I Have Joined the SKS Club *Field Report*

[Josh Smith]

Hello,

I've figured out how to field strip my SKS just fine.

However, it would seem logical that the gas tube would need serviced if corrosive ammo is being shot, and the same with the trigger group.

How do I get to these to clean them?

Thanks,

Josh <><

[465guy]

I love the way the SKS shoots. I'd like to know hwo to remove the gas tube as well.

[sloughfoot]

After removing the receiver cover, operating handle, and bolt carrier and bolt, rotate the gas cylinder lock to its uppermost position and lift the rear of the handguard to remove the gas cylinder tube and the gas piston. The tube can be upended and the piston will slide out.

For the trigger group; Depress the catch located behind the loop of the trigger guard and pull the trigger group down and out of the rifle. The safety must be in the safe position before the catch can be depressed.

From Army TC 9-56.... I hope this helps.

[karlsgunbunker]

Originally Posted by sloughfoot

After removing the receiver cover, operating handle, and bolt carrier and bolt, rotate the gas cylinder lock to its uppermost position and lift the rear of the handguard to remove the gas cylinder tube and the gas piston. The tube can be upended and the piston will slide out.

For the trigger group; Depress the catch located behind the loop of the trigger guard and pull the trigger group down and out of the rifle. The safety must be in the safe position before the catch can be depressed.

From Army TC 9-56.... I hope this helps.

These steps are sometimes easier said than done.
I had a chicom that required a large brass pin and hammer to remove the trigger group.
A 12ga shotgun swab will clean the gas tube.
Do not leave any excess oil in the gas tube it should be very dry when reassembled or it will collect carbon.
Beware of the operating rod and spring when removing the gas tube.
It will shoot across the room like a scared rabbit.
Wrapping a towel loosely around the area will help contain the op-rod and spring. You will have to wiggly the gas tube while pulling up on it with some rifles with a tighter fitting gas tube.

[Josh Smith]

Thanks folks. Got 'er.

Now, I really screwed up on the copy'n'paste. This was supposed to be a field report... dangit! :embarrassed:

Following in a moment...

[Josh Smith]

I got an SKS today...


Here's the SKS. It looked good on the outside, just a little surface rust. A couple dry patches revealed a bore that shined better than most I've seen, on any gun.

I loaded it up with the ammo I found, something called Hotshot that comes in commercial boxes packaged in "SPAM" cans of 700. It weighs 123 grains and is made in Romania. The package advertises that it's non-corrosive.

I immediately tested it. Though it's FMJ, it blew up a water filled gallon jug in an impressive manner from 50 yards. I'm beginning to think there's something to bullets which tumble...

After I got done shooting it, I brought it inside and cleaned it. Take down was extremely simple. I'd never messed with one before and it took me all of five minutes to field strip it.

I cleaned it up, and gave it a go again.


50 yards, standing, unsupported... 6/10.

I have to mention here that the sights are a lot like a Mosin's, only a bit finer. Regardless, this gun just fits me. I don't have to work to see the sights.


Here's the second string of 10, standing, unsupported. 7/10.

I do have to admit to having a strange trigger preference. This trigger is long and mushy, and it's a lot like the slug guns I grew up shooting. That and the fit would explain the groups.

I plan to enjoy this immensely. Stripper clips add to the fun!

Josh <><

[Fenway]

Nice.. I enjoy shooting the SKS as well. Much more fun than an ak in 7.62 (for me anyway)

[Josh Smith]

Thanks again folks.

I'm reading that it may possibly be illegal to have the bayonet on this carbine, even though it came with it.

It's Chinese with a serial number just slightly over 9,000,000.

Any help?

Thanks,

Josh <><

[jontheturboguy]

Josh:

IIRC if it was imported with the bayonet, then its legal.

Removing the bayonet would make it illegal. Section 922? I think?

[Josh Smith]

I can't make heads or tails out of the federal laws. Indiana code is easy to understand, but that federal stuff makes my head spin.

I thought, though, that removing parts would only make it illegal if it were a C&R carbine, which the Chinese version is not.

Thanks,

Josh <><