SKS Chinese Norinco Proper Stamping: How to Identify Authentic Markings & Factory Codes

May 23, 2025 Admin

Table of Contents

Introduction

SKS Chinese Norinco Proper rifle is a legendary firearm among collectors and shootingenthusiasts. One of the most crucial aspects of identifying an authentic Norinco SKS is understanding its proper stamping and markings. These stamps reveal the origin, manufacturing details, and authenticity of the rifle.

If you own an SKS or plan to buy one, recognizing these proper stampings is essential to ensure you get a genuine and valuable piece. This detailed guide will cover everything about SKS Chinese Norinco proper stamping, its history and how to identify real markings.

Let’s dive into the details and unlock the secrets behind these stampings!

H2: What is the SKS Chinese Norinco?

The SKS (Samozaryadny Karabin Simonova) is a semi automatic rifle originally designed in 1945 by the Soviet Union. China later began producing its own version, commonly known as the Norinco SKS.

H3: Why is Norinco Important?

Norinco (China North Industries Corporation) is the main manufacturer of the SKS rifles in China. These rifles were widely produced and exported, making them some of the most common SKS variants worldwide.

However, due to variations in production and different manufacturing plants, collectors focus on proper stamping and markings to determine the origin and authenticity of their SKS rifles.

H2: Understanding SKS Chinese Norinco Proper Stamping

The stamping on an SKS Chinese Norinco rifle includes key details such as:

Factory Code (Triangle Markings)
Serial Numbers
Chinese Characters & Symbols
Importer Markings
Military & Commercial Markings

Each of these plays a role in identifying the rifle’s history, manufacturer, and authenticity.

H2: How to Identify SKS Chinese Norinco Proper Stamping?

H3: 1. Factory Codes & Triangle Markings

One of the most recognizable SKS Chinese Norinco markings is the triangle factory code. These triangles contain numbers or symbols inside them, representing different manufacturing plants.

Some of the most common factory codes include:

Triangle 26 – Most common, linked to Jianshe Arsenal
Triangle 636, 416, 0138 – Less common but still authentic
Other Factory Codes – Varying numbers representing different arsenals

Where to Find It?

Look on the left side of the receiver near the chamber. The triangle marking with numbers is a strong indicator of the rifle’s factory origin.

H3: 2. Serial Numbers & Dating an SKS Norinco

Chinese SKS rifles do not have a fixed serial number system. However, collectors use a simple method to estimate the rifle’s production year.

How to Date an SKS Norinco?

1️⃣ Find the serial number next to the triangle factory marking.
2️⃣ Subtract the first two digits from 56 (e.g. 23XXXXXX → 56 – 23 = 1979).
3️⃣ This gives an approximate manufacturing year.

Note: This method mainly applies to SKS rifles from Factory 26. Other factories may have different numbering systems.

H3: 3. Chinese Characters & Military Markings

Some SKS Norinco rifles have Chinese characters stamped on them, often translating to “Type 56.” These markings confirm the rifle’s military or civilian use.

Common Stamps Include:

“56 式” (Type 56) – Military SKS designation
Other Characters – Indicating specific factory or batch details

After production, many Chinese SKS rifles were exported, mainly to the U.S. Import laws required additional stampings for commercial sales.

H3: 1. U.S. Importer Markings

When Norinco exported SKS rifles to the U.S. importers added their own markings.

Common U.S. importers include:

“KSI, Pomona, CA” – Common in late 1980s imports
“PolyTech, ATL GA” – Known for higher-quality SKS imports
“N.A. CO RIDGFIELD NJ” – Another common importer

These markings are typically found on the barrel or receiver and help track the rifle’s importation history.

H3: 2. Differences Between Military & Commercial SKS

A true military SKS usually lacks import markings and has proper factory stampings. Commercial models may have:

Aftermarket parts (e.g., plastic stocks)
Additional safety modifications
Markings from import companies

H2: Fake & Re-stamped SKS Chinese Norinco Rifles

Because of the high demand for authentic SKS rifles, some have fake stampings or re-stamped markings to increase value.

H3: How to Spot a Fake or Re-stamped SKS?

Check the Engraving Depth – Genuine stamps are deep and uniform. Fake ones are often shallow or uneven.
Look for Mismatched Parts – Original rifles have matching serials on the receiver, bolt and trigger guard.
Factory Code Location – If a triangle marking is missing or in the wrong place, be cautious.
Importer Over-Stamps – Some rifles were re-marked by dealers, affecting authenticity.

H2: Collector’s Guide – How to Buy an Authentic SKS Chinese Norinco

If you’re buying an SKS Norinco, follow these steps to ensure authenticity:

1️⃣ Examine the Stamping – Look for triangle factory codes, serial numbers and Chinese characters.
2️⃣ Check Serial Number Consistency – All major parts should match.
3️⃣ Avoid Re-stamped or Fake Markings – If the stamping looks too fresh, question its authenticity.
4️⃣ Research the Importer – Some import marks are more desirable for collectors.
5️⃣ Buy from Reputable Dealers – Avoid sketchy online listings with vague details.

Conclusion

Understanding SKS Chinese Norinco proper stamping is essential for collectors and firearm enthusiasts. Factory codes, serial numbers, Chinese characters and importer markings all play a role in identifying an authentic Norinco SKS.

By using this guide, you can confidently assess any SKS rifle, ensuring its authenticity and value. Whether you’re a collector, shooter or history buff, owning a properly stamped SKS is a great addition to any firearm collection!

Did you find this guide helpful? Share it with fellow SKS enthusiasts!

FAQs on SKS Chinese Norinco Proper Stamping

Q1: What does the triangle marking on my SKS mean?

The triangle code represents the factory where the rifle was made. For example, “26” is linked to Jianshe Arsenal.

Q2: Can I determine the year of my SKS Norinco from the serial number?

Yes! If it’s a Factory 26 SKS, subtract the first two digits from 56 to estimate the year.

Q3: Are SKS Norinco rifles military-grade?

Some are military surplus, while others were made for commercial export. Military versions often lack import stamps.

Q4: How can I tell if my SKS is authentic?

Look for deep, clean factory stampings, matching serial numbers and correct factory codes to verify authenticity.

Q5: Where should I buy an SKS Norinco?

Buy from reputable gun shops, licensed dealers or known collectors to avoid fake or re-stamped rifles.