~ Korean War Era Chinese Made SKS Semi-Automatic Rifle & Bayonet ~
The SKS is a semi-automatic carbine chambered for the 7.62×39mm round, designed in 1943 by Sergei Gavrilovich Simonov. A reliable, simply designed, and relatively inexpensive weapon, the SKS was first produced in the Soviet Union but later widely exported and manufactured by various nations.
The Chinese continually revised the SKS manufacturing process, variation can be seen between two examples from the same factory. All Type 56 carbine rifles have been removed from military service, except a few being used for ceremonial purposes and by local Chinese Militias. Type 56 carbines with serial numbers below 9,000,000 have the Russian-style blade-type folding bayonet, while those 9,000,000 and higher have a “spike” type folding bayonet. Some early examples are known as “Sino-Soviet”, meaning they were produced by China, but with cooperation from Russian “advisers” who helped regulate the factories and provided the design specifications and perhaps even Soviet-manufactured parts.
An excellent example of the SKS rifle, serial numbered 12174985 on the barrel, 57889 on the receiver cover, 604 on the stock, and 74985 on the bolt, magazine, and trigger guard.
On the left side of the barrel are deactivation marks, proof marks, and Chinese factory marks.
The bayonet is unmarked.
The cleaning rod is secured.
~ Condition ~
The bolt and trigger can be moved but not engaged, the magazine flap and safety functions normally, the ladder sight moves with ease, and the bayonet folds and unfolds.
There are minimal amounts of pitting and rust, the wood is marked up but free from decay. The tip of the bayonet is slightly rusted. Overall, a lovely example of the SKS rifle.