Here's a summary of how the various laws affect the SKS and what the ATF says about it:
Quote:
Therefore, since an SKS exibits some of these characteristics, it is banned from importation under section 925(d)(3). However, subsection (e)(1) of the same section allows for its importation because of its current designation as a Curio and Relic (the 20th item down on this list:
http://www.atf.treas.gov/firearms/cu...0505update.htm).
This section, by itself, only applies to importation, once it is in the country, Section 925 no longer applies.
HOWEVER, this section is referred to in Section 922(r) which states:
Quote:
"It shall be unlawful for any person to assemble from imported parts any semi-automatic rifle or shotgun which is identical to any rifle or shotgun prohibited from importation under section 925(d)(3) of this chapter as not being particularly suitable or readily adaptable to sporting purposes except that this subsection shall not apply to... "
Current ATF rulings hold that any modification of a military surplus C&R firearm from its "original military configuration" voids its status as a C&R firearm. Current ATF rulings also indicate that virtually ANY modification to a firearm can be construed as "assembly" of a new firearm.
(
http://sailorcurt.blogspot.com/2007/...al-issues.html)
As Nuglium posted, you should read this:
http://www.sksboards.com/smf/index.php?topic=27678.0 so that you know what the ATF has to say about it.
Even the most cursory reading shows that they CAN and DO consider a modified SKS to be subject to the parts count provision of 922(r).