What sort of SKS would you rather purchase?

[PublicEnemy]

I am pulling the trigger on a trade with cash for an SKS. There is a guy who has the following:

1. Chinese SKS - with spike bayonet - non numbers matching

2. Norinco Model M Paratrooper SKS - No bayonet - This is the SKS that can hold detachable AK-47 mags

3. Russian SKS - Full blade bayonet - Refurb - Numbers matching

Let me know which option you guys would go with or is the best deal. Thanks.

[Evild]

Norinco Paratrooper.

[PublicEnemy]

Whats the reasoning? Best deal for the paratrooper, rarity, or just the allure of having an SKS that can accept AK mags?

[Evild]

I just like the Paratrooper.

[peterwny]

My vote for Paratropper also. I like the shorter barrel. In my opinion, the bayo is overrated.

[vantrepes]

I'd get the Russian. No reason other than I like the one I have.
Then again, mines all origonal, with matching numbers, so.... Take it for what it's worth.

[plater1]

i have had several, and the two best i can think of are the yugo M59 (not the 59/66, nobody needs a grenade launcher, unless they have the grenades) and the russian models.

[MJS051]

i have had several, and the two best i can think of are the yugo M59

Yugo M59 doesn't have a chrome lined barrel.

[plater1]

why does one need a chrome lined barrel?

[MJS051]

why does one need a chrome lined barrel?

Better longevity.

[plater1]

Better longevity.

that's a good point.

[hexidismal]

Better longevity.

Quite possibly less accuracy however. On the other hand this is an SKS we're talking about here so I'm not sure a quarter MOA difference means much. And SKS rifles do tend to get shot.. a lot.

Anyway, in regards to which rifle to buy.. I'd say that all depends on what you want to do with it, and of course the individual condition of those rifles comes largely in to play as well. Assuming all are in excellent condition, If it's accuracy at the range and just all around fun popping off rounds you're looking for, then I'd say go with the basic chinese norinco variant. If for whatever reason you prefer the high capacity of preban AK mags at the sacrifice of long range accuracy (and perhaps reliability, but that's up for debate) then the SKS-M might be best. If you'd rather have the best all around build quality and the gun you'd probably most prefer to have in your safe in the long run, but don't intend to accessorize, then the Russian.

[XIDshooter]

I'd go with the russian first,paratrooper second.
The russian because they're supposed to be the best made,the Paratrooper for being different.

[Sprout47]

I would go with the Chinese with the spike bayonet and then the Russian rebuild - I don't fancy the shorter barrel SKS because they are not an actual military design rather it was something done for the US market which seems to like a 16" barrel carbine over standard length rifle.

Chinese SKS's can be crap though so it pays to know what you're looking at/for - especially whether the barrel is pinned or screwed in.

[PublicEnemy]

Im still torn on this. I dont see many Model M paratroopers around and I like the fact I can use the AK mags I have for my WASR with her as well. Anyone aware of how rare the Model M Paratroopers are? I am well aware the quality of the Russian Tula SKS. What do you think would be the more reliable weapon and hold the most value in the future? Feedback is appreciated as I have to make a decision on friday. Thanks.

[EnfieldGuy]

I would say search for some better prices.... There are deals out there and you can do better then the prices stated.

[Temporaryscars]

I'd say the Russian, but $500? You can get Russians all day long for a lot less than that including FFL fees over at the high road.

[NorincoKid]

Better longevity.

If the bore is good It doesnt really matter. Unless you put hundreds of rounds through it every day the barrel will still last you a lifetime.

And id go Norinco all day long...I love my SKS-M