Make: Tula Arsenal (Russia)

Model: SKS

Serial Number: H05549

Year of Manufacture: 1953 (C&R Eligible)

Caliber: 7.62x39mm

Action Type: Semi-Automatic Rifle with Fixed 10-Round Internal Magazine

Markings: The top cover is marked with the Tula Arsenal star and arrow emblem and dated "1953". The matching serial number "H05549" appears clearly stamped on the trigger guard, receiver, magazine, rear of the top cover, bolt, and buttstock. Various arsenal proof marks and inspector stamps are visible throughout.

Barrel Length: 20.5”

Sights / Optics: Front Sight: Hooded post adjustable for windage and elevation. Rear Sight: Tangent rear sight adjustable for elevation, graduated from 100 to 1,000 meters.

Stock Configuration & Condition: Original hardwood stock with finger grooves, metal buttplate, and upper handguard. The stock shows typical handling marks and minor storage wear, but no significant damage. The finish appears original, rating in Very Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued Steel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains approximately 95% Plus of its original blued finish. Minor handling wear, edge thinning, and typical cycling marks are visible on the receiver, bolt carrier, and magazine body. The metal finish remains deep and consistent overall. All markings are crisp and clear, screw heads remain sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good to Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The bolt cycles smoothly, the trigger pull is crisp, and the safety operates correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is the original folding blade bayonet properly affixed beneath the barrel, and an original military canvas sling in Very Good condition. The cleaning kit compartment in the buttstock is empty; no cleaning kit is included.

Our Assessment: The SKS rifle, designed by Sergei Gavrilovich Simonov, is one of the most iconic and widely produced semi-automatic rifles of the Cold War era. Manufactured in 1953 by Russia’s renowned Tula Arsenal, this rifle is a desirable collectible variant known for its craftsmanship and historical value. The fact that the serial number "H05549" matches on every major component, including the receiver, bolt, top cover, magazine, trigger guard, and even the buttstock, greatly enhances its desirability and collector value.

With original finish, blade bayonet, and sling, this SKS remains authentic and historically accurate. The absence of a cleaning kit is minor and easily remedied if desired. Tula-marked SKS rifles, especially from the early 1950s like this one, are highly prized by collectors for their reliability, build quality, and historical importance.

For collectors, historians, and shooters alike, this 1953 Tula SKS represents an excellent opportunity to own a beautifully preserved piece of Cold War history.