Russian SKS-45 SKS45 Tula Arsenal 7.62x39mm Semi Automatic Rifle, 1953 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1301
LSB#: 210506MW82
Make: Russian, Tula Arsenal (Imported by CDI, Swan VT)
Model: SKS-45
Serial Number: BM5256 (Arsenal) CCCP96204 (Import Applied)
Year of Manufacture: 1953
Caliber: 7.62x39mm
Action Type: Semi Automatic Fixed Magazine Rifle
Markings: The left side of the receiver, back of the receiver cover, the left side of the buttstock, the bolt carrier (hand-scribed), bolt (hand-scribed), trigger guard, the underside of the gas tube (hand-scribed), and the magazine cover are marked with the original arsenal serial number, “BM5256”. The right side of the receiver is import-marked “SKS 7.62X39 / C.D.I. SWAN, VT”, “MADE IN RUSSIA”, and the import serial number, “CCCP96204”. The receiver cover is marked with the Tula Arsenal arrow in a star stamp and “1953r”.
Barrel Length: Approximately 20 1/2”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable, hooded post. The rear sight is a “U” notched sliding escalator marked from “1-10” and “-n-” at the base.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a smooth wood with a pistol grip, through bolt, sling swivel loop, cutout for the included folding bayonet, ventilated handguard, and a sheet steel buttplate with a cleaning kit trapdoor (kit included). There are light nicks and dings throughout, but they are most notable along the left side. The hand-guard has a few minor drag lines on the left side. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 12 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has light wear with light finish loss on the heel and light nicks scattered about. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good condition, as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Arsenal Refinished
Bore Condition: The chrome lined bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 92% of its current metal finish. The barrel has intermittent light nicks on the right side. The gas tube has a few light nicks on the top. There is light finish loss and light nicks at the muzzle, outside the crown. Screws show light tool marks and have strong slots. All other markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good-to-Fine condition, as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This rifle includes an olive drab sling that has light handling wear, light pilling throughout, and rates in Very Good condition.
Our Assessment: This Russian SKS-45 was made back in 1953 at the Tula Arsenal, and later refinished for importation to the US. It has matching part numbers on the metal and a large Tula Arsenal “star” on the receiver cover. The bore is in great shape and the rifle should be putting 7.62×39 down range for a long time to come. These are fun rifles with lots of history behind them and seemingly endless variations. Good luck and happy bidding!