A Chinese Type 56 SKS from Factory 0223, serial 025185, a semi-automatic rifle in 7.62x39mm with a 20.5-inch round barrel. The supplier dates it to the 1970s or 1980s. Serial numbers match throughout. The bore is bright with strong rifling, the action cycles smoothly and works as it should, and wear is limited to minimal handling and storage marks, for an overall very good grade. Factory 0223 output turns up less often than that of other Chinese arsenals, which gives this rifle extra appeal to collectors of military arms.

Beyond the collector side, 7.62x39mm is a centerfire cartridge above .22 caliber, so loaded with expanding bullets it meets New Mexico's big-game rule, and the Department of Wildlife schedules most rifle deer and elk hunts between October and December by hunt code. Full metal jacket surplus loads are not legal for big game in the state, so choose soft-point or similar hunting ammunition if this SKS goes afield.

Key features

• 7.62x39mm semi-automatic, 20.5-inch round barrel
• Factory 0223 production, serial 025185
• Matching serial numbers throughout
• Bright bore with strong rifling
• Overall very good, minimal handling wear

The rifle ships to the New Mexico FFL dealer you select, and you pick it up there after the NICS check and the seven-day state wait.