Hello from Maryland

[montigre]

First, I'd like to say, thank you very much for the add.  After reading the posts for a few days now, I am very impressed with the knowledge proliferated on these forum pages and the adult manner in which it is shared and debated.

I originally did not plan on collecting a small horde of SKSs when I started my search for a fun rifle I could take to the range, but have ended up with 3 of them now.  The first was an unissued Yugo 59/66 that was born in 1971 and decommissioned in June 2002 for import to the USA (according to the log that came with it).  I found that I developed some strange feelings of guilt about using it for a range beater, so set my sights on procuring another.

The second was a 1972 Chinese /416\ imported by Keng sometime in the late '80s.  I though for sure this would provide some fun range time, but upon further digging into this type, I discovered the 2 funny characters on the right side of the receiver meant it was one of those fairly uncommon Public Special Police pieces....  This carbine can be considered excellent in overall condition, all numbers match, does not appear to have been arsenal refurbished or shot very much and may even be an "as issued" example of this type of SKS.  Need to do more research.  Sigh, so my search for the nice ComBlock range rifle continued....

The third, which I just purchased via a long-distance private party, is a 1954 Russian out of the Tula arsenal.  Since I do not yet have it in hand, I do not know much about it other than it had been rearsenaled, does still have matching numbers (except for the force stamped stock), and is in at least very good condition.  I decided to pick up a Russian because in a former life, I was a Russian linguist for Uncle Sam and thought it would be a nice personal commemoration of my Cold War experience.  So, I guess I have now unwittingly become a newb collector of military items that go "bang".....  Hopefully, this Russian carbine will end up being my general range shooter; otherwise, my search may have to continue....  

[Phosphorus32]

Welcome from Washington state.  It sounds like you have a really nice collection already  I'm sure the trio will grow 

Your Russian language skills could be a great addition to the SKS Files! Glad to have you 

[running-man]

Welcome to the boards Monti!  We are very happy to have new members with a passion for collecting join.  It certainly appears that you've been bitten by the bug, SKSs do tend to multiply if left unchecked.  I think you have put into words the dilemma that many new collectors find themselves in when they go out to specifically buy a range beater.  People find a nice deal, get it home, maybe clean it up if it was still in the grease.  Then they start to discover what it is that they've really got!  Of all the different types out there, they happened to luck out into a <insert uncommon or exceptional SKS here>.  The Chinese Public Security is a good example.  They have interesting markings and typically are in excellent condition.  I think you'll find your Russian when it comes in will probably really grow on you as well despite it being a refurb. 

If there's anything you need, please don't hesitate to ask.  There are a great group of guys here that are knowledgable in all variety of subjects.  Welcome aboard. 

[Dannyboy53]

Welcome from Florida, glad to have you here. As Phosphorus32 said, someone may call on you for assistance in research of Russian arms etc. You are a valuable & welcome asset!

[montigre]

Thank you, everyone, for the very warm reception. 

I've always been a bit of a history buff and learning of the histories behind the various SKS models has sparked a greater interest in me to preserve and protect the histories these guns have to share for future enthusiasts.  There is something about the smell and feel of cold steel and wood that can impart stories that simply cannot be found in books....

Anyway, I would be very happy to assist with research in any way I am able.   

[Phosphorus32]

There is something about the smell and feel of cold steel and wood that can impart stories that simply cannot be found in books....

well stated   

[Loose}{Cannon]

Welcome to the files monti!   

Sounds like your well on your way to being a full blown sks addict.     

[Blicero]

Great intro, welcome aboard! You say you're a newb collector but your SKS collection is already far advanced past mine. I'm only an admin here because I'm blackmailing LooseCannon with incriminating photographs.

All the guys here really know their stuff when it comes to the SKS, they've forgotten more about the SKS than I'll ever know, so feel free to ask questions any time you're stumped.

There is something about the smell and feel of cold steel and wood that can impart stories that simply cannot be found in books....

well stated   

My old lady thinks I'm crazy because I always sniff whatever pistol/rifle I'm handling. I put on my best cocky & reverential Robert Duvall voice and mention how milsurps smell like...victory.

[Loose}{Cannon]

I'm only an admin here because I'm blackmailing LooseCannon with incriminating photographs.

This is a direct violation of the confidentiality agreement you signed.    Your ass is mine now.....   

[rwhite135]

If you're in the Cumberland area, J&S Pawn, over in Ridgeley, has some Chinese models that would make good shooters in the $350-$375 range.  They also have a M listed for $700.  I had them talked down on it but I made the mistake of having the wife with me.