Russian SKS Tula 1955 Arctic Birch 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 a fine example of a late Cold War Soviet semi-automatic carbine: a 1955-dated Russian SKS manufactured at the Tula Arsenal, in excellent overall condition with all matching serial numbers. This rifle features a distinctive unmarked stock that bears only the Tula star, a laminate upper handguard, and comes complete with a cleaning kit stored in the stock.

Historical Background
The SKS was adopted by the Soviet Union in 1949 and served as the Red Army’s standard semi-automatic infantry rifle until the AK-47 became ubiquitous. The Tula Arsenal was one of the two primary Soviet producers, alongside Izhevsk. Tula rifles are particularly prized by collectors for their excellent fit, finish, and attention to detail. The 1955 production year falls in the mature period of SKS manufacture, when production methods had been refined and quality control was at its peak. Rifles from this era are known for their deep bluing, smooth actions, and reliable chrome-lined barrels. By 1955, the SKS was nearing the end of its front-line service life as the AK-47 became the standard issue rifle, but examples from this period remain some of the best-made SKS rifles ever produced.

Condition and Features
This rifle is in excellent overall condition. The metal retains strong original bluing with crisp Tula markings, the 1955 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
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. This level of originality is a key indicator of collector value.

Unmarked Stock with Tula Star
The rifle is fitted with a stock that is largely unmarked, bearing only the Tula star. This is an uncommon and desirable variation. Most military-issue SKS stocks carry a serial number, inspection stamps, and other cartouches. The absence of these markings may indicate a replacement stock that was fitted during arsenal refurbishment without being renumbered, or it could simply be an example that left the factory with minimal stock markings. Regardless of the reason, the unmarked stock is a point of interest for collectors who appreciate variations. The stock is solid and well-preserved, with only minimal handling wear.

Laminate Upper Handguard
The rifle features a laminate upper handguard, which is correct and consistent with later SKS production. Laminate components were introduced to improve strength and resistance to warping, and they are characteristic of post-war Soviet manufacturing. The handguard is in excellent condition and matches the overall quality of the rifle.

Cleaning Kit in Stock
The rifle includes a cleaning kit stored in the buttstock, complete with the standard cleaning tools for maintaining the bore and action. This is a desirable accessory that adds 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 1955 Tula example offers a solid opportunity. Its excellent condition, all-matching numbers, unusual unmarked stock, laminate upper handguard, and included cleaning kit make it a well-rounded and historically interesting piece. It is equally suitable for display, research, or as a reliable and accurate shooter. This is a tangible piece of 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.