Tips for buying an SKS

[jumpingjackflatch]

I am a pistol guy and was thinking of purchasing an SKS as my first real rifle. I have a 10/22 but that obviously doesn't count. I have browsed posts here where they talk about refurbished, laminated stock,
matching numbers, chrome lined barrels, Chinese, Russian, Tula arsenal, year of manufacture, different markings etc. My question is, is there an online guide or list of things to look for when purchasing an SKS? It seems a bit like
buying a used car, in the dark. Any suggestions would be very helpful.

 

[Brodie720]

Are u looking for a collector or a shooter.

 

[jumpingjackflatch]

I really would just like a shooter that looks good and shoots well. I could use tips on pitfalls and common defects to avoid.

 

[nick237]

Chinese sks

 

[Stripes]

Honestly you can't really go wrong. Just check to make sure everything is tight (gas tubes tend to woble) and there isn't any rust on it. And even with that said, my best shooting SKS has a wobbly gas tube and it was really rusty (all cleaned up now however)

Laminated stocks are allegedly a bit tougher and the chrome lined bore helps prevent rust. All Russians after 1950 (or 51, I forget) should be chrome lined but anything is possible. Some people say the non chrome lined bores shoot better but it's an SKS, don't expect amazing accuracy

You can get really bogged down in all the details. My suggestion is that if you're looking for a shooter just go buy the one you like the best and have fun with it!

 

[Bubba Yugga]

Memorize everything on this website http://yooperj.com/ , and then buy it.

 

[Keep6]

Yooperj

Buy Russian and buy two. Shoot them and have fun.

 

[StoneHorse]

<snip> I am a pistol guy and was thinking of purchasing an SKS as my first real rifle. I have a 10/22 but that obviously doesn't count

I have to disagree the .22LR is not a real rifle.

 

[jumpingjackflatch]

I have to disagree the .22LR is not a real rifle.

Sorry, that was an unintentional dis to rimfire lovers. I actually love shooting .22lr. I have put at least 15k rounds through my 10/22. I would just like to get my first centre fire rifle.

 

[marc_j]

Post mid 1951 are chrome lined bores which resist corrosion which can be a plus. In practice, however, the gas system is more prone to corrosion than the bore so a chrome lined bore does not eliminate the need for prompt and effective cleaning when using corrosive ammunition.
1950 and early 1951 have a firing pin return spring which is considered by some "safer" as a precaution against slam fires that occur very, very rarely (and are almost universally associated with poor cleaning and maintenance). I like the 1950 version because the extractor can be readily be removed to allow better access for cleaning. Post 1950 the extractor can only be removed by driving out the force fit pin; this should not be done frequently to avoid reducing the retention force.
The SKS is extremely rugged and well designed. You can't really go wrong if you use the same common sense criteria that you would use to evaluate any used gun purchase. Careful initial cleaning of the breech block and firing pin assembly is a must for safe operation.