[doc540]

It's not rare, so it's not now nor will it be highly valuable as a "collectible".

BUT, if you like it "as is" and want to keep it totally original in pristine condition, then it's valuable TO YOU.

I wouldn't suggest selling it unless you can get someone to pay $500+ for it.

With that kind of money, you can buy or build just about any SKS you want (except for the rarest Russian collectibles).

Watch gunbroker.com and every now and then someone will offer for sale a new SKS "in the box/crate". They've been bringing around $400.

You can always mod it and later put it back in original condition. Just don't destroy or throw anything away.

Have fun and enjoy it no matter what you choose to do with it.

 

[doc540]

It's good that you're doing your homework. LOT of great information available from many sources, not the least of which is this forum.

Here's another good one:
http://www.sksboards.com/smf/index.php

 

[doc540]

I totally disagree with the notion that the SKS will never be collectible.

There was a time when they thought that about surplus German K98k rifles.

It may not be collectible in our lifetime but your children will think otherwise. Especially after the winds of "Change" come uppon us.

Keep it original and keep it for yourself I say.

Ok, I can agree with that.

Never is a long time.