From everything I have read it usually goes like this....
Russian SKS scale worst to best
Refurb black bolt- Mixed parts and every thing is spray painted black, Its a good shooter but it looks crappy and the parts may not fit well since they are a mixed batch. "this ones a pure shooter"
Refurb silver bolt- metal is all matching and looks great "shooter or collector"
Non refurb- same as refurb silver bolt but with no refurb stamp and stock is 100% original "collectors gun"
If you want a really nice looking shooter get a refurb silver bolt.
http://www.canadiangunnutz.com/forum...d.php?t=445921
Here's a great sticky on SKS basics...
http://www.canadiangunnutz.com/forum...ad.php?t=81240