Do They Still Make SKS Rifles?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The History and Decline of SKS Production
3. Why the SKS Still Matters to Preppers
4. Identifying the Best SKS Variants
5. The Modern SKS Market: What to Look For
6. Maintaining Your SKS for Long-Term Use
7. The SKS vs. The AK-47: Which Is Right for You?
8. Modernizing the "Old Warhorse"
9. Conclusion
10. FAQ

Introduction

In the world of tactical preparedness, few firearms hold a more storied or controversial position than the SKS (Samozaryadny Karabin sistemy Simonova). It is a rifle that bridges the gap between the old-world bolt-action era and the modern era of the select-fire assault rifle. For many veterans and preppers, the SKS was their first introduction to a semi-automatic platform chambered in a serious caliber. We at Crate Club appreciate gear that is rugged, reliable, and functional, and the SKS fits that profile perfectly.

However, as the secondary market prices for these surplus rifles continue to climb, a common question arises among enthusiasts: Do they still make SKS rifles? The answer is nuanced, involving international trade laws, military history, and the evolution of manufacturing. If you’re building your first serious kit, see what's inside the Lieutenant tier. In this article, we will break down the current state of SKS production, why this rifle remains a staple in many survival kits, and what you need to look for if you are adding one to your inventory today. While original military production has long since wound down, its legacy as a formidable tool for the serious tactician remains unshakable.

Quick Answer: No major military or commercial manufacturer is currently producing "new" SKS rifles for the global market in the way they did during the mid-20th century. Most SKS rifles available today are surplus stock from former Soviet-bloc countries or China, though millions remain in circulation worldwide.

The History and Decline of SKS Production

To understand why the SKS is no longer in mass production, you have to look at why it was built in the first place. Sergei Simonov designed the SKS (a 7.62x39mm semi-automatic carbine) in 1943. It was intended to be the standard-issue infantry rifle for the Soviet Union, utilizing the new 7.62x39mm intermediate cartridge. This round offered a balance of power and manageable recoil, allowing a soldier to carry more ammunition than the older 7.62x54R bolt-action rifles allowed.

Production began in earnest at the Tula Arsenal in 1949. However, its time as the premier Soviet rifle was short-lived. The AK-47, with its select-fire capability and 30-round detachable magazine, was already proving to be the superior choice for modern mechanized warfare. By the mid-1950s, the Soviet Union had largely ceased SKS production in favor of the AK platform. For a broader look at the era that preceded it, read our Bolt Action Rifles: Pros & Cons.

The Rise of the Chinese Type 56

While the Soviets moved on quickly, the Chinese embraced the SKS design. Known as the Type 56 Carbine, China produced millions of these rifles at Factory 26 and various other state-run arsenals. For decades, the Type 56 was the backbone of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and was exported to dozens of nations and insurgent groups across the globe.

Chinese production continued well into the late 1970s and early 1980s for military use, and even longer for the commercial export market. However, as China modernized its military to the Type 81 and later the QBZ series, the SKS was relegated to militia use and ceremonial roles.

The Yugoslavian M59/66

Another major producer was Yugoslavia. The Zastava M59/66 is a common variant found in the US today. These are easily identified by their permanent grenade launcher attachments and folding ladder sights. Production in Yugoslavia lasted until the late 1980s. Like other nations, Yugoslavia eventually phased out the SKS in favor of their own AK variants, specifically the M70.

Field Note: If you encounter a Yugoslavian M59/66, inspect the gas valve. Because the Yugo lacks a chrome-lined bore, the corrosive primers used in older surplus ammunition can cause the gas valve to pit and leak, leading to cycling issues that can turn your semi-auto into a single-shot.

Why the SKS Still Matters to Preppers

Even though you can’t walk into a factory and watch a new SKS roll off the assembly line, the rifle remains a high-value asset for those focused on survival and tactical readiness. At Crate Club, we often discuss the importance of reliability under stress, and the SKS is a masterclass in "it just works." That same reliability-first mindset is why many readers also check out our Tactical Loadouts guide.

Reliability and Simplicity

The SKS utilizes a short-stroke gas piston system. When a round is fired, the gas travels up through a port in the barrel, hitting a piston that moves a short distance to push the bolt carrier back. This is a very clean system compared to the direct impingement found on many AR-15s. It keeps the bolt carrier group (BCG)—the heart of the rifle's action—relatively cool and free of carbon buildup.

The rifle is also "overbuilt." The receiver is milled from a solid block of steel, unlike the stamped receivers found on many AKs. This adds weight, but it also adds a level of durability that is hard to match in modern polymer-heavy rifles.

Caliber Commonality: 7.62x39mm

The SKS fires the 7.62x39mm round, one of the most prolific cartridges on the planet. Whether you are hunting medium game like deer or engaging in a defensive scenario, this round provides excellent "thump" within 200 to 300 yards. In a true SHTF (Sexting Hits The Fan) scenario—a term preppers use for a total societal collapse—finding 7.62x39mm ammunition is often easier than finding specialized hunting rounds or even certain match-grade NATO calibers. If you want a deeper look at ammo choices, our steel-cased ammo guide is a useful companion read.

Compliance and "Non-Threatening" Aesthetics

In many restrictive jurisdictions in the US, the SKS is a rare example of a "featureless" semi-auto rifle that provides serious firepower. Because it typically has a fixed 10-round magazine and a traditional wooden stock, it often bypasses the legal definitions of an "assault weapon" that plague AR and AK owners. For a civilian prepper who wants to stay within the bounds of the law while still maintaining a capable defensive tool, the SKS is a top-tier choice. If you’re rounding out the rest of your kit, browse the Gear Shop.

Identifying the Best SKS Variants

Since you are buying surplus rather than new production, knowing which country produced the rifle is critical for evaluating its value and reliability.

Soviet SKS (Tula and Izhevsk)

These are the "holy grail" for collectors and shooters alike. They are known for having the best fit and finish. Most Soviet rifles have chrome-lined bores, which protect the barrel from the corrosive salts found in surplus ammunition. Look for the star (Tula) or the triangle with an arrow (Izhevsk) on the receiver cover.

Chinese Type 56

Chinese SKS rifles are the most common in the US. The quality varies depending on whether it was a military-contract rifle or a later commercial export (often marked "Norinco"). The military versions are generally superior, featuring threaded barrels and milled components, whereas later commercial versions might have pinned barrels and stamped parts to save on manufacturing costs.

Romanian and Albanian

These are less common but highly regarded. The Albanian SKS is unique for its longer handguard that covers the gas tube almost entirely and its distinct "hook" shaped charging handle. Only about 18,000 were ever made, making them a collector's item more than a primary "user" rifle.

Comparison Table: SKS Variants at a Glance

Key Takeaway: The Soviet SKS is the gold standard for quality, but the Chinese Type 56 is the most practical choice for a "working" rifle due to parts availability and its chrome-lined barrel.

The Modern SKS Market: What to Look For

Since no new rifles are being made, the market is driven by what remains in warehouses and private collections. If you are shopping for an SKS to include in your bug-out gear or home defense kit, follow these steps to ensure you aren't buying a paperweight.

Step 1: Check the Bore

Corrosive ammunition was the standard for decades in the Eastern Bloc. If a previous owner fired surplus ammo and didn't clean the rifle immediately with water or a specific ammonia-based cleaner, the salts would eat away at the rifling. Use a bore light or a small flashlight to check for "pitting" (small holes or dark spots) in the barrel. A smooth, shiny bore is what you want for accuracy. If you're also trying to protect the rest of the rifle, our firearm rust prevention guide is worth a look.

Step 2: Inspect the Gas System

Take the gas tube off and look at the piston. It should move freely. If the piston is rusted to the tube, you’re going to have major reliability issues. On Yugoslavian models, pay special attention to the gas shut-off valve near the front sight; if this is loose or corroded, the rifle will fail to cycle.

Step 3: Numbers Matching

While not strictly necessary for a "shooter" rifle, having matching serial numbers on the bolt, receiver, magazine, and stock generally indicates the rifle hasn't been "cannibalized" from multiple broken units. It’s a good sign that the rifle has been well-maintained and that the headspace—the distance between the bolt face and the chamber—is correct.

Step 4: Beware of "Bubba" Modifications

In the 90s and early 2000s, it was common to "tacticalize" an SKS with cheap plastic stocks and detachable 30-round magazines. Often, these modifications were poorly done. The SKS was designed for a fixed magazine fed by stripper clips (metal strips that hold 10 rounds for quick loading). Aftermarket detachable mags are notorious for causing jams. We recommend keeping the original 10-round fixed magazine for maximum reliability.

Bottom line: When buying an SKS today, prioritize the condition of the bore and the gas system over cosmetic appearance or aftermarket "upgrades."

Maintaining Your SKS for Long-Term Use

If you treat an SKS right, it will outlast you. Because we focus on gear that can withstand the rigors of the field at Crate Club, maintenance is a topic we take seriously.

Cleaning after Surplus Ammo: If you fire surplus 7.62x39mm, assume it is corrosive. You must neutralize the salts.

1. Run hot, soapy water through the barrel and over the bolt face.
2. Follow up with a standard solvent and oil.
3. Don't forget the gas piston; it’s the first thing the corrosive gases hit.

The "Slam Fire" Risk: The SKS has a "free-floating" firing pin, meaning there is no spring holding it back. If the firing pin channel gets clogged with old grease or cosmoline (a thick, brown rust preventative used for long-term storage), the pin can get stuck in the forward position. When you chamber a round, the pin hits the primer, and the rifle fires—potentially emptying the entire magazine in an uncontrolled "slam fire." Always ensure your firing pin rattles freely when you shake the bolt.

Zeroing Your SKS: Most SKS rifles use a "battle zero." Setting the rear sight to the "D" or "П" setting (depending on the country of origin) will allow you to hit a torso-sized target from 0 to 300 meters. For precise work, you will need an SKS front sight tool to adjust elevation and windage by moving the front post. For a deeper look at performance, see our SKS accuracy guide.

The SKS vs. The AK-47: Which Is Right for You?

Many people ask if they should buy an SKS or save up for an AK-47. Both use the same ammo and are incredibly reliable, but they serve different roles.

• Accuracy: Generally, the SKS is more accurate than a standard stamped AK-47. The longer barrel (20 inches vs 16 inches) and the milled receiver provide a more stable platform.
• Capacity: The AK wins here with its 30-round magazines. However, a skilled operator can load an SKS with a 10-round stripper clip almost as fast as a magazine change.
• Ergonomics: The SKS feels more like a traditional hunting rifle. It is easier to shoot from a prone position because it doesn't have a long magazine sticking out of the bottom.
• Cost: While SKS prices have risen, they are often still more affordable than a high-quality, American-made or imported AK-47.

For someone just starting their journey into tactical preparedness, the SKS is an excellent "Tier 1" rifle. It’s the kind of gear you might find in our Captain tier, straightforward, high-value, and effective. As you advance to the Major or General tiers, you might look toward more modern platforms with optics and modularity, but the SKS will always have a place in the rack as a reliable backup.

Field Note: Don't underestimate the SKS's integrated bayonet. While modern combat rarely involves bayonets, in a survival scenario, it's a fixed-blade tool that is always attached to your rifle. Whether for prodding suspicious objects or keeping a threat at a distance, it’s a versatile addition.

Modernizing the "Old Warhorse"

While we generally advocate for keeping the SKS in its original configuration for reliability, there are some modern upgrades that actually make sense for the 21st-century operator.

1. Optic Mounts

The biggest weakness of the SKS is its iron sights, which can be hard to see in low-light conditions. Avoid mounts that replace the receiver cover; they rarely hold a zero because the cover moves during firing. Instead, look for a "scout mount" that replaces the rear sight leaf. This allows you to mount a red dot or a long-eye-relief scope while keeping the rifle's action clear for stripper clip loading. If you need to browse parts and accessories, check the Gear Shop.

2. Aftermarket Stocks

If the original wood stock is rotted or too short for your "length of pull" (the distance from the trigger to the buttstock), a modern polymer stock from a reputable brand can improve the rifle's handling. Some stocks offer adjustable lengths and sling attachment points that are much more user-friendly than the original metal loops.

3. Firing Pin Springs

To eliminate the slam fire risk mentioned earlier, some companies offer a firing pin with a return spring. This is a smart safety upgrade for any SKS that will see regular use.

Bottom line: Upgrade for utility, not for looks. If an "upgrade" makes the rifle less reliable, it's not an upgrade—it's a liability.

Conclusion

So, do they still make SKS rifles? No, the era of mass SKS production has passed. We have entered the era of the modern sporting rifle and the modular carbine. However, the SKS is far from obsolete. Its presence on battlefields and in survival caches around the world today is a testament to Simonov’s enduring design.

For the tactical enthusiast, the SKS offers a unique blend of historical significance and practical utility. It is a rugged, 7.62x39mm carbine that is easy to maintain, legal in most areas, and capable of putting rounds on target with Boring reliability. Whether you are a veteran looking for a familiar feel or a prepper building your first serious kit, the SKS remains one of the best values in the firearms world.

At Crate Club, our mission is to ensure you have the gear and the knowledge to handle any situation. While we don't ship rifles in our crates, we provide the high-level EDC gear, medical kits, and survival tools that complement a primary platform like the SKS. Building a complete loadout takes time and vetting. Choose your Crate Club tier.

If you’re thinking beyond the rifle itself and want to round out the rest of your everyday preparedness, urban survival gear guide is a strong next stop.

Key Takeaway: The SKS is no longer being manufactured, but with millions in circulation, it remains one of the most reliable and accessible semi-auto rifles for the modern prepper.

FAQ

Is the SKS legal in California and New York?

Generally, yes, the SKS is legal in these states because it has a fixed 10-round magazine and lacks most "assault weapon" features like a pistol grip or detachable magazine. However, specific models (like those modified to take AK mags) or certain muzzle devices may change its status, so always check your local and state laws before purchasing.

Can I hunt with an SKS?

Absolutely. The 7.62x39mm round is often compared to the .30-30 Winchester, making it an excellent choice for hunting deer, feral hogs, and other medium-sized game at distances up to 150-200 yards. Ensure you use expanding "soft point" or "hollow point" ammunition rather than full metal jacket (FMJ) for ethical hunting.

Why is the SKS more expensive now than it was 10 years ago?

Prices have risen due to a combination of factors: the 1994 ban on Chinese firearm imports, the drying up of Soviet and Eastern European surplus caches, and increased demand from preppers and collectors. What used to be a $75 rifle is now frequently seen for $500 to $900 depending on the variant and condition.

How can I tell if my SKS is military surplus or a commercial export?

Look at the markings on the receiver. Military rifles usually have a factory code (like a triangle with "26" for the Jianshe arsenal) and Chinese characters. Commercial export models, often imported by Norinco or Polytech in the 80s and 90s, might have English markings, "Made in China" stamps, and may lack the bayonet or have a pinned barrel rather than a threaded one.

What should I do next if I’m building a broader preparedness plan?

Explore our natural-disaster checklist to round out your overall preparedness plan.