I trained with an M-14, shot Expert Rifleman with it, engaging targets out to 600 meters. Not happening today of course with these aged eyes. lol
I have a Norinco SKS, which I like very much. However, in my opinion, while the SKS has several things going for it, i.e., it was inexpensive when I bought it, ammo, until recently, was cheap and less recoil, it works well even when dirty, etc., it is not in the same ballpark re: quality as an M14.
Cheap stampings, pinned barrel, open V sights, limited range, 10 round fixed mag, etc. all are reasons I would take an M-14, or its clone, over any SKS as a battle weapon.