According to Weebly's Chinese SKS Guide, the serial number on this rifle represents an approximate production date of 1966. The plain black stock on this gun is most likely a South Vietnamese (Viet Cong) replacement, and it is believed to be a U.S. G.I. Vietnam War bring-back (no import markings). However, no "bring-back" paperwork was found. This gun is receiver marked "26" in a triangle (Factory 26 = Jianshe Arsenal). SPECS: Wood stock & handguard with dull black paint overcoat, 20.5" barrel, retractable spike bayonet, adjustable folding rear battle sight, hooded front post sight, sling rings and fixed 10-round internal stripper clip fed magazine. CONDITION: This gun is showing age & wear but still retains an excellent sharp/ clean bore and appears to be in good working order. HISTORY: The SKS is a semi-automatic carbine chambered for the 7.62×39mm round designed in 1943 by Sergei Gavrilovich Simonov. It was first produced in the Soviet Union but later widely exported and manufactured by various nations. The Chinese Type 56 SKS was introduced in 1956 and is still made today. Numerous minor tweaks were made to the Type 56 from the original Russian SKS including lack of milling on the bolt carrier, partially or fully stamped (as opposed to milled) receivers and differing types of thumb rest on the take-down lever. The Chinese continually revised the SKS manufacturing process so variations can be seen even between two examples from the same factory. PLEASE NOTE - This SKS with a "fixed magazine" and no "Tactical Features" is NOT on the Illinois Banned Weapons List. FREE SHIPPING & NO PROCESSING FEES.