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CHINESE SKS
Q:
My dad has a Chinese Type 56 SKS. The serial number, 159XXX, is on the receiver and on the stock by the butt. It also has “N.A.C. O Ridgefield, NJ” stamped on the receiver. The gun is original and in good shape, though the stock does have some dings and scratches, but not too bad. The only thing that’s not original on the gun is the magazine clips, carrying strap and bayonet. It also has a cleaning kit built in the butt. I want to know more about the rifle and whether it was ever used by the military. Also, I’d like to know how much it’s worth.
--J.R., Burleson, TX

A:
A version of the Soviet-designed Samozariadniya Karabina Simonova (SKS) first appeared at the end of World War II, but a redesigned, improved version didn’t actually go into production until 1949. It also was made in the USSR, China, East Germany, North Korea, Yugoslavia and Romania, and though superseded by the AK47 with the Russians, it continued in use for many years in other lands. Millions have been produced over the years, especially in China. Chinese guns are the ones most commonly found in the U.S. Your particular piece was imported by Navy Arms, as indicated by the barrel markings. In the condition you describe, an older import Chinese SKS is worth in the $250 range.

EARLY COLT 1911
Q:
I have a Colt 1911. On the right side it reads “model of 1911 US Army.” On the left side, back by the trigger, it has some letters. I think they are “WGP.” The gun was carried by my grandfather in WWI. It is blued and has no serial number. Where on the gun might there be one? With this information, could you tell me what it is and maybe what it might be worth? Thank you very much. I have enjoyed your magazine for many years.
--D.O.S., Hermiston, OR

A:
The serial number of your Colt 1911 should be on the right side of the frame above the triggerguard. The initials you mention are “WGP,” which stands for Major Walter G. Penfield, who inspected 1911 Government Models from 1912 to 1914. This would mean you have a fairly early piece, and if it is in reasonable condition, it’s fairly desirable. Assuming 50 to 70 percent condition, your granddad’s 1911 is worth in the $1,200 to $2,500 range.

L.C. SMITH DOUBLE
Q:
I have a field-grade 12-gauge L.C. Smith double-barrel shotgun, serial number 100XXX. Both barrels are choked Full. I would say it is in 95 to 99 percent condition. Could you give me any information as to the value?
--C., via email

A:
There are a number of different models of L.C. Smith doubles dating from the late 1870s to the present. Without more information on your gun, it’s virtually impossible to give a value. If you could send me more information, such as patent dates and other markings, that would help me pare down things a little.

.32-20 COLT
Q:
I have come into possession of a Colt Single Action Army in .32-20 made in 1901. I would like to shoot it, but the cylinder has some play in it, both to the front and side to side. Is this something that can be repaired without destroying the value?
--T.M., via email

A:
Unless there is something grossly wrong with your SAA (which I seriously doubt), there shouldn’t be too much difficulty getting it repaired without affecting its value. From your description of the problem, it might be fixable by simply installing a new cylinder bushing. Take it to a competent gunsmith, and have him check it out. Fortunately, replacement parts abound. Just don’t refinish the gun or do anything to take away from its original configuration or appearance.