The History & The Story:
In the mid-1950s, Soviet engineers and armorers traveled to the Jianshe Arsenal in China to assist in setting up the very first Type 56 production lines, bringing original Russian tooling and expertise with them. What resulted were the legendary "First-Year" rifles of 1956—firearms built without cut corners, featuring heavy milled components and spectacular deep bluing.
Shepard Arms is incredibly proud to bring an absolute "Grail" piece from that exact era to the auction block: a genuine, first-year 1956 Chinese Factory 26 SKS in breathtaking, unissued condition.
While millions of these rifles were dragged through the mud of global conflicts, this specific rifle was seemingly placed into deep storage the moment it rolled off the assembly line. Imported into the United States in the late 1980s/early 1990s by K-Sports Imports (bearing the classic KSI Pomona CA import stamp), it was perfectly preserved as a Cold War time capsule. The mechanical tolerances are still factory-stiff, the original bluing is flawless, and the wood is pristine. It is, without exaggeration, one of the finest examples of a Sino-Soviet era SKS available on the market today.
The Details & Specifications:
Manufacturer: Jianshe Arsenal (The highly coveted "Triangle 26" stamp).
Production Year: 1956 (Confirmed by the exceptionally low 5-digit serial number).
Serial Number: 19271. This rifle is 100% ALL MATCHING.
Condition: Mint / Unissued "New Old Stock." The metal retains its deep, gorgeous factory bluing with zero pitting, rust, or range wear. The stock is immaculate, showing none of the typical dents, dings, or trench art associated with military surplus.
Import Mark: Period-correct "MADE IN CHINA BY NORINCO KSI POMONA CA" stamped cleanly on the receiver.
The Complete Collector's Package:
This rifle isn't just surviving; it comes with the accessories to complete the display.
Original Fixed Magazine: The crucial factory 10-round fixed magazine is present and pristine.
Original Metal Oiler: Includes the original military-issue two-compartment (oil and alkaline solvent) metal canister.
Manual & Sling: Includes the generic English-translated importer manual from the era and the original canvas sling.
Bonus Magazines: As an added bonus for the shooter, this lot includes two aftermarket removable extended magazines.
If you have been waiting for a museum-grade Factory 26 SKS to act as the crown jewel of your Cold War surplus collection, your wait is over. Please review the high-definition photos closely to appreciate the mechanical perfection and flawless finish of this 1956 masterpiece.
Listing Integrity Notice:
This firearm has been described accurately and in good faith based on our inspection and experience. Minor variations in terminology or interpretation may exist, particularly with vintage firearms.
We are happy to assist serious buyers; however, we do not engage in debates over minor terminology or subjective interpretations. Our listings are intended for informed buyers who value a straightforward, professional purchasing experience.
