Arguably one of China's best efforts, the late M21 marked Type-56 SKS is a sight to behold. It is built with a combination of mid to late production features. The metal surfaces show evidence of skillful machining and polishing. The final metal finish is very deep and lustrous, almost black. Stocks are fitted with perfection, and the shellac is smooth and evenly applied.
Though the date of manufacture is not documented, the late M21 is nearly identical in both features and finish to the 23 and 24 million series Jianshe Factory /26\ carbines (1979, 1980). Both the Jianshe Arsenal and M21 rifles were equipped with a plastic handguard on the gas tube. These observation might suggest that M21 production took place in the late 1970's to early 1980's.
Some features to note:
1. Spike bayonet
2. Short lug threaded barrel
3. Late style gas block with the upper squared-off leading edge
4. No bolt carrier lightening cut
5. Stamped trigger guard
6. Roman numeral III stamped rear sight leaf
7. Bottom rear sling swivel
8. Short trigger relief cut in the stock
9. Receiver cover latch relief cut in the stock
10. Number inside triangle cartouche on the left side stock under the receiver
11. And the signature ribbed-plastic handguard, commonly referred to as the French Tickler.
Again, there are no Chinese military documents to confirm, but it is also "internet" rumored that the lack of Chinese characters would lend to the plausibility of denial that the Chinese were arming countries and militias which were sympathetic to the communist cause. But honestly, how would they fool anyone? Looks just like a Chinese SKS to me, and to most everyone else in the world.
Enjoy some pictures, and thanks for looking.
Though the date of manufacture is not documented, the late M21 is nearly identical in both features and finish to the 23 and 24 million series Jianshe Factory /26\ carbines (1979, 1980). Both the Jianshe Arsenal and M21 rifles were equipped with a plastic handguard on the gas tube. These observation might suggest that M21 production took place in the late 1970's to early 1980's.
Some features to note:
1. Spike bayonet
2. Short lug threaded barrel
3. Late style gas block with the upper squared-off leading edge
4. No bolt carrier lightening cut
5. Stamped trigger guard
6. Roman numeral III stamped rear sight leaf
7. Bottom rear sling swivel
8. Short trigger relief cut in the stock
9. Receiver cover latch relief cut in the stock
10. Number inside triangle cartouche on the left side stock under the receiver
11. And the signature ribbed-plastic handguard, commonly referred to as the French Tickler.
Again, there are no Chinese military documents to confirm, but it is also "internet" rumored that the lack of Chinese characters would lend to the plausibility of denial that the Chinese were arming countries and militias which were sympathetic to the communist cause. But honestly, how would they fool anyone? Looks just like a Chinese SKS to me, and to most everyone else in the world.
Enjoy some pictures, and thanks for looking.















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