You are considering an Original Russian SKS Semi-Automatic Rifle. This rifle was made in the Tula Arsenal in 1951; it has all matching serial numbers and comes with a bayonet and sling.

It is our opinion this is a “non-refurb” (as-issued) rifle; the bolt is in-the-white and there are no visible re-issue markings on the stock — this is typically seen as a square bicented with a diagonal line. The left side of the stock shows three rows of markings: the Tula star with up arrow arsenal stamp, the year with “r”, and the serial number with Cyrillic pre-fix. The all-matching serial number is stamped on all usual places along with it being electro-penciled on the bottom of the gas tube. There are a couple of features inconsistent with an “as-issued” rifle; typically, a non-refurb will show more than one set of stake marks on the bayonet screw, showing that the bayonet was removed and replaced, this rifle shows only one set of stake marks but since they don’t line up with the current bayonet, it could have been replaced, or just loosened and reinstalled by the previous owner — Another inconsistency is the small amount of black paint on the buttplate; typically any rifle with black paint or refinishing will indicate a refurbished rifle — It is unknown if this buttplate was refinished, replaced, or is original.

The stock is a nice rich reddish-brown with dark swirl patterns. This rifle has a lot of markings, please review the photos for more details — the markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle is in Excellent condition. The woodwork is above 80%, showing typical scarring, draglines, and finish wear, and no significant wear or damage. The metalwork is above 95%, showing typical finish wear on the high points. As discussed above, the metal buttplate shows finish wear and patchiness. The bore is bright and shiny with sharp rifling and no visible corrosion. The bayonet is Excellent, it has not been shaped and shows typical minor wear. The sling is original and is Excellent, with no visible defects or obvious wear.

• Manufacturer: Russian Tula Arsenal (Imported by Century Arms International)
• Model: SKS
• Year: 1951
• Caliber: 7.62x39mm 
• Capacity: 10
• Serial Number: Aг843
• Barrel Length: 20.5”  
• OAL: 40.2″
• LOP: 12.2″
• Weight: 9.25lbs
• Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Internal Box Magazine Fed