Weston Travis

This pistol is incredibly compact. Without a stock or a giant modern optics bridge, it is barely larger than a standard full-size handgun, just thicker. It easily slides into a tiny pistol pouch or the front pocket of a backpack for easy transport.

Schneider

This gun is designed around standard European-spec .32 ACP ammunition (like Sellier & Bellot or Fiocchi), which tends to be loaded a little hotter. I tried some cheap, underpowered domestic target ammo, and it suffered a few failures to eject. Switch back to S&B and it runs like clockwork.

Wayne Fitzpatrick

Grab it online whenever you see it. This stuff sells out fast as soon as fall approaches. I finally found it in stock online, paid the hazmat fee, and ordered a couple of jugs. It arrives well-padded, completely sealed, and saves me from driving to five different stores.

Gerrit

The twin "ear" charging knobs on the sides of the upper receiver are very small and can be a bit brutal on your fingers if the gun is brand new and stiff. I highly recommend gripping them with your thumb and forefinger tightly, or wearing a thin pair of shooting gloves during break-in.

Boone Austin

I see so many people online ripping off the gorgeous wood stocks to slap these into cheap polymer stocks and forced detachable magazines. The fixed 10-round magazine is how the rifle was engineered to run flawlessly. Keep it original and enjoy its history.

Levi Fletcher

An absolute classic that never gets old. I have been reloading for over 40 years, and a jug of Unique has always been on my bench. It is safe, highly predictable, and incredibly forgiving. It is the absolute best powder for a beginner to learn on because the charge volumes are easy to see in the case.

Hank

Traditional powders create a massive cloud of white smoke that blinds you from seeing the animal's reaction. This powder produces significantly less smoke, allowing me to instantly track the deer's flight path through my scope.

Vance

If you grew up playing classic video games or watching 80s action movies, you need this gun. It is an absolute blast to shoot. It doesn't serve a practical tactical purpose, but it instantly draws a crowd and puts a massive smile on everyone's face at the range.

Stetson Hayes

I own a Chinese Type 56 and a Yugoslavian M59/66, but this Russian Tula is on another level. The machining is beautifully refined, the chrome-lined barrel makes cleaning a breeze, and it lacks the front-heavy weight of the Yugo grenade launcher. It is easily the best SKS ever made.

Rowdy

My rifle came with a crisp Tula star and arrow stamp on the receiver cover, matching serial numbers on all parts, and the original blade bayonet. The reddish shellac finish on the Arctic birch stock looks stunning. It is a fantastic functional investment.