Rifleman Q&A: An Albanian SKS?

Although the Albanian SKS is, at its heart, a pretty straightforward SKS rifle, it does have some interesting features that set it apart.

by
posted on July 22, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Albaniansks

Q. I’m a collector of military rifles and keep a close eye on the Internet for unique deals. I was looking at Aim Surplus’ website, aimsurplus.com, and noticed it had an SKS variant of which I am totally unfamiliar—an Albanian SKS. Could you tell me anything about it?

rifle top silver bolt brown wood black metal gun parts

A. The Albanian SKS is a rather rare variant of the SKS rifle. Very little is known about its background, as compared to other versions. Although the Albanian SKS is, at its heart, a pretty straightforward SKS rifle, it does have some interesting features that set it apart.

wood number stamping metal sling swivel gun parts

The most obvious visual difference is the Albanian’s full-length wooden upper handguard. Unlike other SKS rifles, this handguard extends the full length of the gas tube. The profile of the rifle also reveals an oddly shaped magazine body extending below the rifle. Unlike the gentle upward sweep of other SKS magazine bodies, this one has an abrupt, upward angle on its forward face.

A closer look at the rifle reveals three more unique features. One is the bolt carrier handle, which is more like that of an AK-47 than other SKS rifles. Another is dual storage compartment doors, rather than one—presumably for both the cleaning kit and an oiler bottle. And the final is a rear sling swivel mounted on the left side of the stock; a feature nice for lefties but quite unpleasant for a right-hand cheek weld.

wooden buttstock rifle black metal plate rear butt gun parts

This variant of the Simonov design, offered by Aim Surplus, would represent an interesting addition to any SKS collection.

—Michael O. Humphries


This “Questions & Answers” was featured in the October 2004 issue of American Rifleman. At time of publication, "Questions & Answers" was compiled by Staff, Ballistics Editor William C. Davis, Jr., and Contributing Editors: David Andrews, Hugh C. Birnbaum, Bruce N. Canfield, O. Reid Coffield, Charles Q. Cutshaw, Charles M. Fagg, Angus Laidlaw, Evan P. Marshall, Charles E. Petty, Robert B. Pomeranz, O.D., Jon R. Sundra, Jim Supica, A.W.F. Taylerson, John M. Taylor and John Treakle.

To subscribe to the magazine, visit NRA membership page here and select American Rifleman as your member magazine.

Latest

Sellmark Ranch Entrance
Sellmark Ranch Entrance

Sellmark Ranch Opens, Offers Hunting & Shooting Opportunities To The Public

Sellmark Corporation, the parent company of several notable firearm industry brands, opened its 6,800-acre ranch to the public, which provides dedicated hunts, mile-long shooting ranges and more.

CZ Recalls All-American Trap Combo Shotguns

CZ-USA has identified a manufacturing defect affecting the barrel of certain CZ All-American Trap Combo shotguns.

I Have This Old Gun: Japanese Type 94 Pistol

Among the pantheon of World War II military sidearms, the Japanese Type 94 stands out for a number of undesirable reasons. Aside from its ungainly look, many regard it as one of the most dangerous firearms ever made.

New For 2025: GForce Arms 12Hammer

The latest option in the diverse lineup of GForce Arms shotguns is the 12Hammer, an AR-style platform chambered for 12-ga. shotshells that feeds from detachable box magazines.

Tips & Techniques: DIY Fire Bluing

Is there anything prettier than fire bluing? This bright, “peacock” blue color is one of the world’s oldest firearm finishes and can be found on guns dating back as early as the 16th century and is still used on some of today’s high-end custom arms.

Rifleman Q&A: Eddystone Bayonets

"I recently started collecting World War I U.S. military firearms. I want to obtain a Model 1917 rifle made by each contractor—Winchester, Remington and Eddystone—along with bayonets for each. However, I can only locate bayonets made by Winchester and Remington. Why are bayonets made by Eddystone so hard to find?"

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.