Russian SKS Tula 1950 Laminate Stock 7.62×39 20″ Excellent Conditions

Our Grading Tier:

Excellent: 80–95% finish, solid wood with minor wear, very good to excellent bore. Non-critical hairline cracks acceptable. Arsenal repairs or spliced wood common on some models (Russian, Yugoslav or Finnish rifles). About as good as surplus gets.
Very Good: 60–80% finish, honest wear, good to very good bore. Solid serviceable condition with normal handling marks.
Good: 40–60% finish, moderate wear/repairs, fair to good bore. Functional rifle with visible service history.
Fair: Less than 40% finish, heavy wear or damage, worn bore. Project gun or parts donor.

Description:

We are pleased to offer an exceptionally early example of the Soviet SKS: a 1950-dated Russian SKS manufactured at the Tula Arsenal, in excellent overall condition with all matching serial numbers. This rifle is a significant find for collectors, as 1950 represents only the second year of full-scale SKS production. It comes complete with a matching laminate stock, a canvas sling, and a cleaning kit stored in the stock.

Historical Background
The SKS was officially adopted by the Soviet Union in 1949, and production began at the Tula Arsenal that same year. The 1950 production year falls within the very first years of manufacture, a period when Soviet engineers were still refining the design and production methods. Early Tula SKS rifles are prized for their superior fit, finish, and attention to detail, as they were built before the simplifications that came with later mass production. This rifle represents the dawn of the SKS era, a time when the Soviet Union was equipping its post-war army with a modern semi-automatic rifle that would serve until the widespread adoption of the AK-47.

Condition and Features
This rifle is in excellent overall condition. The metal retains strong original bluing with crisp Tula markings, the 1950 date, and Soviet proof stamps on the receiver, bolt, carrier, and other components. The bore is bright with sharp, chrome-lined rifling, a testament to proper Soviet maintenance and the longevity of the SKS design. The action cycles smoothly, and the trigger is crisp. The integral folding bayonet is intact and functions correctly. The cleaning rod is present.

All Matching Numbers Including Laminate Stock
The rifle remains all matching on its primary components, including the receiver, bolt, bolt carrier, trigger group, magazine, and stock. The serial number is consistent across all these parts, confirming the rifle’s integrity and careful preservation. The laminate stock is original and matching, which is a highly desirable feature. Laminate stocks were introduced to improve strength and resistance to warping in humid climates, and they are sought after by collectors for their distinctive layered appearance and durability. This stock is in excellent condition, with a well-preserved finish and minimal handling wear.

Accessories
The rifle comes with a canvas sling, a correct period accessory for carry. It also includes a cleaning kit stored in the buttstock, complete with the standard cleaning tools for maintaining the bore and action. These accessories add practical value and completeness to the package.

Collector Appeal
For the collector of Soviet military arms, Cold War semi-automatic rifles, or SKS enthusiasts, this 1950 Tula example offers a premier opportunity. Its exceptionally early production date, all-matching numbers including the laminate stock, excellent condition, and included accessories make it a standout piece in any collection. It is equally suitable for display, research, or as a reliable and accurate shooter. This is a tangible piece of early Cold War history, ready for the range or the collection.

Important Notice Regarding Military Surplus Firearms:

Historical Artifacts: These rifles are typically 50–100+ years old and have served through wars, training, and storage. They are collectible historical items, not new commercial firearms.
Honest Wear Expected: Minor dings, scratches, handling marks, and edge wear are normal and do not affect grading.
Wood Cracks: Hairline cracks in non-critical areas (e.g., forend, buttstock sides) are common in aged wood and do not downgrade a rifle unless they affect structural integrity. Any critical cracks will be noted.
Non-Matching Numbers: Many surplus rifles have non-matching bolts, magazines, or parts. This is common and does not necessarily affect function or value. Matching numbers will always be noted if present.
Bore Condition: Bore condition is graded separately (Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair). A “Good” bore on a 1940s rifle is often perfectly acceptable and shootable.
Cosmoline: Rifles stored in cosmoline may require thorough cleaning before use. Cosmoline preservation is a bonus, not a guarantee of a “new” rifle.

By purchasing, you acknowledge that you are buying a historical collectible surplus firearm and accept the characteristics associated with its age and service history. Please read through the descriptions and pictures carefully for details. We photograph and describe each rifle honestly. If you have any questions about a specific listing, please contact us before purchasing.