Cold War Era Albanian SKS 7.62×39 20.25” Semi-Automatic Rifle, C&R 1968

SOLD FOR: $1,090.00

LSB#: LSB251202KM046

Make: Albania

Model:  SKS 

Serial Number: 01266-68

Year of Manufacture: 1968 / C&R

Caliber: 7.62×39

Action Type: Semi-Automatic

Markings:  The left side of the receiver is marked “01266-68”.  The top of the bolt is marked “01266”.  The bottom of the magazine is marked “01266”. The rear of the receiver is marked “03139”. The bottom of the trigger guard The rear sight is marked “1-10” and “D” for the battle position.  The bottom of the barrel is marked “SKS GRAMSH ALBANIA 7.62X39 TG KNOX, TN”.  

Barrel Length:  20.25”. 

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is an adjustable hooded post and the rear sight is a “U” notched sliding sight escalator marked from “1 – 10” and “D” for the battle position.  

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The stock is an Albanian profile wood stock with correct upper handguard, finger grooves, buttplate with two trap doors for cleaning kit and oiler (not included), sling ring on the left side of the buttstock, and another ring on the left side of the gas block.  The gas piston tube has its correct 3 vent holes on each side along with the handguard having its 3 vent ports in its elongated and enlarged profile.  The bottom of the forend has a correct cutout for its spring spike bayonet. All parts of this rifle are correct and matching in serial number. The charging handle is similar to an AK and not the typical knurled knob of every other SKS variant. There are scratches, compression marks, scuffs, and furniture finish loss throughout. There is a large chip in the magazine well cut out. The LOP measures 12.75” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Fair – Good overall condition.   

Type of Finish:  Blued

Finish Originality: Original 

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is no erosion in the bore. There are scratches down the length of the barrel. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7 out of 10.  

Overall Condition:  This rifle retains about 75% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows some thinning on the receiver but most of the finish overall is intact. The screw heads are sharp and any pins are serviceable. The markings are clear. There are scratches and thinning throughout. There is oxidization on the bolt carrier. There is thinning on the dust cover and magazine well.

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.  

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None. 

Our Assessment: This Albanian SKS, manufactured in 1968 at the Gramsh arsenal, represents one of the most distinctive and least common variants of the SKS family produced during the Cold War. Albania’s SKS rifles are immediately recognizable for their unique national features, including the elongated and vented handguard and gas tube, the AK-style charging handle, and stock architecture that differs noticeably from Soviet, Chinese, and Yugoslav patterns. Produced in relatively small numbers and for a short period, Albanian SKS rifles are widely regarded as the final evolutionary branch of the SKS design, making them especially desirable among advanced military surplus collectors.

This example presents with correct Albanian components throughout and matching serial numbers across the major parts, reinforcing its authenticity and originality. The metal finish shows honest thinning and wear consistent with service use, while the bore remains bright with defined rifling and no erosion noted. The stock exhibits significant handling wear and a notable chip at the magazine well cutout, reflecting the rifle’s long and likely austere service life, but it remains structurally intact. Overall, this rifle stands as a scarce and historically significant Cold War SKS variant that clearly illustrates Albania’s isolated and independent approach to small arms production. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! -N.P