One option to consider is a paratrooper model. We have a Russian SKS, a normal Norinco and a Norinco Paratrooper and of the three, I like the feel of the paratrooper much more. It feels a bit better balanced than the full size ones and feels a lot more like my AKs in handling.
If you can find an early Russian SKS, it will have the advantage of already having a firing pin spring. That can be added to any SKS, but the early Russian ones were delivered with it.
There are a lot of different configurations between the Yugos, Norincos and others. I've never shot any but the three I have, but the Yugo with the grenade launcher looks off balance.
When you get one, check out the TechSights. I run them on one of my Norincos and will put them on the other Norinco as well because they make a huge difference. The increase the sight radius significantly
All in all, the SKS is a great rifle. When you get one, buy some stripper clips. Once you get used to using stripper clips, you come to really like them.
If you can find an early Russian SKS, it will have the advantage of already having a firing pin spring. That can be added to any SKS, but the early Russian ones were delivered with it.
There are a lot of different configurations between the Yugos, Norincos and others. I've never shot any but the three I have, but the Yugo with the grenade launcher looks off balance.
When you get one, check out the TechSights. I run them on one of my Norincos and will put them on the other Norinco as well because they make a huge difference. The increase the sight radius significantly
All in all, the SKS is a great rifle. When you get one, buy some stripper clips. Once you get used to using stripper clips, you come to really like them.