This Type 56 SKS, serial 8158329, was made around 1963 at Chinese Factory 26 and is chambered in 7.62x39mm with a 20.5-inch round barrel. All serial numbers match. The bore is bright and the rifling sharp. An import mark sits on the right side of the receiver; on the left an aftermarket scope mount has been fitted. The cleaning rod and bayonet are gone. The stock shows little wear and is rated very good, and the action cycles smoothly.

Factory 26 was the main source of Chinese Type 56 rifles, and an early 1960s gun like this keeps the older military-production details collectors look for. For a Texas buyer the scope mount is the practical angle: with glass on it, a 7.62x39 SKS is a sensible brush rifle for North Zone whitetails during the November 7 to January 3 general season, and the cartridge is centerfire, which satisfies the rule against rimfire on deer. The 20.5-inch barrel keeps it short enough for a blind or a truck rack.

Key features

• 7.62x39mm, 20.5-inch barrel, circa 1963
• Factory 26 production, serial 8158329
• All numbers matching, bright bore
• Aftermarket scope mount on left receiver
• Cleaning rod and bayonet removed

Delivery is to the licensed Texas dealer of your choice, who runs the NICS check; no permit, no waiting period, and buyers may be 18.