Rare PreBan Norinco 56S-1 Underfolder AK-47 7.62×39 16” Sile N.Y. Import

SOLD FOR: $1,876.00

WOA#: WY240610GM001

Make: Norinco

Model:  56S-1

Serial Number: 56S-1 516816

Year of Manufacture: Pre-1989

Caliber: 7.62 x 39

Action Type: Semi-Automatic

Markings: Left side of the receiver is marked with the factory “66” inside a triangular outline with “56S-1 516816” next to it.  Below that is marked “SEMI AUTO 7.62mm x 39 MADE IN CHINA BY NORINCO SILE N.Y. N.Y.”.  The dust cover and bolt carrier are marked, “6816” on the left side.  The bolt matches. The right side of the receiver is marked, “S F”.  The right side of the trunnion is marked, “B”.  The dust cover release is marked with several proofs.  The rear of the front sight is marked with proofs as well.

Barrel Length: 16.25”.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable hooded pin. The rear sight is a “U” tangent notch marked from “1 – 8” and “D”.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is wood with a smooth wooden pistol grip and steel wire underfolder buttstock. The LOP measures 12.75” from the front of the trigger to the back of the underfolder stock. There are some light scratches and impression marks in the wood.  The left lower handguard has a small amount of damage. The pistol grip has a hefty scar on the right side. (See Photos)  The stock rates in about Fine overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition:  None.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore.  There is some fouling in the rifling. The bore rates at 9/10 in this writer’s opinion.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows minimal wear for a pre-ban rifle of its origin.  There are scattered light scratches throughout the receiver and dust cover.   There is some minor wear on the bottom of the receiver and on the trunnion. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about very Fine 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: Sling

Our Assessment:   This is a great example of one of the rarest and most sought after commercially imported AK platforms. One of the very first semi-auto AK47s imported into the US from China, the Norinco 56S-1 semi-automatic is a simple and sturdy military rifle that has the classic wood furniture, hooded front post sight, under barrel cleaning rod capture, bayonet,  and general appeal of pre-ban AK rifles. These early imports are of much higher quality than the examples made a few years later and the fit and finish is much nicer. The rifle is in fine shape even without its detachable magazine; it’s a sleek build, offering speed and sturdiness both on and off the range. Truly, this firearm is ready to be put through the test of a twenty-first century range visit, or it is ready to become your newest safe queen, adding a jewel to the crown of any firearm collection. Everything is tight and operates smoothly, with a great mix of old quality function and classic style. As far as the collecting of Pre-Ban semi-auto Kalashnikov type rifles goes, this one is a must have! So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition in our high quality photos. Good luck on your bid. -K.F.