Year doesn't matter unless you're a collector. For me I like 1952 for the FF firing pin and nicer gas block. That's kind of irrelevant for you. All military SKS are good. They are super tough and reliable no matter the year or country of origin. Just don't buy a commercial Chinese SKS. Those were the only low quality ones made. You can spot them a mile away with a blade bayonet, very shiny smooth finish with an almost orange tinge. The wood grain looks more like a lighter north american birch and they say SKS and MADE IN CHINA on the side of the receiver. The Chinese military SKS on the market right now with spike bayonets, flat bottom for end and factory symbol/serial number on the reciever are just as well made as the Russian SKS. Just not as pretty as Joce mentioned. The Chinese have little collector value so you can feel less guilty about chopping one up and having your way with it.