What's an SKS worth and what's worth trading for it?

[Red Tornado]

I was at a gun shop at lunch today, and they had a Norinco SKS with a cheap 4x30 scope mounted and a cheap nylon sling attached. It had a 30 round detachable magazine, and appeared to be in pretty good shape, but I didn't look down the bore. They were asking $170. That seemed like a good price, but is it worth trading other guns for.

Let me explain...with a baby on the way, I promised my wife that the Ruger 22/45 would be the last new(or used) gun until at least next year some time. However, I don't have anything in 7.62x39 and really like SKS's. (I actually don't have any intermediate rifles, I go from .22LR to 7.62x54R and 30-06) So I think I could justify a trade, but the only things I would part with are a Remington 552, pre-serial number, that's in fairly rough shape and a Mosin Nagent 91/30 with about 220 rounds of ammo left. I don't want to part with either one, but neither one is a sharp shooter and still have a full powered battle rifle in my Garand.

I don't know what they would offer for those two guns, but I think it would be close. If anyone has info one what I might get offered for trade, please let me know that too.

In short (too late), would it be worth it?

All opinions appreciated.
RT

 

[Bill B.]

Here's a link to KY Imports: http://www.kyimports.com/rifle3.htm#Norinco

To best answer your question they have used SKS's for $129.00. If you don't really like the Remington 552 you might be able to get a even swap on the SKS you mention. Just keep in mind it's no bargain. If you really want it and they will not trade even ask them if they wish to keep the scope. Most of those scopes are not very good anyway and it might swing the trade in your favor. By the way the best SKS's I have handled have been the Yugo's and that includes a 1954 unfired Russian one I owned. Good luck!

 

[jefnvk]

Did it take a regular AK mag? If so, then I think its very worth it.

If it were me, I'd probably buy it. Don;t know what those other guns are worth, so can't offer any advice there.

 

[Diggler]

Ask them for the paperwork that proves that the rifle was imported before the 922 regs went into effect. A lot of people ignore that when trying to sell but I'd be careful when buying.

I was in a gunshop that had 3-4 Norinco's with spike bayonets ATTACHED and they couldn't produce any paperwork that said that they were legally imported that way.

 

[Red Tornado]

Bill, I checked that link. That's what I really needed. I knew SKSs were going up, but if they're still available for <$130, I think I'll give this one a pass.

It didn't take an AK mag, just the detachable SKS mag, which may or may not be a good thing. I've heard both opinions, but I really don't know.

I think I'll pass and wait until I'm going to be visiting Kentucky. They have good prices over there.
Thanks for the input,
RT

 

[GigaBuist]

I thought the Norinco stuff was fetching a high price these days? Last time I saw a Norinco AK at a gunshow it was labled as $700. I don't think the guy was a ripoff artist, either, I got my WASR-10 hi-cap from him for $300.

I -thought- the Chinese SKSes were fetching $300 these days, but maybe that's the Russians?

I'm probably wrong, but if I'm right you might be able to pick it up, shoot it for a year, and sell it for more than you paid.

If I'm wrong, well, you still might be able to find an idiot (like me) that THINKS the Chinese is supposed to be worth $300.

 

[Redlg155]

The standard Chinese SKSs, depending on the condition, are worth anywhere from $125 to $200. I'd expect to pay $200 plus for the "paratrooper" model. I believe it is the "D" series that also accepts standard AK mags. I've seen these go for $350.

I paid $150 and $200 for my last two Russians.

I doubt if you will be able to find any suppliers with standard Norincos in any great quanity. However, Yugos are everywhere.

Good Shooting
Red