How many different types of SKS Carbines utilize AK magazines?
The Chinese SKS‑D was the “pre-ban” version that has a standard length barrel, a bayonet lug and attached spike bayonet, and a standard stock (with a steel filler plate in front of the magazine well). Actually, there is no official rifle as an SKS‑D. Since the SKS‑D has no specific markings on the receiver, dealers coined this term in order to differentiate these rifles from the fixed magazine ones. Some people continue to use the term “SKS‑D” to refer to any SKS that uses an AK magazine. The Chinese SKS‑M is the “post-ban” version, typically with a shortened ‘Paratrooper’ barrel and without a bayonet lug. The SKS‑M was equipped with either a thumbhole style stock or a fancy Monte Carlo style stock. These will usually have either “SKS Sporter”, “SKS M”, “SKS NR”, or “MC 5D” stamped on the side of the receiver. It has been reported that the following variations exist: 1. Midwest Ordnance first conversion. This is the one that the Chinese came over and looked at then went back and made t