Letter Series Tulas

[Woodbeef]

The last of production at Tula saw a few differences from previous years. Sometime during 1955 a letter was added to the end of the serial number only on the receiver. There were rumored to be 4 letter used D(flat topped A) I (backwards N) K, the fourth is E but I have never seen this one myself. The regular Tula star on the top cover and stock was discontinued at this time. A small star was added to the receiver after the serial number. This was also the first useage of original red laminate stocks from the factory. I've owned "D" and "I" non-refurbs in hardwood,and laminate. I've only owned and seen "K" in laminate.

Now the "D" rifles were made first,and show some transitional abnormalities. There are some out there with 1955 dated top covers with the Tula star,others with Tula star top covers without dates,and others with blank top covers,but Tula stars without dates on the stock.

The "I" rifles came next. The hardwoods are rarer then in the "D" series.

The "K" rifles were last.

[OLD OUTLAW]

Nice article.Did you see this one I posted over yonder?
An all original I Letter in AB. Clean dark blued Butt Plate. NO rack wear on it either.
It seems to be total perfection! One of my real Queens. I took a ton of picks on this one.

[Woodbeef]

Here's an "I" laminate non-refrurb I had a couple of years ago. Unfortunately I took the pics indoors with flash.

[MN Fan]

Woodbeef, thank you for the information and article. I have been reading everything I can find recently in regards to the SKS rifle. Old Outlaw has had to face the brunt of of my questions so far.

Much like Drago's "Ex-DDR Tutorial", your information is clear, concise and to the point. Its the type of information I will retain when I am actually in the shop looking over a potential purchase. Its amazing that no matter how much I read, once I walk up to the rack, I suddenly freeze and can't recall anything. I now feel like I have a good handle on Ex-DDR markings and letter series SKSs!

Nice rifles, gentlemen. Beautiful...both of them. The one I am picking up Friday has a laminate stock. Its the one that spoke to me and I admit I have wanted a laminate stock for awhile. These dark stocks are now speaking to me and I am going to have to take a second look around the city and see what's out there!

Very nice!