I've been looking into buying an SKS for a while now and have yet to come up with a reason to buy a Russian model except to have a pretty wall hanger. I know it would be a great shooter, but I couldn't bring myself fire a round through it.
So, I've done a lot of research and have found that the Type 56 seems to be up there in quality and popularity (even with some of you guys here on THR); 2nd in the running under the Russian. I understand the Type 56 is Chinese and that Norinco is also Chinese. I haven't been able to find any clear information that the Type 56 and Norinco are the same thing or a different build altogether. I'm aware that Norinco stands for "The China North Industries Corporation"... so did Norc manufacture the Type 56 or are these two separate variants? If they are separate variants, which should I seek for purchase and in what price range would be acceptable for a solid shooter in VG (used) -NIB (non-issued) condition?
So, I've done a lot of research and have found that the Type 56 seems to be up there in quality and popularity (even with some of you guys here on THR); 2nd in the running under the Russian. I understand the Type 56 is Chinese and that Norinco is also Chinese. I haven't been able to find any clear information that the Type 56 and Norinco are the same thing or a different build altogether. I'm aware that Norinco stands for "The China North Industries Corporation"... so did Norc manufacture the Type 56 or are these two separate variants? If they are separate variants, which should I seek for purchase and in what price range would be acceptable for a solid shooter in VG (used) -NIB (non-issued) condition?