[marktwain]

The SKS is the East Block equivalent of the Garand. Cheap, accurate and effective out to 350 meters or so. It is an excellent militia arm. The only thing that I don't like about them is the open sights, but Lyman, I believe, makes an aftermarket peep that takes the place of the open rear sight.

[ExGeeEye]

effective out to 350 meters or so

Surprised me :)

OTOH I never tried it at that range.

I don't mind the sights, but if I were to want to use it at a distance, I'd want a scope.

When serving, I was routinely able to score between 33 and 38 with my -16 (which meant that I kept two marksmanship medals in my "Class 'A' Stuff" box, so I could wear whichever was my current qual) but wished could have a scope for the beast.