I don't know guys,. the SKS is a pretty decent rifle.. I've 2 at the moment and prefer them over the AK for a hjouse gun..after the 870 of course.. I see quite a few in the woods and the round is about what a 30-30 provides in the light bullet class. The usually shoot quite well and are very reliable. Other than a few slapped together during the Chinese flood.. It's a lot better rifle for any hunting than an M1 carbine.. I long ago learned to not laugh at a mans gun. If it is all he can afford it is usually the case that he knows how to use it.