Tula Russian SKS 7.62×39 20.5” Semi-Auto Rifle, Matching Arsenal Marks 1954
SOLD FOR: $1,125.00
LSB#: WY240923TH004
Make: Tula Arsenal (Russian)
Model: SKS
Serial Number: IM1735 is the import serial number; the original serial is NM1735
Year of Manufacture: 1954
Caliber: 7.62×39
Action Type: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Left side of the receiver marked with Russian Cyrillic “IM/NM1735”. Left side of the wooden buttstock is stamped with a star with an arrow with “NM1735” and “1954r” . The rear of the receiver’s dust cover, top of the bolt, the gas tube, magazine and trigger guard are all marked with matching serial numbers. The top of the receiver cover is marked with Tula Arsenal star logo with an arrow inside it and the production year “1954r” is stamped below the star. Rear sights marked with numbers “1-10” and “n”, stamped with a triangular proof. There are proofs throughout the stock, receiver, trunnion, and barrel. The right side of the barrel is marked “C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT. /SKS 7.62X39”
Barrel Length: 20.25”. Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable, hooded post. The rear sight is a “U” tangent notch leaf sight marked from “1 – 10” and “n”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The Russian Red stock is in very good to excellent condition. The numbers on the stock match the receiver. There are other Russian acceptance marks on the stock as well. The LOP measures about 12.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. There are some scratches and compression marks but nothing out of the ordinary for an imported rifle such as this. There is a heavy amount of light scuffs on the left side of the stock. There are no chips or cracks. The forend has a cutout for the attached spring blade bayonet. Cleaning rod is included. The cleaning kit is in the buttstock.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Factory Refurbished
Bore Condition: The chrome bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows some scratches and scuffs on the receiver as well as some minimal finish loss on some of the leading edges. The hinged magazine is original. The mag, bayonet, stock is in very good condition. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about excellent condition as C&R.
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 and cleaning rod, the cleaning kit.
Our Assessment: The Tula SKS is a variant of the renowned SKS (Samozaryadny Karabin sistemy Simonova), a Soviet semi-automatic carbine that holds a significant place in military history. The Tula Arsenal, one of the most famous firearms manufacturers in Russia, produced this particular variant. The SKS was designed by Sergei Gavrilovich Simonov in 1945 and was one of the first firearms to be chambered in the 7.62×39mm cartridge, which later became famous with the introduction of the AK-47.
Production of the SKS at the Tula Arsenal began shortly after World War II. The Tula SKS is distinguished by its excellent build quality and attention to detail, characteristics for which the Tula Arsenal was renowned. The SKS was designed as a shorter, more manageable rifle than the rifles it was intended to replace, featuring a fixed 10-round magazine, a bayonet, and a grenade-launching attachment. It was initially intended for use by Soviet airborne troops and motorized infantry.
Despite being overshadowed by the later and more famous AK-47, the SKS remained in service for many years and was widely exported to various countries. It saw extensive use in numerous conflicts around the world and was appreciated for its robustness and reliability. The Tula SKS, in particular, is sought after by collectors and shooting enthusiasts for its historical significance and the quality associated with its place of manufacture. The SKS marks an important transitional period in firearms design, bridging the gap between the traditional bolt-action rifles of the early 20th century and the modern assault rifles that would come to dominate the latter half of the century.
This Russian SKS has all matching parts including its red stock. With the blade bayonet and cleaning kit it will make an excellent item in any collection. 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.
