Norinco SKS Type 56 “Paratrooper” 7.62x39 Semi-Automatic Rifle – Short 16.5-Inch Barrel, Matching Parts, Chrome-Lined Bore
This Norinco Type 56 Paratrooper is the sought-after short-barrel SKS built expressly for the U.S. market in the early 1990s. Factory code 0138 rifles appear far less often than standard /26\ examples, and this one retains matching serial digits on the bolt carrier, rear sight, and butt-stock. A chrome-lined bore and chamber, folding cruciform spike bayonet, and hot-blued forged steel receiver round out a compact, 8-pound carbine that blends collectible appeal with shootable practicality.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in solid shape, with scattered scratches and blemishes on the metal and wood surfaces. The bore remains clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- 2 × 30-round steel SKS detachable “duckbill” magazines (one marked “U.S.A.”)
- Canvas SKS sling (installed)
The Paratrooper’s 16.5-inch chrome-lined barrel trims overall length and weight without sacrificing reliability. Combined with the short-stroke gas piston system and tilting-bolt action, it delivers the familiar SKS balance in a handier package.
A folding cruciform spike bayonet, left in the white, remains fitted to the barrel. The integral cleaning rod is present, preserving the rifle’s original military configuration.
The hardwood stock and matching handguard wear an oil finish that contrasts nicely with the hot-blued metalwork. Proof marks include the Chinese characters 五六式 and the less-common factory code 0138, adding collector interest.
Iron sights consist of a hooded front post and tangent ladder rear, giving shooters a traditional sight picture. A pivoting safety sits just behind the trigger for familiar SKS handling.
This rifle ships with two steel 30-round magazines, expanding capacity to 30 + 1 rounds of 7.62x39 while retaining the SKS platform’s rugged simplicity.