School me on the SKS

[Guest Fuel]

Heading to the gun show tomorrow and toying with the idea of picking up an SKS. Tell me what I need to know. What's a fair price for one in good condition? I'm not looking for something in pristine condition, but I don't want something that looks like it was used to dig a fox hole either. What about ammo? Is it readily available? What should I expect to pay for it? Anything to watch out for?

[mousegunner]

There are many models from many countries. Most common today is the Yugoslavian version, which is considered to be finely made. You can buy one in "like new" condition for less than $250. True Russians are considered most desirable, and may cost from three to four hundred dollars. Albanians are rare. Chinese models are collectable, and may be found in all sorts of conditions from really beat up to very nice. If you find a Chinese SKS that accepts ordinary AK magazines, well, those are rare. I saw one on gunbroker.com for $1000. There are a lot of "bubba'ed" SKS rifles out there, too. The best magazine is the original built in mag that holds 10 rounds. Tapco 20 rounders are said to be reliable. All other mags are doubtful. Ammo is the same as for the AK: 7.62x39, and sells for under $200 per 1000 rounds. I suggest you go to www.gunbroker.com and do a search for SKS rifles, and you will get a good idea of prices. The SKS is a fine rifle, and everyone should have one. If you buy an SKS, be sure to read up on the "sticking firing pin problem" before you fire the rifle.

Edited June 20, 2008 by mousegunner
added info

[Guest Fuel]

Thanks!

[mrming]

mouse has covered most of it.

Be aware that most are delivered soaked in cosmoline grease. You'll need to clear it form the barrel, action, and gas tube before first use or you'll have a bad afternoon. The guns are typically very robust. Only common flaw will be a rusted or damaged gas tube. If yours fails to cycle correctly, tape the ends of the gas tube aound the sight block and receiver so as to seal it. See if the tape gets blown off quickly... if so, tube doesnt fit correctly.

Its a defect I had with two I've put my hands on. Cheap and easy to resolve though.