Is the SKS still relevant?

This video critically evaluates seven firearms that the presenter believes are poor purchasing decisions in the current market, primarily due to better, more cost-effective alternatives. The presenter, an experienced firearms instructor, argues that many buyers are swayed by hype rather than practical utility or value. He contrasts high-priced, niche firearms with more accessible and capable options, emphasizing the importance of investing in ammunition and training over expensive, underutilized platforms.

This video features an examination and initial firing of a never-fired 1954 Russian Tula SKS. The presenter highlights the rifle's pristine, all-matching serial number condition, original box, and paperwork. Technical specifications like barrel length, overall length, and weight are discussed, along with the gas-operated semi-automatic action. The video demonstrates the process of loading the SKS using stripper clips for the first time and concludes with the rifle successfully firing its first rounds.

This guide details how to assess the reliability and functionality of Chinese AK-style rifles, drawing on expert insights from Hickok45. It covers visual inspection, function checks, live-fire testing against various targets, and observation of cycling action. The video debunks the myth that Chinese AKs are junk, highlighting their robust construction and consistent performance, often comparable to more expensive alternatives.

Iraqveteran8888 presents a 'Top 5 Guns to Keep After a Divorce' list, focusing on firearms with personal significance and practical utility. The selections range from historical rifles like the Persian Mauser and SKS to modern firearms such as the Ruger 10/22 Charger, Benelli Super Black Eagle, and a custom Ruger M77 Mark II. The video emphasizes that the choices are driven by experience, emotional connection, and the inherent value of the firearm beyond monetary worth, with a special mention of the Barrett M107 as a wildcard.

This video from Line 45 highlights seven older military firearms that offer significant value for preppers, often surpassing newer, more expensive options. Instructor Ted emphasizes practical utility over nostalgia, detailing the strengths of each firearm for preparedness scenarios, including home defense, rural security, and long-term reliability. The selection focuses on compact size, manageable recoil, proven durability, and effective ballistics for various distances.

This video reviews ten dirt-cheap military surplus rifles that are still available for purchase, often at prices lower than entry-level modern firearms. It highlights the SKS, M1 Garand, Schmidt-Rubin K31, Lee-Enfield, Mosin-Nagant, Swedish Mauser M96, Arisaka Type 99, and 1903 Springfield, discussing their historical significance, operational characteristics, common calibers, and current market value. The presenter advises on which models are worth buying and which to avoid, emphasizing factors like ammunition availability and cost.

This video provides a head-to-head accuracy test between the Ruger 10/22 and the Marlin Model 60, both chambered in .22 LR. The host, an experienced shooter, details the test methodology, including ammunition types and a consistent 25-yard range. The comparison highlights key features of each rifle, such as magazine capacity and aftermarket availability, concluding with a visual presentation of the shot groups.

This video details a comprehensive ballistics gel test for various .38 Special loads fired from a Smith & Wesson 642 snub-nose revolver. The expert instructor analyzes bullet expansion, penetration, and wound channels, offering critical insights into ammunition performance for self-defense. Key takeaways include the importance of bullet design for reliable expansion in short barrels and safety considerations for handloading .38 Special ammunition.

This guide details a head-to-head ballistic gel test comparing 9mm Luger +P and .40 S&W ammunition, as demonstrated by an experienced firearms reviewer. The test involved firing specific loads through denim barriers into gel blocks, measuring velocity and penetration, and analyzing recovered projectiles. The .40 S&W HST showed more dramatic expansion, while the 9mm +P achieved deeper penetration. The comparison highlights trade-offs between terminal performance, capacity, and recoil in compact firearms.

This video demonstrates the initial live fire of a .50 Beowulf AR-15 platform rifle, featuring a side-charging upper receiver and a Vortex red dot optic. The host, identified as a firearms enthusiast and content creator, showcases the loading process, firing, and the significant impact of the large caliber rounds on steel targets at an outdoor range. The demonstration highlights proficient firearm handling and range safety awareness.