[Paul I]

I have 2 Russian SKS .A 1954r ,this has the # 1 on the front sight
and 7.62 x39 stampings by the bayonet , but the other a 1950r has no marking on the barral that I see at this time. Is normal or did the marking get covered up with the finish/blueing?

Paul I

 

[Klaus]

The 7.62x39 stamp was probably put on by the importer. I am sure the other SKS has a similar stamp elsewhere on the barrel or chamber. The 1 means that the rifle was rated as having high accuracy by the factory under a government test. I do not know the test criteria.

 

[powerkicker]

Thats good info Klaus....i've got me one of those "1" marked Russians too!I just never knew what it meant before now.I always thought it odd that it would group S&B ball into 2 inches at 100 yards on a good day.