A better indicator is the slot ,illed into the bolt carrier, under the charging handle. Probably has the better trigger group, the easiest indicator for that is the presence of serations, checkering, or whatever you would call it, on the front surface of the safety lever, as later models were smooth. I consider all Chinese SKS's to be of high quality, since I have owned and used at least a dozen of all the models, over the years. I currently have two Sporter models, the kind that accept AK magazines, and they function well and are rasonably accurate, Like the rest of the late model SKS's, they have cast bolt carriers and the press in barrels.I also have two older SKS's with the screw in barrels. ONe has a new apearing barrel and is exceptionally accurate for an SKS. The other was a surplus rifle I bought some 20 years ago for $100. So, for the most part, Chinese SKS's are generally reliable and generally accurate as far as SKS's go, and the cheaper press in barrels, have little or no adverse effect on the operation of the rifle.