SKS “collect-ability” vs. a shooter…

[wiski]

I am thinking about buying a Yugo SKS 59/66. I looked over 4 different rifles today, and picked the one that looked the best, but I admit I don’t really know what to look for. It is on hold for 1 day.

Two had different numbers on the bolt and receiver. One had the number on the bolt scribed, not stamped, but they all matched on that rifle. One had the gas tube cover slightly loose. (Forgive my terminology, as I am still learning about these rugged weapons. Have done lots of searching on this site.)

How big a deal is it that the numbers all match anyway for a shooter? I think it means that they were re-arsenaled and had parts replaced that were worn, but were not all 59/66s gone thur for the grenade mod? Also, the rifle that I have on hold has a loose magazine joint when you release the mag catch and let it pivot down. Any concern?

Price is $109. Some wear on the bluing, but not too bad shape overall.

Thanks for the 1000th (or more) post by the new guys on SKS rifles.

 

[ball3006]

On the Yugo SKSs....

bore condition is the most important. The Yugo is plentiful right now and the collectability of a shooter grade is low. So, just go shoot the rifle. They are fun rifles. Once the supply of imported rifles is gone from the dealers, the price may creep up a bit. Ten years ago a Russian SKS was going for 100 bucks or so and now they are close to 300. Romanian and Chinese are around 200 bucks now.....The Yugo rifles do not have a chrome lined barrel so it is important to clean them right after shooting any corrosive ammo.......chris3

 

[albanian]

As far as all matching numbers, it is important for collectors as well as resale. An all matching SKS is worth more than a non-matching one should you decide to sell it. As for a shooter, matching numbers won't matter on a SKS. They will tend to work even with swapped out parts.

The Yugo is probably my favorite SKS because of the quality and design and the fact that you can find them for about $100! That is a great deal for such a well made gun.

My advice on buying a Yugo is, look for all matching if you can get it. Check the bore, these are not chrome lined so the chance of a bad bore does exist even though it is not common. Most of the Yugo, I have seen have fine bores. Check for signs of rust. Even though most of these were stored in cosmo, sometimes they missed a spot and rust will form if it wasn't protected. Check for loose/worn parts. Basically buy the best looking and most solid one they have.

When you get it home, you will probably have to clean it even if they sell them cleaned. Make sure you clean the bolt assm. Make sure the firing pin moves freely. If it gets stuck, you could have a slamfire which may be fun but it could also be dangerous.