Ammo Question

[Mossberg88]

Hey All,

I never realized, but the rifle that has been collecting dust (in a case of course) at my parent's house is a Chinese SKS that my dad brought back from Vietnam as a "trophy of war". After a thorough cleaning I plan to take it to the range, however don't know what type of rounds it takes. All I can tell you is that it is Chinese made, and has a bayonet attatched *I haven't seen it since I was little and had no interest in firearms at that point*.

Any info you could give me would be great!
Thanks,


-Alex

 

[sharkhunter2018]

7.62x39

 

[Wolfgang2000]

If you can get and secure his "bring back" papers. If you have those it (the SKS) will triple in value.

 

[rangerruck]

I was about to say, you have something of some real value there, I would do everything I could do validate it, keep it in tip top shape, lube it clean it, keep it in a humidor, etc., etc. I would still shoot the hell out of it though...
it takes 762.39 ammo. don't use american made, too expensive and innacurate. get some wolf, silver bear, brown bear, monarch, barnaul, tiger, etc., all foreign made, and made for the dimensions of that bore, unlike the american made.

 

[Mossberg88]

Thanks,

On the stock of the gun theres a certificate taped to it with his name, date, registration, etc.

 

[AirForceShooter]

I don't know anybody with "bring back papers" from VN.
Not saying they don't exist, just don't know who has them.

AFS

 

[Mossberg88]

Like I said, I haven't seen it since I was little, so I couldn't tell you.

 

[benEzra]

As others have said, 7.62x39mm.

More information on SKS rifles here:

http://www.surplusrifle.com/sks/index.asp

As others have mentioned, Vietnam bringbacks are quite rare and valuable. If you do shoot it, TAKE CARE OF IT. Don't bang it around, set the butt down on concrete, etc.

Also, if it has been stored a long time, it might be adviseable to clean and lubricate it. Pay special attention to cleaning the firing pin and channel, since a stuck firing pin can cause the rifle to slamfire (e.g., fire when the bolt closes). And load it with only 2 rounds the first time, just in case.

Also, stay away from American-made 7.62x39mm ammo (IMO), as some American manufacturers use primers that are too soft for optimum safety.

Cleaning instructions here:

http://www.surplusrifle.com/sks/cleaning/hs.asp

 

[marktx]

......you have something of some real value there.....keep it in a humidor........

Bad idea.... Your gun will rust and your cigars will taste funny.