SKS Variants and Value

[thegazelle]

the markings around the cross-bolt are re-furb or inspector markings? thanks very much for the info

I believe the cross-bolt cartouches are inspector markings. Definitely not refurb markings. The inspector mark may also be on the right side of the stock.

Typically your refurb markings would be in other places like on the dustcover (diamond/square with a diagonal line through it), and parts of the stock (near the left hand side where the arsenal symbol, year and s/n area), in addition to the previous s/n Xed out.

Personally, unless there are ample photos, I heavily prefer to buy in person and preferably from another collector. Many people take photos of inconsequential parts of the rifle, neglecting to take photos of the parts that would help identify it as a refurb. Or maybe that is also an intentional omission. Some buyers, unfortunately, don't know what to look for and are smitten with the "all numbers match!" "unfired!" type of descriptors.

 

[MattAllen1]

I believe the cross-bolt cartouches are inspector markings. Definitely not refurb markings. The inspector mark may also be on the right side of the stock.

Typically your refurb markings would be in other places like on the dustcover (diamond/square with a diagonal line through it), and parts of the stock (near the left hand side where the arsenal symbol, year and s/n area), in addition to the previous s/n Xed out.

Personally, unless there are ample photos, I heavily prefer to buy in person and preferably from another collector. Many people take photos of inconsequential parts of the rifle, neglecting to take photos of the parts that would help identify it as a refurb. Or maybe that is also an intentional omission. Some buyers, unfortunately, don't know what to look for and are smitten with the "all numbers match!" "unfired!" type of descriptors.

ok good to know. I thought inspector, but wasn't definitive

and I 100% agree and have encountered that too many times recently. Also happened a few times where I've asked for pictures explicitly mentioning the dust cover or manufacturer stamp and have gotten every picture but that. Frustrating, but is why I'm here trying to get smarter.