Yugo Zastava SKS M59 7.62×39 20.5” Semi-Automatic Rifle & Bayonet C&R 1964
SOLD FOR: $1,140.00
LSB#: LSB260522JN004
Make: Yugo Zastava
Model: SKS 59
Serial Number: B-15403
Year of Manufacture: 1964 / C&R
Caliber: 7.62x39mm
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Fed by Hinged Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “B-15403”. The bolt and bolt carrier are marked “15403”. The left side of the buttstock is marked “15403”. The left side of the forend is marked “COMPO AAA”. The trigger guard is marked “15403”. There are factory proofs throughout. The stock has trench art throughout.
Barrel Length: 20.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded adjustable post banded around the barrel. The rear sight is a “U” notched sliding sight escalator marked from “1 – 10” and “I” for the battle position.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood stock with straight comb, metal buttplate with trap door for cleaning kit (Missing), semi-pistol grip, sling stud on the belly, and cut for bayonet. The bayonet and cleaning rod are attached. There is handling wear. There are scratches and compression marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 12.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock rates in about Fair overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright and the rifling is pronounced with spots of missing rifling. There is heavy erosion and pitting in the bore. There is fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates a 4 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows handling and storage wear. There are scratches and light nicks throughout. The receiver and barrel has turned to a light patina. There are a few spots of surface rust throughout. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall this rifle rates in about Very Good Condition.
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: This rifle comes with its attached bayonet, leather sling with pouch, and an oiler.
Our Assessment: The Yugoslav M59 was Zastava’s early domestic version of the Soviet SKS and entered serialized production in 1964 as Yugoslavia transitioned away from the bolt-action M48 Mauser. Chambered in 7.62x39mm, the M59 retained the SKS’s gas-operated action, fixed 10-round magazine, folding bayonet, and conventional military sights, but unlike the later M59/66 it lacks the distinctive grenade launcher, grenade sight, and gas shutoff system. Yugoslav M59 rifles were also produced without chrome-lined bores. Serial number B-15403 is consistent with 1964 production, and this example retains matching-numbered major components including the receiver, bolt, bolt carrier, trigger guard, and stock. The extensive trench art carved into the stock adds considerable individual character and reflects the long service history commonly encountered on Yugoslav military arms.
This rifle retains approximately 96% of its original blue finish with scratches, light nicks, areas of patina, scattered surface rust, and normal handling and storage wear. The wood stock rates in Fair condition with extensive scratches, compression marks, handling wear, and trench art, but no chips or cracks. The bore is semi-bright with pronounced rifling but exhibits heavy erosion, pitting, fouling, and localized areas of diminished rifling, rating 4/10 in this writer’s opinion. The action functions correctly, though we did not fire this rifle. The rifle includes its attached bayonet and cleaning rod, along with a leather sling with pouch and an oiler. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! -N.P