SKS Rifle: Short vs Long?

Published on July 18, 2019
Duration: 9:08

This review compares the Norinco SKS Paratrooper (16.5-inch barrel) against a standard SKS (20.5-inch barrel) using empirical velocity data from a LabRadar. The standard barrel showed a ~100 fps velocity increase and a flatter trajectory, resulting in 7.5 inches less drop at 500 yards. While the Paratrooper offers better handling for CQB, the standard SKS is recommended for its distance performance and affordability.

Quick Summary

The standard 20.5-inch SKS barrel offers about 100 fps more velocity and a flatter trajectory than the 16.5-inch SKS Paratrooper, resulting in roughly 7.5 inches less bullet drop at 500 yards. The Paratrooper excels in handling for CQB, while the standard SKS is recommended for distance and affordability.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: SKS Short vs Long Barrel
  2. 00:35Rifle Specs: Paratrooper vs Standard SKS
  3. 01:05Velocity Testing Setup (LabRadar)
  4. 01:38Paratrooper Barrel Performance Data
  5. 03:05Standard Barrel Performance Data
  6. 04:15Long Range Shooting Test (300-500 yards)
  7. 06:15Ballistic Trajectory Comparison
  8. 07:45Conclusion & Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference in performance between a short-barrel SKS Paratrooper and a long-barrel SKS?

The longer 20.5-inch barrel on a standard SKS provides about 100 fps more velocity and a flatter trajectory, resulting in less bullet drop at distance compared to the 16.5-inch barrel of the SKS Paratrooper.

Which SKS variant is better for close-quarters combat (CQB)?

The SKS Paratrooper, with its shorter 16.5-inch barrel, offers superior handling and maneuverability, making it the better choice for close-quarters combat scenarios.

Is the standard SKS or the Paratrooper SKS more affordable?

Generally, the standard SKS rifle is more affordable and easier to find on the used market than the SKS Paratrooper variant, which can be harder to locate.

How much difference in bullet drop is there between the two SKS barrel lengths at 500 yards?

Testing showed the standard 20.5-inch barrel SKS had approximately 7.5 inches less bullet drop at 500 yards compared to the 16.5-inch barrel SKS Paratrooper.

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