy to handle with a very simple and intuitive manual of arms. Also, don’t think that because this was made in China that is is junk, the Chinese make an exceptional SKS.”
“lightweight?” Compared to a 56 Chevy maybe but not in my book. They are generally reliable and moderately accurate but not my first choice for anything other than plinking. Further, they are difficult to mount optics on and except for the few designed to accept magazines not super fast to reload. From the prices on them recently, why not spend a couple hundred more and buy an AR? Cheap .30 rifle yes but no real bargain these days.
That’s a nice SKS. It appears to have a threaded barrel and the infamous “French Tickler” upper hand guard (yes, that’s what it’s called). Looks like about 1980 production. The SKS is fun to collect since there are a lot of variants and they are relatively affordable, although some of the minty Russians and rare birds will go for over $1K. Thanks for the review.
My first rifle was a Yugo SKS and I still love that thing. Being the Yugo, it’s got a heavier barrel and overall weighs a bit more than the others, but it’s a lot of fun. Very soft shooting rifle for the caliber, 7.62×39 is still relatively inexpensive. Takedown/maintenance is fairly intuitive and easy, which is good because it runs pretty dirty.
The SKS rifle was produced in several countries other than China. Russia / Soviet Union was first, it is their design. The SKS was also made in Romania, Yugoslavia, Albania, North Korea, North Vietnam and East Germany. The Polish SKS was Russian made in a Polish Laminated stock.
I have one of these. I like it but I can’t get any good accuracy passed 25 yards or so. I even put a scope on it….not so good either. I have a 30 round mag but can’t get it to take more than 10 rounds or so. But I got it dirt cheap and it goes bang every time….so its kind of a last ditch gun. Would like to be able to shoot it a little bit more since ammo is somewhat cheap.
Bought one in the niddle 90’s A rifle which throws lead reliably. Shoulda bought a dozen!
Those detachable mags are mostly junk, and unless you make the thing 922 compliant, not allowed to be used.
Though most folk don’t know that.
Stick with the stock 10 shot magazine and get a pile of stripper clips.