SKS barrel ins.

Dana Dean

Is their an easy way to check a used SKS for wear?Its hard to inspect the bar. throat.DD

Der Gebirgsjager

I don't know of any specific method for SKS rifles. There are probably armory tools that could measure the wear of various parts, but that's not the kind of thing most gunsmiths have. I suggest that you just follow the usual procedure for buying a used rifle by carefully inspecting all of the parts visually, by repeatedly cycling the action while observing to see if everything appears to be working. The bores of most SKS rifles are chromed to resist corrosion. I'd ask to field strip the rifle and then look through the bore from both ends. If you point the rifle at a window or light and look from the breech end you should be able to get a pretty good look at the throat; afterall, it's not that far into the barrel on a 7.62.39mm. Looking from the muzzle end you can get a pretty good look at the rifling and inspect the muzzle for dings. My primary concern would be to inspect the gas system for neglect and corrosion, as so many of these rifles have been fired extensively with corrosive ammo and not cleaned well. Again, this involves field stripping the weapon. If dummy rounds are available cycle some through the action to check the extraction/ejection. Generally, although not always, the overall appearance of the rifle is a pretty good indicatior of how well it was cared for. Some sellers will allow you to fire the rifle before committing to purchase.

Dana Dean

Thanks for taking time to help.DD