I I will soon get a Norinco SKS Paratrooper body number is 25003601. Could you please tell me the year it was produced, Mr. Trouble? Before this group of numbers there is a rectangle inside a group of numbers: 0136, followed by three Chinese: "五六式", looking forward to your authoritative answer, thank you very much 🙏
I am fascinated by the amount of knowledge you share. You're very easy to listen to and don't come across as pedantic or patronizing, more like a friend over coffee sharing what he's learned over the years. Thanks dude, it is appreciated.
Hey thank you for this! I'm learning a lot of history. I got an old $200 Chinese SKS, all matching 6 digits SN (270xxx /26\), with the threaded barrel and blade bayonet, that I bought over 10 years ago. So excited to clean it up and start my sanding project for fun. Your channel is cool! Thanks!
Thank you. Very well done video and in-depth information for this often overlooked classic surplus rifle.. which, by the way, has been appreciating by leaps and bounds in recent years..
I so glad you are making these videos because I spent hours looking at the sks boards and Yoopers website trying to research my rifle. It has a 5 digit serial number with no arsenal mark and lightening cuts on the bolt and bayonet lug. The front stock retainer has a V cut that looks like it would be for a blade bayonet, but when I bought the rifle it didn't come with a bayonet so I put a spike bayonet on it. With the help of your videos I now know that it's a first year production type 56.
@Triangle26 i think i'm in trouble, i was sold a chinese type 56 as a C&R, rectangle 0138, SN 7508113 So 1975? So not C&R until next year? All numbers matching, i received it full of cosmoline, spike bayo, short collar threaded barrel
you have one of the most valuable channels for mil surp owners/shooters/collectors that i have run across; i was able to rather easily date my (probably) 1969 Chinese sks 14023xx...clearly not restamped anywhere; milled and short threaded barrel (extension)...triangle 106 ...this is the only sks i managed to gather-and-keep; all my early collection was Russian and Romanian...sold off with my other mil surp collections...oh well...i kept the Chinese because it was in such beautiful shape, and is a great shooter...thanks
Thank you so much. I had no idea there was separate date and production codes in what we think of as the Serial Number. This is the first I've heard of it. Very valuable info.
Dude hell yeah I watched the whole video expecting not to hear about M21s. I picked mine up today brand new unfired with original box/receipt from 1994 for $600.
Mine has the date code 11 separated by a space and then the serial 3XXXXX so mine was made mid-year 66. And I am currently cleaning my new-to-me SKS - it's quite well experienced but after pushing a worm of cosmolene out of the bore, I was able to see a beautiful, shiny bore with strong rifling which pleased me to no end. So happy to have a good example back in my collection and I'm looking forward to shooting it after I get it cleaned up.
Your affinity for this rifle is contagious. What a great, simple, and robust rifle. The Chinese definitely seemed to cherish this platform. Thanks for your breakdown on the serial number and markings. I had been trying to lookup the type 63, 81, and some later models. Seems they liked the original sks so much they wanted to modernize yet do something different than the Soviets. Would love to see a video on information about those rifles.They seem to be very rare since that 89 ban came shortly after some were brought in. There's just not a lot of information on those. Keep up the good work! Well done!
That's a great idea. I do find those rifles fascinating as well and it would be great to find a way to work them into a presentation. It's funny because the Type 63 is actually one of the more heavily produced rifle platforms in history (I think it's easily in the top 10 autoloaders), but due to its select fire mechanism and some of the politics associated with it - an absolute unicorn in the US.
That's amazing.. I believe some reviewers have said there are type 63, 81s in Canada. Don't know if they're still being brought in with all the banning going on there now. Be nice if some could find there way down here. Looking forward to more videos. Your content is highly valued. Thanks
Thank you for cutting through the mystical, mythical wives' tales about dating non-/26\ SKSs. Really not all that complicated. Confucius say my /416\ is a 1971. I've wondered for years. Another great video!
This helped me a ton. I knew my sks was a force matched commercial variant, the stock and trigger guard were renumbered. But the receiver, magazine and bolt group are from /206\ manufactured in 1966.
Great video. I’m about to pick up my first SKS tomorrow. More than likely just a late 80s, early 90s model but I’ll be checking that serial # before I buy. Liked and subscribed!
I watch everything you post. thanks for answering my question. I'm sure your subscriber count is going to skyrocket. I have noticed that many of the non-refurb Chinese sks's brought into Canada (starting around 10 years ago), had a serial number like 151XXXXX, from various factories, and not triangle 26. So, in my case, the two I bought separately, were both made in 1970. I probably handled 10 more and all had a similar 151 serial number. So perhaps these Chinese military SKS's were warehoused not according to factory but to year, and they liquidated one or more warehouses into Canada at that time. Just a theory. Later on, when Cabelas started selling sks's in a rougher condition, many that I looked at were triangle 26. I probably looked through 100 of them at one point for a friend, wish I would have known what you shared in this video when I picked one for him.
That’s a very interesting observation. I think your theory is very likely true, and I am aware of a number of data points that support it. Another important consideration in all of this is the fact that there are *far* more Chinese factory marks than there are actual factories. There are hundreds of distinct marks, but only 25 or so actual production facilities. I’m not exactly sure how that fits into the puzzle, but I imagine it has something to do with why we see rifles with the same date code but different factory codes being imported together.
Mine is a really early 1965 10 mil series. Probably of the first thousands when they swapped to the Spike bayonet and short lug. My friend has a sino model and aside of the minor differences, they are of the same quality.
Thanks for helping out. I am happy to hear from you about your opinion and knowledge on the Chinese SKS rifles. I'm definitely interested in them, too.
Ah - just replied to your other comment. Hopefully this video helped with your commercial dating question, but if not, let me know. We’ll get it sorted out.
Just talked to my brother and he's got one of those SKS with a low number with the letter B on front of th number, he's really stoked about the historic importance of the rifle, it has one of those red fiberglass baked stocks on it.
@@luisbelmont9222 🤣 I used Reddit for a couple months, but it was not good for my mental health. Reddit is a place where arguing is mandatory, but research is forbidden.
9 more days left in NY state to buy semiautomatic rifles without needing a license with a many years wait time. I got my buddy into SKS two weeks ago and he made sure to get his last week. He kind of overpaid but it’s still worth it!
Boy, that’s rough. Sorry to hear that. Glad your buddy got one before the door closed. That’s as good of a reason as any to overpay. I certainly can’t judge, I overpaid for one last week and I didn’t even have a great excuse lol 🤷♂️
Or.... Don't live in such a shit hole. Move elsewhere and don't bring the shit hole attitude, politics and thinking with you. Starve them of their funds and attention and let it crumble to the ground.
I was visiting family in New York when this comment was posted, yall are screwed, I'm in the Florida free zone and picked up a nice sks a few days ago with matching #s under 3k with a 17 + 5 #s , 17020XX
My point for owning a Chinese SKS is that anybody worth their salt can make a good gun, but a great gun stands out on it's own. The Chinese SKS is one of those great few guns. Here in FL, the SKS is primarily used for Hog culls and Gator harvesting. A trusted platform used with dangerous quarry.
For my fellow Canadians they are on sale for 450$ at cabellas starting today for black friday sales, not sure when it ends but 100$ off the rifle. 50$ of 550 rounds of surplus ammo. 890$ Canadian for 1100 rounds of surplus and what looks like an unfired 1969 factory 26 with matching numbers
I have an M21 bring home captured by my mentor, still has blood on the original sling, in 1964 outside of Danang. It's probably one of the early type56 made totally by Chinese.
When I want to date an SKS I usually take it to a movie or dinner. Seriously though, I like you're videos. You definitely have SKS issues buddy. I have around 7 myself to include a Polish one I recently put together. You should address the Polish (Russian) version sometime.
That's a great idea. Unfortunately I haven't (yet) had the opportunity to get hands on with a Polish issued SKS-45, but I agree it's a very interesting part of the larger SKS story. Thank you for watching and commenting.
Based on your excellent descriptions and analysis, apparently I have one "ghost" guns and one famine gun. Or two ghost guns. I not sure because one of the carbines has a F prefix and I'm too lazy to pull it out of the safe to see if the F is importation marking. Thanks for this excellent video!
Fantastic information. I’m just learning about the SKS. Mine is 12xxxxx. I’m thinking I have a rifle made in 1967. There is a D suffix but it’s not in direct alignment with the serial numbers so I’m thinking that’s an example of a meaningless importer marks. My pop acquired this SKS in 1992 as I recall. We’ve shot it a good bit and used it deer hunting but never really studied its features. I’m gonna take it out to the range soon. It’s been a while since I’ve had fun with it.
My sks is a triangle 26 with the Chinese marking, and 8 didgit serial number, so as I understand mine is 11 so year 66 000xxx 11000xxx thank you for the information. I just stumbles across your videos, watched a couple so far, will be watching more.
I don't know if this is correct t across the board, but it appears that if you look at the numbers elsewhere on one, they do not have the date code. So if say the number on the receiver says 1832020, but it just says 32020 everywhere else, that would seem to imply the date code is "18". Just a thought. I am FAR from an expert and just trying to learn more about these before pulling the trigger on getting one(pun most definitely intended!). Great video as per usual!
Thanks for helping me understand my /26\ I started watching your videos to correctly date it (1966 & thanks for that) to sell but now, I'm not soo sure lol. Thanks for sharing your knowledge 🫡
Amazing video. I was so confused as to which numbers I found were the actual serial number. From what I can tell, I think I have a mixmatch of different parts. But I'm not certain if the Chinese didn't do it that way for the different parts. Example: Reciver D-51946 Magazine well F-117583 Bolt 0-00 004. Looks like similar features of several serial numbers you mentioned.
OK seriously - I have an SKS on the way to me now - and thanks to you - I know that it's a 1966 copy given it's serial starts with 11. It's also stamped with the triangle 26 and Chinese characters so...
Awesome, the “letter series” rifles are super cool! There is a high probability that the “J” prefix represents October of 1959, however we don’t have conclusive documentation on that. It’s possible it was made during a different month of 1959, or even in 1960. But October 1959 is the most likely.
now i know mine is a LETTER rifle and low 4 digit below 5000 serial number so it would be built in 1959 and 1 of the first 5,000 made guess that's pretty cool ain't it? it has the blade bayo,, long lug and milled out right side go bolt. glad it's a cool one took me 2 weeks to clean all the cosmoline off of it. oh yeah, all total matching serial number too.
Great video!!! very informative and helpful for sks rifles. I'm still at a loss on my serial number. You dident say alot about numbers in the last section of commercial stuff in late 80s and 90s. That's probably what I have. It's a 114 73783
Hey I responded to your email as well, but short version you seem to have a 1966 example. The picture you sent me shows a /26\ Arsenal mark, three character military model designation and 8 digit serial number - and that is not what we would see on an 80’s or 90’s commercial rifle.
Thanks dude just got Chinese Sks from my pops and I been trying to figure out the date turns out mine was made in 1991 just one year older than me and has production number great than 04000
That’s fairly typical for that era. After the Sino-Vietnamese Border war of 1979, the Chinese aggressively phased out the Type 56 Carbine in 1980. Many of the most recent production examples, to include 1978, were therefor surplussed and exported without ever being issued!
Getting to know a chinese sks personally is important first. You should really just be honest about your feelings with them, and see if they feel the same way sooner rather than later.
Hey triangle26 , I jus purchased a norinco sks, I belive I have narrowed my model down to a 70’s model but is there anyway I could email you a picture of mine to help confirm the age of my rifle? The serial number is a 7 digit but there is a c5- before the 7 digit serial. That is the one thing I’m curious about , thanks in advance
Thanks for another great video. I really appreciate the detail you use. I have a quick question? I have two what I believe are more modern commercial SKS,s bought in Vancouver around 2006. There is only one set of markings on each; SKS 762x39 040127? Made in China Cant find anyplace that looks like # were ground off and it came with a 1” thick hard rubber but pad on it. Can anything be determined by these markings? Thanks for any help you can provide. Cheers
Hmm, unfortunately nothing I can tell you for certain based on those markings alone. Aside from the fact that they are surely excellent rifles. That’s an atypical serial number, and when deciphering atypical numbers, we rely heavily on a wide variety of features to help narrow down what era or eras the components were made, and how they were assembled.
That’s unusual but not unheard of. There are a few possible explanations, but the most likely would be that your rifle was originally manufactured in 1959 with a blade bayonet, and it just got reconfigured at some point over the last 64 years. It could have been done by the Chinese while in military service, it could have been done during exportation, or it could have been a previous owner in the US.
Mine seems pretty easy, 92 20108 would be 1992 #20108 non /26\ if I was paying attention. I don't know if you'll see this, but here is a video I made about the one I just bought. It looked like it had never been fired, because it wasn't due to about a 5% successful feed rate. This video briefly covers what I did to make it feed. I suspect if it's from 92 China rushed production to move rifles before the impending 94 assault weapon ban in the USA. I'd be happy to get your thoughts on this. Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/k2iGEBHSHRE/v-deo.htmlsi=ONegea_-YnBIqiwA Thanks for posting this!
My rifle is marked Norinco, Pomona CA, and has matching numbers of W1032. According to this video it would be a 1960? This is a very informative video!!
Okay so, making sure i got this right because boy is this fucking wild... I think mine is made in 1988 in a factory that wasnt 296.. The serial is 88079XX Did i come to the right or even close conclusion? I know it was made much earlier & refurbished because of the way it was made (older features) but thats what my code says... Yes it's me the same guy stalking your channel trying to reconnect with my childhood rifle.... Thanks again for your years of knowledge you've shared with us all
Yep, everything you’ve said sounds accurate. I responded to another one of your comments in greater detail, but basically I came to the same conclusion. If you ever want to shoot me pictures by email - I’ll be happy to confirm identification.
Ok, point of confusion-contention. Someone stated date codes should be added to 1956 rather than 1955, so I’m confused, lol. Their claim, I assume is because type 56’s were first made in 1956. But, “type 63’s” first year of production was 1969, not 1963. So “type 63” doesn’t represent first year of production, it represents the year the weapon was approved for production. My SKS is numbered 14 186,471, all serial #’s matching, with one exception. Thus, according to your dating example, my SKS was manufactured in 1969, in the 180k block. But according to the others, it was manufactured in 1970. Which one is correct? This is significant because in the 1970’s quality of production dropped significantly, at least on type 63’s. Not sure about type 56’s made in the 70’s. I noted serial numbers all match with one exception. The firing pin block has serial #K8029. I don’t know if this came from a K model SKS or from the K armory in the USA? My SKS is the Brinklee so called “Paratrooper”. So the firing pin block may have been changed by them. I’d just like confirmation that this is a 1969 model and not 1970. One note of interest. My SKS has a milled receiver, threaded barrel (Russian design) but, interestingly has the “cast” gas block (Chinese) instead of the milled gas block (Russian).
PS: I mention the cast gas block (made by China), as it apparently preceded the stamped receiver with pinned barrel design by the Chinese. So, it appears to be the first modification to Russian design, by China.
14 million block is 1969. This has been proven beyond any reasonable doubt using original Chinese documentation. Anyone who is still pushing the "add to 56" theory is simply regurgitating something they read on a forum 10 years ago, and is not remotely engaged in the sincere study of these rifles. Production quality did not ever significantly drop for Type 56 Carbines. Production methods changed, but the quality and function remained excellent. Many experienced SKS collectors (myself included) consider the Type 56 Carbines produced at State Arsenal 296 in the late 1970's to be one of the highest quality production variants ever made. I can't comment on the quality of Type 63's. I live in the United States where firsthand observation of large numbers of Type 63's is not possible, and I base my conclusions on direct observations rather than hearsay. I don't know what component you are referring to when you say "firing pin block". The Type 56 Carbine does not contain a firing pin block. It contains a firing pin retaining pin, which is not generally a serialized component. Although cast gas blocks are Chinese, they are still exceedingly uncommon and most commonly seen on very late commercial products. 98%+ of the ten million SKS patterns produced by China have milled gas blocks. In fact, China made 3 times more SKS patterns with milled gas blocks than Russia did. The explanation for this feature on your rifle is because your rifle is a Bricklee paratrooper. Although your rifle was *originally manufactured* as a Type 56 Carbine in 1969, it underwent *commercial overhaul* in the 1980's. At this time they cut down the original barrel, and added a new cast gas block. They made have replaced other parts at this time, such as the component you describe as a firing pin block. Finally, you describe the threaded barrel interface as a Russian design, which is only half true. The threaded barrel interface used on Type 56 Carbines made in 1969 is a "short lug", which is actually a distinctly Chinese design. If you hold it up next to any Soviet SKS-45, you will see the Soviets exclusively used a "long lug". I hope that clears things up.
Regarding your PS: You have the Type 56 Carbine timeline pretty turned around. The cast gas block was not the "first modification to the Russian design", it was one of the very last modifications, and it never actually caught on. The Chinese made literally dozens of modifications to the sling swivel, firing pin, stock, bayonet, lightening cuts, barrel interface, takedown lever, rear sight, and other components *decades* before they started thinking about casting gas blocks. As for "the stamped reciever", that's not really a thing. Yes - the Chinese produced *a handful* of Type 56 Carbines with stamped recievers, but they are extraordinarily rare and are absolutely not representative of Chinese production. 99.9999% of the 10 million Chinese SKS patterns ever produced have milled receivers, whether they were made in 1956 or 1994. Pressed and pinned barrels were absolutely a significant and distinctly Chinese feature, but they were not adopted by all factories. State Arsenal 296 was making threaded barrel interface Type 56 Carbines as late as 1981.
Good info, thanks. I’ve only had this SKS for about 40 days. Never had one before that so still sorting it out. The cast gas block threw me off, hadn’t considered that Bricklee might have replaced it. I can identify most of the changes Bricklee made. What I called the firing pin block is what you call the retainer, I think. The part the firing pin is inside of that you do the shake test with. It has serial #K8092. Bricklee probably put this in but no idea where they got it.
Thank you for your videos, and also thanks for your service. " All the Way" Airborne Tankers "Thunder Bolts". I think I have an early 1957 "?" all matching numbers, 6 digit serial number 132XXX "Ghost" Sino-Soviet type. It does not have any other Arsenal stamps. It has the Import markings (I.O.inc. Monroe NC./ M56 7.62x39mm China), this is laser engraved on the right side of the barrel below the gas tube. It has Russian inspection stamp marks inside. The receiver plate cover has Russian star with 1951 'r' no serial number on cover. Barrel is not chrome lined with blade bayonet. I purchased the rifle in 2013, in Mustang Oklahoma. Is there any way to tell if this a real Ghost gun?
Back at you Airborne, ATW. I'm a little confused by the description of your rifle. The serial number is correct for a 1957, as you state. The receiver cover you are describing is not correct - that's definitely a Tula/Soviet made part. There is theoretically a possibility that this was a Russian spare part which was actually brought into China for use in the early builds, although I think it's more likely that it just got swapped at some point in service. An original ghost should be chrome lined as well, but for that matter, essentially all Chinese SKS patterns should be. Sometimes the milky chrome can be hard to visually identify, although of course I'll trust your own discretion there. You are welcome to send pictures of the rifle to "triangletwentysix@gmail.com", I'd be happy to offer you a more informed opinion based on visual inspection.
When are we going to see the ghost gun video? Really enjoyed watching all your videos. Very interested to hear all your thoughts on the first years Chinese production rifles without the triangle 26 markings.
Hopefully soon. I'm steering away from offering hard timelines (because I literally always fail to meet them), but I can say that the Ghost video is a high priority for me and technically "in progress". I doubt it will be my next video, but I would guess it will be in the next three.
Immediately get a long dream of the *Chinese Norinco SKS Paratrooper The number of the Semi-Auto Rifle is 25003601. Could you tell me the year it was produced, Mr. Trouble? Before this group of numbers there is a rectangle inside a group of numbers: 0136, followed by three Chinese: "Type five and six", looking forward to your authoritative answer, thank you very much 🙏
Thank you very much for your answer. Today I am so happy, because I really want to get a Chinese type 56 SKS after watching your program. I wanted to see a Mosin Nagant that day, but it has already been sold, but it is almost new and has the correct number and comes with Red Star 4*24 sniper mirror. Thank you for bringing me good luck. I think this is the last batch of Chinese SKS legally imported.
My Chinese SKS is weird and I’ve only been able to find one pic of one that looks similar. -It doesn’t have the triangle marking or any triangle marking whatsoever. -It has no Chinese lettering at all. -It has no box or box symbol at all. All it says on the left side is: CAI ST ALB VT NORINCO CHINA 7.62x39 With the serial number 9016xxx on the top right (slightly above where the VT is). (All numbers are matching as well)
I’ve never seen someone so knowledgeable about the SKS.
Same here. He is the best 👌
Me and my chinese sks have been happily married ever since I saw this video! thanks for the dating advice
Fantastic video! Thanks for taking the time to contribute to the sks community. Much appreciated.
Thanks very much for watching and commenting, I appreciate it!
I I will soon get a Norinco SKS Paratrooper body number is 25003601. Could you please tell me the year it was produced, Mr. Trouble? Before this group of numbers there is a rectangle inside a group of numbers: 0136, followed by three Chinese: "五六式", looking forward to your authoritative answer, thank you very much 🙏
@@Markusamanguns I hope you get your answer soon! I have a very similar situation with my Norinco
Just bought a Norinco, your knowledge is outstanding,
Congrats on the rifle, thank you for watching!
I am fascinated by the amount of knowledge you share. You're very easy to listen to and don't come across as pedantic or patronizing, more like a friend over coffee sharing what he's learned over the years. Thanks dude, it is appreciated.
Hey thank you for this! I'm learning a lot of history. I got an old $200 Chinese SKS, all matching 6 digits SN (270xxx /26\), with the threaded barrel and blade bayonet, that I bought over 10 years ago. So excited to clean it up and start my sanding project for fun. Your channel is cool! Thanks!
I have a sks in E than 5 numbers sks wonder if it’s rare or not
Thank you. Very well done video and in-depth information for this often overlooked classic surplus rifle.. which, by the way, has been appreciating by leaps and bounds in recent years..
Thanks a ton, I appreciate the feedback.
I so glad you are making these videos because I spent hours looking at the sks boards and Yoopers website trying to research my rifle. It has a 5 digit serial number with no arsenal mark and lightening cuts on the bolt and bayonet lug. The front stock retainer has a V cut that looks like it would be for a blade bayonet, but when I bought the rifle it didn't come with a bayonet so I put a spike bayonet on it. With the help of your videos I now know that it's a first year production type 56.
Outstanding - glad the videos were helpful. Congrats on having a first year! I have a new video on that variant which will be coming out later today.
@Triangle26 i think i'm in trouble, i was sold a chinese type 56 as a C&R, rectangle 0138, SN 7508113
So 1975? So not C&R until next year?
All numbers matching, i received it full of cosmoline, spike bayo, short collar threaded barrel
You're a beast, I love your videos.
I got myself an 81 factory 26 sks beauty type 56. Thank you for helping me figure that out!
Glad to be of help!
you have one of the most valuable channels for mil surp owners/shooters/collectors that i have run across;
i was able to rather easily date my (probably) 1969 Chinese sks 14023xx...clearly not restamped anywhere;
milled and short threaded barrel (extension)...triangle 106 ...this is the only sks i managed to gather-and-keep;
all my early collection was Russian and Romanian...sold off with my other mil surp collections...oh well...i kept the Chinese because it was in such beautiful shape, and is a great shooter...thanks
Thanks a bunch, and I'm glad to be of help!
Thank you so much. I had no idea there was separate date and production codes in what we think of as the Serial Number. This is the first I've heard of it. Very valuable info.
Dude hell yeah I watched the whole video expecting not to hear about M21s. I picked mine up today brand new unfired with original box/receipt from 1994 for $600.
Awesome. M21s are about as cool as it gets, and I hope to have a video on them soon. Thanks so much for watching and subscribing.
Went by adding 11 to 55. have a 66. 107k + triangle on it. Excellent rifle never had a hiccup while shooting it. Had it for over 30 yrs probably .
Awesome, glad to hear it. Hard to argue with decades of perfect reliability.
I have a 66 in the 9k range. Mine also has "p" after the serial number. Does yours have that?..any clue what the "p" stands for?
@mrchoochoo1969 that I couldn't tell you could be proof tested , I'll look into it too .
Thank you so much! I learned a lot. Looking forward to the Ghost Gun video!
I just got my first SKS today and I absolutely believe it's a 1991 type 56 carbine.
Your videos are articulate and very informative. I was able to accurately date my Chinese 56type to a 1957. Thanks for the knowledge bro
Hanks for watching, and congrats on having a ‘57! Great year
Mine has the date code 11 separated by a space and then the serial 3XXXXX so mine was made mid-year 66. And I am currently cleaning my new-to-me SKS - it's quite well experienced but after pushing a worm of cosmolene out of the bore, I was able to see a beautiful, shiny bore with strong rifling which pleased me to no end. So happy to have a good example back in my collection and I'm looking forward to shooting it after I get it cleaned up.
I have so much respect for your passion concerning the SKS. I thought I had read or watched about everything that can be known about the SKS. Bravo!
Your affinity for this rifle is contagious. What a great, simple, and robust rifle. The Chinese definitely seemed to cherish this platform. Thanks for your breakdown on the serial number and markings. I had been trying to lookup the type 63, 81, and some later models. Seems they liked the original sks so much they wanted to modernize yet do something different than the Soviets. Would love to see a video on information about those rifles.They seem to be very rare since that 89 ban came shortly after some were brought in. There's just not a lot of information on those. Keep up the good work! Well done!
That's a great idea. I do find those rifles fascinating as well and it would be great to find a way to work them into a presentation.
It's funny because the Type 63 is actually one of the more heavily produced rifle platforms in history (I think it's easily in the top 10 autoloaders), but due to its select fire mechanism and some of the politics associated with it - an absolute unicorn in the US.
That's amazing.. I believe some reviewers have said there are type 63, 81s in Canada. Don't know if they're still being brought in with all the banning going on there now. Be nice if some could find there way down here. Looking forward to more videos. Your content is highly valued. Thanks
Just got my first SKS (Chinese) and used your video to discover that it was made in 1969. Many thanks.
Fantastic. Glad to be of help!
Fairly common year. They produced a lot in 69 and shipped them to Albania
Misunderstood the thumbnail. Still single.
Thank you for cutting through the mystical, mythical wives' tales about dating non-/26\ SKSs. Really not all that complicated. Confucius say my /416\ is a 1971. I've wondered for years. Another great video!
You're the man! Thanks for being so knowledgeable!
This helped me a ton. I knew my sks was a force matched commercial variant, the stock and trigger guard were renumbered. But the receiver, magazine and bolt group are from /206\ manufactured in 1966.
Great video. I’m about to pick up my first SKS tomorrow. More than likely just a late 80s, early 90s model but I’ll be checking that serial # before I buy. Liked and subscribed!
Thanks very much, and congrats on your first SKS! My late ‘80s model runs like a sewing machine 👍
Thankyou so much for your videos. Now if I can get the time to sit + figure my too out.
I watch everything you post. thanks for answering my question. I'm sure your subscriber count is going to skyrocket.
I have noticed that many of the non-refurb Chinese sks's brought into Canada (starting around 10 years ago), had a serial number like 151XXXXX, from various factories, and not triangle 26. So, in my case, the two I bought separately, were both made in 1970. I probably handled 10 more and all had a similar 151 serial number. So perhaps these Chinese military SKS's were warehoused not according to factory but to year, and they liquidated one or more warehouses into Canada at that time. Just a theory. Later on, when Cabelas started selling sks's in a rougher condition, many that I looked at were triangle 26. I probably looked through 100 of them at one point for a friend, wish I would have known what you shared in this video when I picked one for him.
That’s a very interesting observation.
I think your theory is very likely true, and I am aware of a number of data points that support it.
Another important consideration in all of this is the fact that there are *far* more Chinese factory marks than there are actual factories. There are hundreds of distinct marks, but only 25 or so actual production facilities. I’m not exactly sure how that fits into the puzzle, but I imagine it has something to do with why we see rifles with the same date code but different factory codes being imported together.
I feel like im getting closer.. been going down a fun rabbit hole of history to figure mine out. Binge watching the channel now!!
Awesome. Let me know if there is anything I might be able to help clarify.
You are my best UA-cam friend for SKS reviews. Thank you my friend.
Merry Christmas 🎅 🎄
Thanks, friend. Merry Christmas to you as well!
@@Triangle26 Thank you
Well done good Sir! Love mine.
Hell Yeah!! Triangle 26, Type 56, 1969 date code, somewhere just over 100000. Awesome!! Thanks!!
Mine is a really early 1965 10 mil series. Probably of the first thousands when they swapped to the Spike bayonet and short lug. My friend has a sino model and aside of the minor differences, they are of the same quality.
Thanks for helping out. I am happy to hear from you about your opinion and knowledge on the Chinese SKS rifles. I'm definitely interested in them, too.
Ah - just replied to your other comment. Hopefully this video helped with your commercial dating question, but if not, let me know. We’ll get it sorted out.
@Triangle26 My one "commercial" Type 56's is 3-7XXXX. It's a /26. I can't figure out this one. It's a spike bayonet.
Just talked to my brother and he's got one of those SKS with a low number with the letter B on front of th number, he's really stoked about the historic importance of the rifle, it has one of those red fiberglass baked stocks on it.
Awesome!
@@Triangle26I got the SKS carbine by Steve Kehaya and Joe Payer and there is not much on the Chinese SKS!
Funny our friends on Reddit and SKS boards have not seen this video 😅. Great Job explaining! Thanks!!!!😊
@@luisbelmont9222 🤣
I used Reddit for a couple months, but it was not good for my mental health. Reddit is a place where arguing is mandatory, but research is forbidden.
Thank you for your contribution and knowledge of the SKS! Hope this will help with mine!
Thanks! I hope it helped too, let me know if have a tricky one.
Thank you for video. It was well very done. 🍻
Thanks friend!
9 more days left in NY state to buy semiautomatic rifles without needing a license with a many years wait time. I got my buddy into SKS two weeks ago and he made sure to get his last week. He kind of overpaid but it’s still worth it!
Boy, that’s rough. Sorry to hear that.
Glad your buddy got one before the door closed. That’s as good of a reason as any to overpay. I certainly can’t judge, I overpaid for one last week and I didn’t even have a great excuse lol 🤷♂️
Or.... Don't live in such a shit hole. Move elsewhere and don't bring the shit hole attitude, politics and thinking with you. Starve them of their funds and attention and let it crumble to the ground.
I was visiting family in New York when this comment was posted, yall are screwed, I'm in the Florida free zone and picked up a nice sks a few days ago with matching #s under 3k with a 17 + 5 #s , 17020XX
Thanks. I just cleaned the cosmoline out of a pressed and pinned 1978 Type 56 from factory 674. It's nice to know some of the history.
Love your videos, always straightforward and informative.
I really appreciate that.
Thank you so much!! This was very easy to follow and found out mine was made in the mid 70s.
I enjoyed the video, thank you for sharing your process for breaking down the SN
Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching and commenting.
My point for owning a Chinese SKS is that anybody worth their salt can make a good gun, but a great gun stands out on it's own. The Chinese SKS is one of those great few guns. Here in FL, the SKS is primarily used for Hog culls and Gator harvesting. A trusted platform used with dangerous quarry.
Well said. Lots of good guns out there, but a few stand out as great. Chinese SKS is one of them for sure.
For my fellow Canadians they are on sale for 450$ at cabellas starting today for black friday sales, not sure when it ends but 100$ off the rifle. 50$ of 550 rounds of surplus ammo. 890$ Canadian for 1100 rounds of surplus and what looks like an unfired 1969 factory 26 with matching numbers
Thanks for posting, this cleared up a bunch.
Glad it was helpful, thank you for watching.
got a 1966 all matching ## number really love it
Thank you so much for this informative video. It's great to know now that my SKS was made in 1959 letter issue.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge on these rifles.
Excellent video buddy ! Really appreciate this one
I have an M21 bring home captured by my mentor, still has blood on the original sling, in 1964 outside of Danang. It's probably one of the early type56 made totally by Chinese.
Big help in dating my Chinese SKS. Thank you!
Glad to be of help!
Another informative video! Looks like mine was made in 76! All matching.
When I want to date an SKS I usually take it to a movie or dinner. Seriously though, I like you're videos. You definitely have SKS issues buddy. I have around 7 myself to include a Polish one I recently put together. You should address the Polish (Russian) version sometime.
That's a great idea. Unfortunately I haven't (yet) had the opportunity to get hands on with a Polish issued SKS-45, but I agree it's a very interesting part of the larger SKS story. Thank you for watching and commenting.
Based on your excellent descriptions and analysis, apparently I have one "ghost" guns and one famine gun. Or two ghost guns. I not sure because one of the carbines has a F prefix and I'm too lazy to pull it out of the safe to see if the F is importation marking. Thanks for this excellent video!
Fantastic information.
I’m just learning about the SKS. Mine is 12xxxxx. I’m thinking I have a rifle made in 1967. There is a D suffix but it’s not in direct alignment with the serial numbers so I’m thinking that’s an example of a meaningless importer marks. My pop acquired this SKS in 1992 as I recall. We’ve shot it a good bit and used it deer hunting but never really studied its features. I’m gonna take it out to the range soon. It’s been a while since I’ve had fun with it.
Awesome. All of the conclusions you have drawn are consistent with my best understandings!
My sks is a triangle 26 with the Chinese marking, and 8 didgit serial number, so as I understand mine is 11 so year 66 000xxx 11000xxx thank you for the information. I just stumbles across your videos, watched a couple so far, will be watching more.
I just found that what I thought was a 1956 is actually a 1957 Ghost SKS :) and my others are a '66 para and a '79 standard [138]. Cool info!
awesome vid, very informative!
Great video, very useful information.
Thanks for the great informative video
Another stellar video keep it up!
Thanks very much, I really appreciate the support.
thanks. your presentation is outstanding.
I really appreciate it, thanks for watching.
Imagine my disappointment when this video isn’t about starting a romantic relationship with an SKS.
Lol
I don't know if this is correct t across the board, but it appears that if you look at the numbers elsewhere on one, they do not have the date code. So if say the number on the receiver says 1832020, but it just says 32020 everywhere else, that would seem to imply the date code is "18". Just a thought. I am FAR from an expert and just trying to learn more about these before pulling the trigger on getting one(pun most definitely intended!). Great video as per usual!
That is often true - but as is always the case with Chinese rifles - there can be exceptions!
Thanks for helping me understand my
/26\ I started watching your videos to correctly date it (1966 & thanks for that) to sell but now, I'm not soo sure lol.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge 🫡
Amazing video. I was so confused as to which numbers I found were the actual serial number. From what I can tell, I think I have a mixmatch of different parts. But I'm not certain if the Chinese didn't do it that way for the different parts. Example:
Reciver D-51946
Magazine well
F-117583
Bolt 0-00 004.
Looks like similar features of several serial numbers you mentioned.
Thanks to you Sir, I determined I have an arsenal 16 made in 1981.
OK seriously - I have an SKS on the way to me now - and thanks to you - I know that it's a 1966 copy given it's serial starts with 11. It's also stamped with the triangle 26 and Chinese characters so...
I'm a new subscriber, and I love this channel. Armydad
Thanks a ton, Go Army!
From what I can tell, I’ve got a 71 (probably) but since prod number is in the 700xxx range I’m not sure… either way really cool that helped out a lot
Excellent information man!!!
I really appreciate that, thank you!
Thank You ! I learn so much from your videos! I picked up a 4 digit J letter series SKS today! Now I know what I have, Guessing 1959?
Awesome, the “letter series” rifles are super cool! There is a high probability that the “J” prefix represents October of 1959, however we don’t have conclusive documentation on that. It’s possible it was made during a different month of 1959, or even in 1960. But October 1959 is the most likely.
ah i have a 1959 letter seires very cool thanks man!!
Mine is a 1966, Ser# 244xxx inherited from my sweet dad.
Thank you, Triangle.
now i know mine is a LETTER rifle and low 4 digit below 5000 serial number so it would be built in 1959 and 1 of the first 5,000 made guess that's pretty cool ain't it? it has the blade bayo,, long lug and milled out right side go bolt. glad it's a cool one took me 2 weeks to clean all the cosmoline off of it. oh yeah, all total matching serial number too.
Great video!!! very informative and helpful for sks rifles. I'm still at a loss on my serial number. You dident say alot about numbers in the last section of commercial stuff in late 80s and 90s. That's probably what I have.
It's a 114 73783
Hey I responded to your email as well, but short version you seem to have a 1966 example. The picture you sent me shows a /26\ Arsenal mark, three character military model designation and 8 digit serial number - and that is not what we would see on an 80’s or 90’s commercial rifle.
Thanks dude just got Chinese Sks from my pops and I been trying to figure out the date turns out mine was made in 1991 just one year older than me and has production number great than 04000
Awesome, glad I could help!
My Chinese type56 SKS is made in 1978 damn it’s like brand new was covered in cosmolene grease all over inside and out
That’s fairly typical for that era.
After the Sino-Vietnamese Border war of 1979, the Chinese aggressively phased out the Type 56 Carbine in 1980. Many of the most recent production examples, to include 1978, were therefor surplussed and exported without ever being issued!
Thank you for this. Figure out my sks is 1979 and is a low production number
Glad to be of help. The 1979's are awesome, arguably one of the nicest SKS variants ever!
Getting to know a chinese sks personally is important first. You should really just be honest about your feelings with them, and see if they feel the same way sooner rather than later.
Hey triangle26 , I jus purchased a norinco sks, I belive I have narrowed my model down to a 70’s model but is there anyway I could email you a picture of mine to help confirm the age of my rifle? The serial number is a 7 digit but there is a c5- before the 7 digit serial. That is the one thing I’m curious about , thanks in advance
Absolutely! triangletwentysix@gmail.com
Thanks for the info , chinese letter series here
Awesome, great rifles.
Thanks for another great video. I really appreciate the detail you use. I have a quick question? I have two what I believe are more modern commercial SKS,s bought in Vancouver around 2006. There is only one set of markings on each;
SKS 762x39 040127?
Made in China
Cant find anyplace that looks like # were ground off and it came with a 1” thick hard rubber but pad on it. Can anything be determined by these markings? Thanks for any help you can provide. Cheers
Hmm, unfortunately nothing I can tell you for certain based on those markings alone. Aside from the fact that they are surely excellent rifles.
That’s an atypical serial number, and when deciphering atypical numbers, we rely heavily on a wide variety of features to help narrow down what era or eras the components were made, and how they were assembled.
I have an SKS which has spike bayonet and a number of Ixxxx, which is the letter I and 4 numbers after it. Not sure where that fits in.
That’s unusual but not unheard of. There are a few possible explanations, but the most likely would be that your rifle was originally manufactured in 1959 with a blade bayonet, and it just got reconfigured at some point over the last 64 years. It could have been done by the Chinese while in military service, it could have been done during exportation, or it could have been a previous owner in the US.
@@Triangle26 I also forgot to mention I bought it between 1986-88 and it has no other markings besides the serial number.
I have a 1956 ghost SKS!
Awesome. One of the coolest variants out there - in my opinion.
I was able to date 3 of mine thanks.
Excellent, I'm happy to hear that!
Mine seems pretty easy, 92 20108 would be 1992 #20108 non /26\ if I was paying attention.
I don't know if you'll see this, but here is a video I made about the one I just bought. It looked like it had never been fired, because it wasn't due to about a 5% successful feed rate. This video briefly covers what I did to make it feed. I suspect if it's from 92 China rushed production to move rifles before the impending 94 assault weapon ban in the USA. I'd be happy to get your thoughts on this. Here's the link:
ua-cam.com/video/k2iGEBHSHRE/v-deo.htmlsi=ONegea_-YnBIqiwA
Thanks for posting this!
My rifle is marked Norinco, Pomona CA, and has matching numbers of W1032. According to this video it would be a 1960? This is a very informative video!!
How to date any Chinese SKS? Offer it US citizenship! Ba--dum-bum!
😂
Okay so, making sure i got this right because boy is this fucking wild...
I think mine is made in 1988 in a factory that wasnt 296..
The serial is 88079XX
Did i come to the right or even close conclusion?
I know it was made much earlier & refurbished because of the way it was made (older features) but thats what my code says...
Yes it's me the same guy stalking your channel trying to reconnect with my childhood rifle....
Thanks again for your years of knowledge you've shared with us all
Yep, everything you’ve said sounds accurate. I responded to another one of your comments in greater detail, but basically I came to the same conclusion.
If you ever want to shoot me pictures by email - I’ll be happy to confirm identification.
Thanks man! @@Triangle26
Ok, point of confusion-contention. Someone stated date codes should be added to 1956 rather than 1955, so I’m confused, lol. Their claim, I assume is because type 56’s were first made in 1956.
But, “type 63’s” first year of production was 1969, not 1963. So “type 63” doesn’t represent first year of production, it represents the year the weapon was approved for production.
My SKS is numbered 14 186,471, all serial #’s matching, with one exception. Thus, according to your dating example, my SKS was manufactured in 1969, in the 180k block. But according to the others, it was manufactured in 1970. Which one is correct?
This is significant because in the 1970’s quality of production dropped significantly, at least on type 63’s. Not sure about type 56’s made in the 70’s.
I noted serial numbers all match with one exception. The firing pin block has serial #K8029. I don’t know if this came from a K model SKS or from the K armory in the USA?
My SKS is the Brinklee so called “Paratrooper”. So the firing pin block may have been changed by them.
I’d just like confirmation that this is a 1969 model and not 1970.
One note of interest. My SKS has a milled receiver, threaded barrel (Russian design) but, interestingly has the “cast” gas block (Chinese) instead of the milled gas block (Russian).
PS: I mention the cast gas block (made by China), as it apparently preceded the stamped receiver with pinned barrel design by the Chinese. So, it appears to be the first modification to Russian design, by China.
14 million block is 1969. This has been proven beyond any reasonable doubt using original Chinese documentation. Anyone who is still pushing the "add to 56" theory is simply regurgitating something they read on a forum 10 years ago, and is not remotely engaged in the sincere study of these rifles.
Production quality did not ever significantly drop for Type 56 Carbines. Production methods changed, but the quality and function remained excellent. Many experienced SKS collectors (myself included) consider the Type 56 Carbines produced at State Arsenal 296 in the late 1970's to be one of the highest quality production variants ever made. I can't comment on the quality of Type 63's. I live in the United States where firsthand observation of large numbers of Type 63's is not possible, and I base my conclusions on direct observations rather than hearsay.
I don't know what component you are referring to when you say "firing pin block". The Type 56 Carbine does not contain a firing pin block. It contains a firing pin retaining pin, which is not generally a serialized component.
Although cast gas blocks are Chinese, they are still exceedingly uncommon and most commonly seen on very late commercial products. 98%+ of the ten million SKS patterns produced by China have milled gas blocks. In fact, China made 3 times more SKS patterns with milled gas blocks than Russia did.
The explanation for this feature on your rifle is because your rifle is a Bricklee paratrooper. Although your rifle was *originally manufactured* as a Type 56 Carbine in 1969, it underwent *commercial overhaul* in the 1980's. At this time they cut down the original barrel, and added a new cast gas block. They made have replaced other parts at this time, such as the component you describe as a firing pin block.
Finally, you describe the threaded barrel interface as a Russian design, which is only half true. The threaded barrel interface used on Type 56 Carbines made in 1969 is a "short lug", which is actually a distinctly Chinese design. If you hold it up next to any Soviet SKS-45, you will see the Soviets exclusively used a "long lug".
I hope that clears things up.
Regarding your PS: You have the Type 56 Carbine timeline pretty turned around. The cast gas block was not the "first modification to the Russian design", it was one of the very last modifications, and it never actually caught on. The Chinese made literally dozens of modifications to the sling swivel, firing pin, stock, bayonet, lightening cuts, barrel interface, takedown lever, rear sight, and other components *decades* before they started thinking about casting gas blocks.
As for "the stamped reciever", that's not really a thing. Yes - the Chinese produced *a handful* of Type 56 Carbines with stamped recievers, but they are extraordinarily rare and are absolutely not representative of Chinese production. 99.9999% of the 10 million Chinese SKS patterns ever produced have milled receivers, whether they were made in 1956 or 1994.
Pressed and pinned barrels were absolutely a significant and distinctly Chinese feature, but they were not adopted by all factories. State Arsenal 296 was making threaded barrel interface Type 56 Carbines as late as 1981.
Good info, thanks. I’ve only had this SKS for about 40 days. Never had one before that so still sorting it out. The cast gas block threw me off, hadn’t considered that Bricklee might have replaced it. I can identify most of the changes Bricklee made. What I called the firing pin block is what you call the retainer, I think. The part the firing pin is inside of that you do the shake test with. It has serial #K8092. Bricklee probably put this in but no idea where they got it.
And I was aware of short or long lugs on Chinese or Russian versions…good to know, thanks again.
Thanks, you helped me figure mine out! :))
Thank you for your videos, and also thanks for your service.
" All the Way" Airborne Tankers "Thunder Bolts".
I think I have an early 1957 "?" all matching numbers, 6 digit serial number 132XXX "Ghost" Sino-Soviet type. It does not have any other Arsenal stamps. It has the Import markings (I.O.inc. Monroe NC./ M56 7.62x39mm China), this is laser engraved on the right side of the barrel below the gas tube. It has Russian inspection stamp marks inside. The receiver plate cover has Russian star with 1951 'r' no serial number on cover. Barrel is not chrome lined with blade bayonet. I purchased the rifle in 2013, in Mustang Oklahoma. Is there any way to tell if this a real Ghost gun?
Back at you Airborne, ATW.
I'm a little confused by the description of your rifle. The serial number is correct for a 1957, as you state. The receiver cover you are describing is not correct - that's definitely a Tula/Soviet made part. There is theoretically a possibility that this was a Russian spare part which was actually brought into China for use in the early builds, although I think it's more likely that it just got swapped at some point in service.
An original ghost should be chrome lined as well, but for that matter, essentially all Chinese SKS patterns should be. Sometimes the milky chrome can be hard to visually identify, although of course I'll trust your own discretion there.
You are welcome to send pictures of the rifle to "triangletwentysix@gmail.com", I'd be happy to offer you a more informed opinion based on visual inspection.
As a Marine, I did not know we could date our rifles…
Just found out they got non-toxic crayons at that!!
LOL
Love this. Helped me to determine that I have a 72 rifle. However, I can't make out the number in the triangle. It's not 26 though.
When are we going to see the ghost gun video? Really enjoyed watching all your videos. Very interested to hear all your thoughts on the first years Chinese production rifles without the triangle 26 markings.
Hopefully soon. I'm steering away from offering hard timelines (because I literally always fail to meet them), but I can say that the Ghost video is a high priority for me and technically "in progress". I doubt it will be my next video, but I would guess it will be in the next three.
you are the man , my sks is a sporter. 89xxxxxx
Immediately get a long dream of the *Chinese
Norinco SKS
Paratrooper
The number of the Semi-Auto Rifle is 25003601. Could you tell me the year it was produced, Mr. Trouble? Before this group of numbers there is a rectangle inside a group of numbers: 0136, followed by three Chinese: "Type five and six", looking forward to your authoritative answer, thank you very much 🙏
The markings you describe indicate that your rifle was the 3,601st Type 56 Carbine (military) produced at Factory 0136 (Chenggu, China) in 1980!
Thank you very much for your answer. Today I am so happy, because I really want to get a Chinese type 56 SKS after watching your program. I wanted to see a Mosin Nagant that day, but it has already been sold, but it is almost new and has the correct number and comes with Red Star 4*24 sniper mirror. Thank you for bringing me good luck. I think this is the last batch of Chinese SKS legally imported.
My Chinese SKS is weird and I’ve only been able to find one pic of one that looks similar.
-It doesn’t have the triangle marking or any triangle marking whatsoever.
-It has no Chinese lettering at all.
-It has no box or box symbol at all.
All it says on the left side is:
CAI ST ALB VT
NORINCO CHINA 7.62x39
With the serial number 9016xxx on the top right (slightly above where the VT is).
(All numbers are matching as well)