Hey Y'all new mwmber from Virginia (atm)

[Nucflash]

Just wanted to say hello. New to the forum and to the SKS. After much research, between AK, AR and SKS, bought my first SKS last week at an antique gun shop (actually, I traded a M&P 9c for it). Disassembled it, cleaned it, lubed it up and took it to the range. Now I know what all the fuss is about. Great rifle IMHO, very sweet shooter. It's a Chinese type 56, SN K8193...not sure exactly what that means. I'm hoping maybe some of y'all can help me out on it. Thank you in advance for any help and/or advice.

[Phosphorus32]

Welcome aboard to a new SKS fan!

Feel free to post pics of your acquisition! Based just on the serial number and your description, it sounds like you have an  early Chinese SKS circa 1959/60. Should have a blade bayonet among other features. Check out this link in the Chinese Military section for more info:

http://sks-files.com/index.php?topic=360.0

[running-man]

Welcome to the boards!  Sounds like you have the SKS bug.  Unfortunately, there is no known cure!!  Glad to have you here.  Post up anything you want and join in the discussions.  Every example helps us learn something new. 

[Taba]

welcome I just got on here a week ago. I love the SKS out of the 3. I find that the SKS is as tough as a AK, and as accurate as an AR. some may say is not a pretty rifle but again everyone is a critic. the main point is the have fun and enjoy life. now if you like the look/durability of the AK or the accuracy of the AR look at the Czec Vz 58. I will be looking for a good Vz 58 soon. Have a nice day be safe while shooting

[Power Surge]

Welcome aboard!  Sounds like you have a Chinese letter gun, which as Phos stated would be a 59/60.

Lots of good info here, so spend some time and check it out. Definitely get your gun plugged into the Chinese registry too.

[Justin Hell]

Welcome to your new addiction...oh, and the board too!

It sounds as if you are off to a good start. I have a wall full of them, yet still no letter gun....

[Loose}{Cannon]

Welcome...  Good to have you!

[agrace]

Welcome from Missouri, formerly of Boones Mill, Virginia(about 24 years ago )

[SKhiSm 59-66A1]

Welcome to the files from SW Ohio 

[carls sks]

hi neighbor and welcome. good to have you here.  .......  be careful, its hard not to get another.