Russian SKS 7.62×39 Semi-Auto Rifle Tula Arsenal Marks, Folding Bayonet
SOLD FOR: $715
WOA#: WY230109RB005
Our Assessment: The SKS rifle is a semi-automatic carbine that was developed in the Soviet Union during the late 1940s. It was designed by Sergei Simonov, who had previously developed the AVS-36 and PTRS-41 rifles during World War II. The SKS was initially produced at the Tula Arsenal from 1945 to 1956, and later at the Izhevsk Arsenal from 1953 to 1969.
The SKS was designed as a replacement for the Mosin-Nagant bolt-action rifle, which had been the standard infantry rifle for the Soviet Union since the early 20th century. The SKS was intended to provide Soviet troops with a semi-automatic rifle that was more effective in close-quarters combat than the Mosin-Nagant, which was better suited for long-range engagements.
The SKS was chambered in the 7.62x39mm cartridge, which was also developed by the Soviets in the late 1940s. This cartridge became the standard ammunition for the AK-47 assault rifle, which was developed a few years later.
The SKS was first introduced into Soviet service in 1949, and it quickly gained popularity among troops. It was also exported to other communist countries, such as China, North Korea, and Vietnam, as well as to some non-communist countries.
The SKS was replaced by the AK-47 in Soviet service in the mid-1950s, but it continued to be used by other countries for several decades. It was also popular among civilian shooters in many countries, including the United States, where it was imported in large numbers during the 1980s and 1990s.
Today, the SKS remains a popular rifle among collectors and enthusiasts, and it is still used by some military and police forces in various parts of the world.
This original Russian SKS comes to us from Tula Arsenal, manufactured in 1952, and still bolstering its iconic folding bayonet. The all the numbers on this rifle are matching. The original numbers on the stock are crossed out and matched when it was Arsenal refurbished. Of the many SKS rifles on the market, few come as clean and matching as this. Please see our photos, specs below, and good luck!
Make: Tula Arsenal (Russian)
Model: SKS
Serial Number: Bn3895
Year of Manufacture: 1952
Caliber: 7.62 x 39
Action Type: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Left side of the receiver marked “Bn3895” with a Tula Star with several proofs. Left side of the wooden buttstock is stamped “Bn3895”. There are several proof marks around the chamber near the Trunnion. The top of the Bolt, trigger guard, rear of the receiver, and attached magazine are marked, “Bn3895”. Rear sights marked with numbers “1-10”. The right side of the barrel is marked, “C.A.I. ST ALB VT SKS 7.62X39 RUSSIA.
Barrel Length: 20.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable, hooded post. The rear sight is a “U” tangent notch marked from “1 – 10” and “n”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The arctic birch stocks are in Very Good condition, and are factory refurbished. Old SN XXXed out and new numbers to match receiver parts stamped below it. There are some scattered light scratches and nicks. There are a couple minor impression marks scattered on the stock. The LOP measures 12.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate and buttstock house a storage compartment for a cleaning kit. There is no cleaning kit in the buttstock. This SKS features a folding bayonet and cleaning rod located below the barrel.
Type of Finish: Parkerized, Blued, Anodized
Finish Originality: Original, Factory/Arsenal Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is little to no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its finish. The balance of the finish shows very little wear except for on the barrel and gas cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are mostly clear with some illegible proofs on the refurbed stock. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine refurbished condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.