[2022] Buyer’s Guide: The Best Accessories for the SKS

| Last Updated:
September 11, 2023

As every SKS owner knows, the SKS rifle is versatile and suitable for both hunting and plinking.

However, there are many ways to improve on this weapon, and some of them include upgrading parts and installing accessories for better functionality.

In this article, we'll explore the wide variety of accessories that are suitable for your SKS and explain which of them are important to upgrade first.

We'll also share the top recommended accessories that will make your SKS shooting experience amazing.

 Comparison of the Best SKS Accessories

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Lightweight and durable polymer design with 20-round capacity
  • Easy to install and remove with minimal effort
  • Corrosion-proof, self-lubricating reinforced polymer for a long-lasting finish
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  • Full-length rail system for ample mounting space
  • Features a see-through design and a built-in shell deflector
  • Durable steel construction and ventilated design for protection
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  • 1-6 magnification with adjustment for parallax
  • ACSS reticle features a chevron center, providing an infinitely small aiming point
  • Red illuminated crosshairs with 11 brightness settings
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  • Practically indestructible glass-filled polymer design
  • Single piece stock and doesn't require much fitting
  • High cheek piece, spacer adjustable LOP, and a separate handguard
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  • Full-length glass-reinforced polymer frame with a folding stock
  • Top and bottom Picatinny rails and removable cheek riser
  • Scratch-resistant finish and fits all SKS rifles
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Why You Should Upgrade Your SKS

The SKS has been used in military applications since the immediate period after the Second World War. Developed in the interim between the Mosin-Nagant and the AK-47, Sergei Simonov’s semi-automatic carbine has a 10-round internal box magazine, an improvement over the five-round, bolt-action Mosin. 

For its innovative design and simplicity that were used in service for decades, the SKS does have some quirks that make it less than optimal compared to modern firearms.

The SKS, depending on the country of manufacture, and on the exact model (screw or pinned barrel, etc.), can be a fairly accurate, or a very accurate weapon.

Its magazine can be upgraded for detachable mags, and a better sight system can be added to improve accuracy. Besides the use of stripper mags for reloading, the SKS also lacks quality sights, and the factory stock is a not.

Which Accessories Are Best to Upgrade First?

Stock and Recoil Pad

Some owners of the SKS complain about the length of the factory stock, that is short enough to affect accuracy.

Upgraded Choate - SKS Dragunov Stock Adjustable

The ability to adjust the length of pull is also lacking in the SKS. Adding a recoil pad for the purpose of increasing the stock length and reducing shoulder pain is a commonly recommended change.

Magazine

The stripper clips for the SKS only hold 10 rounds, but the newly designed magazines allow conversion of the SKS to a magazine fed rifle as opposed to top loaded.

It does require some filing and modification to the factory wood stock, but the result is a convenient and modern rifle.

Scope

The SKS lacks scope mounts and a scope, but comes with sights.

Primary Arms 1-6X24mm SFP Riflescope with Patented ACSS 5.56/5.45/.308 Reticle Gen III

However, not all users are comfortable with them, and if you want to mount a scope, it is definitely an upgrade that will improve both accuracy and shooting results.

Reviews of the Best SKS Accessories

Due to the design of the SKS being superseded by modern firearms, SKS enthusiasts looking for accessories will find several options to improve their rifle.

We’ve checkout out the accessories market for the SKS and rounded up the top parts for your convenience.

Best SKS Magazine:
Tapco Weapons Accessories - SKS 20Rd Magazine 7.62X39

Pros

  • Superior durability
  • Holds up to 20 rounds
  • Easily fits 7.62x39 rounds
  • Allows for smooth, reliable cycling
  • Enters the mag well with no difficulty
  • Easy-to-install
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Overcomes the limitations of the original SKS stripper clip

Cons

  • Some modifications may be needed to fix “soft spots”
  • May take a bit to load by hand. Use a speedloader if needed
  • Doesn’t always fit the gun perfect, needs filing in some cases

What Recent Buyers Report 

A lot of new users were happy that this magazine gave them enough firing power to work with. The magazine was quite sturdy and did not break apart when hitting hard surfaces. One user said that he used this for a target shooting session and was able to purchase extras. He added that they were so durable that they don’t break apart no matter how hard you throw them onto the ground.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

If you want a magazine with a good amount of shooting power to work with, this is the one that you should get. In fact, 20 rounds are usually the default number for many SKS magazines. Furthermore, it’s tough all over and allows for jam-free shooting almost every single time. And since they are affordable, it wouldn’t hurt to snag some extras as well. 

This rugged and convenient molded-polymer magazine frees you from the hassle of the SKS old-fashioned stripper clips and upgrades the rifle with a modern detachable box magazine.

It has been designed to work reliably, specifically for the SKS. It is available in 20-round capacities, and the installation requires removal of the rifle’s internal magazine and hinged floorplate.

In some cases, it requires slight enlargement of the magazine opening.

The magazine is made from corrosion-proof, reinforced black polymer which is self-lubricating to ensure smooth, snag-free movement of the follower.

The horizontal exterior ribbing provides an excellent gripping surface. The magazine holds 20 rounds of 7.62x39 ammo and fits all SKS variants.

Who Will Use This Most 

This will be perfect for those who are looking for a magazine that will be excellent for any application that is deemed necessary. Hunting, target shooting, and competitive shooting will be your likely options. And with 20 rounds at your disposal with each magazine, the fun never ends when you shoot your SKS (until you run out of them of course). These magazines are great for multiple purposes and won’t do you any wrong if you keep using them over and over again.

Bottom Line 

The Tapco Weapons Accessories SKS 20 Round Magazine is what you’ll need handy in order to knock down some targets like paper targets or even whitetail deer. This is the perfect magazine that you’ll want for all your shooting needs for an SKS rifle. Don’t just get one, get a few to test out on your own. Trust us, these magazines don’t disappoint. 

If you want the convenience of a modern detachable magazine in your SKS, consider upgrading to this 20-round magazine from Tapco.

It is well designed and robust, ensuring a smooth experience when loading and reloading your gun.

Best SKS Stock:
Choate - SKS Dragunov Stock Adjustable

Pros

  • Reduces recoil considerably
  • Easy to adjust for length of pull
  • Can be attached to most rifle slings
  • Fits the SKS well
  • Great finish and texture
  • No modification of rifle needed

Cons

  • None

What Recent Buyers Report 

A lot of new buyers were happy with how easy the stock could be installed. By the time installation was complete, they were able to adjust it to their length of pull that was more comfortable to them. They instantly noticed a reduction in recoil as well. One user said that while he wasn’t the least bit surprised, he was quite happy with the amount of control he had over his rifle while testing it out the stock at the range.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

This stock is made from high-quality polymer that is proven to be super durable in almost any given application. And why not? If your rifle can handle the heavy-duty applications, it definitely deserves a lightweight but heavy-duty stock that can last you a long time. It’s made from high-quality fiberglass filled polymer. So in plain English, it’s pretty darn indestructible. If you need a stock that will give you comfort, easy adjustments, and superior durability then this stock won’t certainly disappoint. 

If you’re seeking a durable and lightweight stock for your SKS, consider the Dragunov adjustable stock.

It is made from a fiberglass-filled polymer that is practically indestructible and needs little or no fitting for installation.

The lightweight skeletonized design offers a natural and comfortable grip, with a high cheek piece and zero drop at comb for increased eye relief with receiver mounted scopes.

It also has a 1" butt pad, Russian style steel sling mount pin, and matching vented handguard.

Thanks to its adjustable length of pull spacer system, the stock allows convenient adjustment of the length of pull from 13" to 14-1/2" by simply adding spacers. The stock comes with 1" sling swivels and has a lifetime guarantee.

Who Will Use This Most 

This will be a great stock for those who are hunters who want a lightweight stock that doesn’t make the rifle heavy. Just because it’s lightweight, doesn’t make it cheap and flimsy. If you need a stock that can take on the bumps and bangs while reducing a good deal of recoil in the process, you’ll definitely want to give this stock a try.

Bottom Line

If you have an SKS rifle that will need an upgrade in the stock department, you may want to consider the Choate SKS Dragunov Stock. It’s definitely the go-to stock of choice if you want something that will be an alternative to the fixed stocks that give you a length of pull that is undesirable. Plus, it’s pretty much damage-proof so it will last you quite a while. 

Check out this lightweight and extremely robust synthetic stock for the SKS if you plan to adjust the length of pull for different shooters and are looking for a comfortable grip with easy installation.

Best SKS Scope Mount:
UTG Pro SKS Receiver Cover Mount

Pros

  • Super durable
  • Easy to install for most users
  • Fits most SKS rifles like a glove
  • Allows for customization thanks to the top rail
  • Helps protect scopes from losing their zero setting
  • Holds zero well
  • Made in the USA
  • Holds scopes and other attachments tightly

Cons

  • The deflector can jam the gun sometimes
  • Bolt has come loose after a few hundred rounds on some
  • May require some filing for a snug fit

What Recent Buyers Report 

Many of the new buyers were not complaining about this cover mount. And the reason why they’re not: the quality is pretty awesome. One user said that once he was able to zero in his scope, he made sure that the scope’s zero settings remained intact even after firing off more than 1000 rounds. He added that the mount comes off easily when you need to clean and maintain your rifle. 

Why it Stands Out to Us 

The cover mount is designed to cover a good part of your SKS rifle. On top of that, it has a top rail that you can use to mount any kind of scope or optic. So if your plan is to attach a scope and make your rifle more accurate and precise in terms of shooting, you’ll need a mount that will get the job done in keeping it steady. This cover mount will definitely be your go-to option if you’re not really impressed with all the other rails and scope mounts on the market. 

One of the best upgrades for your SKS include a receiver cover mount to hold accessories like scopes.

The UTG Pro SKS receiver cover mount is designed and manufactured in the USA from high-strength steel and aircraft-grade aluminum with matte black anodizing.

The full length, 22 slot Picatinny rail allows simply optics installation, ranging from compact to full size. The innovative shell deflector design gives the rifle plenty of ventilation while protecting both optics and shooter.

Thanks to the 4-point rock solid locking onto the receiver, the cover will provide precise alignment and hold zero reliably.

The cover weighs 12.1 oz  and is 9.06 inches long, 2.11 inches wide and 1.72 inches high.

Who Will Use This Most 

This would be ideal for those who want to beef up their SKS rifle for the purpose of making it more sinister looking. It might be a force to be reckoned with when going up against hunting targets. And it will surely turn some heads if you decide to get some shots in with your rifle at the range. But regardless, it’s an accessory that you must have on hand if and when you need to make a good number of upgrades as possible.

Bottom Line

The UTG SKS Pro Cover Mount is better than pretty much any scope mount that you’ll find on the market. It will only take a few minutes to install and will fit pretty much any scope that you can find for an SKS. It will protect your scope and keep it stable through so many rounds of gunfire. If you want a cover mount that is up to the challenge, this one will definitely be worth the investment. 

Tough, sturdy and good looking – this receiver cover for the SKS will hold your optics tightly while letting you get on with the business of shooting without worrying about stability.

Best SKS Scope:
Primary Arms 1-6X24mm SFP Riflescope with Patented ACSS 5.56/5.45/.308 Reticle Gen III

Pros

  • Easy to install. Takes a few minutes
  • Image quality is clear and high in definition
  • Super durable thanks to the high-quality aluminum
  • Illumination settings are perfect for low-light conditions
  • Adjustments for windage and elevation are easy and fluid
  • Durable and tough
  • Fast focus eyepiece
  • Waterproof, fog resistant and shock resistant

Cons

  • Eye relief may not be the best
  • Some have complained about the reticle being a bit too small

What Recent Buyers Report 

A lot of new buyers were looking for a scope for their SKS rifles that allowed durability, excellent image clarity and pinpoint accuracy like nothing else. Sure enough, this scope did not disappoint. New users were able to install this on their rifles in a matter of a few minutes and instantly got a boost in their accuracy. They also described the image quality as top-notch, even in conditions where the visibility was not the best. 

Why it Stands Out to Us 

This scope has all the fixings of a hunting scope that will be excellent to use in almost any given application. But where it shines the brightest is hunting. You can activate the illuminated settings in a low-light setting and be able to knock down your targets when the sun rises or sets. It can still be useable in broad daylight and give you precise, accurate shooting that is hard to match. If you want a boost in accuracy, you’d be crazy to pass up the opportunity to give this scope a closer look. 

The Primary Arms 1-6x24 SFP GEN III Rifle Scope contains advanced technology such as the Advanced Combined Sighting System reticle. It makes features like bullet drop compensation, wind holds, moving target leads and range estimation easy to use and intuitive.

The second focal plane design means the reticle remains the same size at all magnifications for quick acquisition.

The scope allows you to zoom in at 6x maximum power. The Gen III scope is 10.04 inches long and weighs 16.90 oz.

Who Will Use This Most 

This scope will be a hunter’s best friend, without question. It can still be useful to almost just about any other SKS user that is a competitive or casual target shooter. If you want a scope that won’t leave you hanging and deliver you a good amount of accurate shots at impressive distances (i.e.--300 to 400 yards), this scope might just be right up your alley. It will also stick with you for the long haul since it’s well-constructed and has the ability to preserve and protect your zero settings. 

Bottom Line

If you want the perfect scope, the Primary Arms SFP Riflescope might just be your cup of coffee. With illumination settings and excellent image quality at your disposal, you should have no problem firing off all kinds of shots and knocking down the hunting targets that you have long been after for quite some time. This scope is an absolute beast and you’d be disappointed if you had to settle for less than this. 

It is a fully featured scope that can compete with the best optics. Ideal for hunting and target shooting in all sorts of conditions, the Gen III scope will take whatever you dish out and keep you on target.

5. Advanced Technology - SKS Strikeforce Stock Adjustable

Pros

  • Installs in minutes
  • Superior durability
  • Easy and fluid adjustments
  • Reduces recoil up to 50 percent
  • Handles bad weather and does not damage while you use solvents and oils
  • Lifetime warranty
  • 6 position collapsible buttstock
  • Comfortable and non-slip pistol grip

Cons

  • None

What Recent Buyers Report 

Most of the new buyers had raved about this stock for its durability. They said that no oil or solvent would damage the stock thus making it super easy to clean their rifles. They were also able to make the adjustments needed for the purpose of making it more comfortable and easy to fit for themselves. Even one user said that he was able to make an adjustment to find the best reach for him before he was able to take his SKS rifle hunting. To add, he’s even noticed a good amount of recoil being eliminated in the process. 

Why it Stands Out to Us 

This stock is made from polymer filled with Extreme Glass Temperature Glass developed by DuPont. Yes, the same DuPont is known for developing kevlar for body armor. And since the stock is proven to be impossible to damage, you probably are not surprised that DuPont had a hand in this. Aside from it being one of the best stocks in terms of durability, it’s adjustments are easy to make. You have six different adjustments to work with and one of them might just fit you perfectly. With this stock, you’ll make your SKS rifle useable to just about anyone with the right kind of adjustment. If the length of pull is too short, pull the stock back a bit. Too long? Push it forward. It’s as simple as that. 

To make your shooting experience with the SKS more exciting, you can check out the adjustable Strikeforce stock with the Advanced Technology SKS 6-Position Side Folding Stock with Forend Pistol Grip.

Made from DuPont extreme temperature glass reinforced polymer, complete in a matte black finish, this drop-in replacement rifle stock offers a 6-position collapsible butt stock that can fold flat to the left side of the rifle and be fired from the open or closed position.

Attaching lights, lasers, or anything else is easy because of one 4-inch Picatinny top mount rail and three 2-inch rails on the front of the top cover.

Both the cheek piece and the non-slip rubber butt pad are removable, and the cheek piece is fully adjustable.

The textured pistol grip is designed to feel comfortable in your hand, and the six sling swivel studs allow any type of sling to be attached.

Being both resistant to scratches and weatherproof, this durable stock also comes with a lifetime manufacturer's warranty.

Who Will Use This Most 

This would be a great adjustable stock for those who are looking for something that will last them years or even decades. And since it’s hard to damage this stock, this might be the last one that you’ll ever buy period. If you want to beef up your SKS and turn it into an indestructible beast, it starts with finding the right kind of accessories. And this stock might be a great place to start. 

Bottom Line

The Advanced Technology SKS Stock is certainly going to be one of the more popular choices for those who want something that will reduce recoil and definitely give your rifle a better length of pull. This just might be the stock of stocks when it comes to upgrading your SKS rifle. If you want something that is super tough and easy to install, consider this your best possible option. 

Get this stock for your SKS if you’re looking for a change to your SKS’ factory stock and want to liven things up a bit. With a comfortable pistol grip and an option to mount attachments on the top of the stock, you really can’t go wrong with it.

Conclusion  

Keep in mind that no matter what accessories you install on your SKS, you'll still need to deal with the inherent limitations of this rifle.

It makes sense to upgrade components that make the shooting experience or accuracy better, but keep in mind that the SKS is not a high-end rifle and adding expensive items may be overkill.

We hope this review has been helpful in outlining some of the best accessories for your SKS. Have fun with your build!

Michael Lutes

Michael Lutes is the managing editor and owner at Gun Mann. He is a veteran, gun enthusiast, 3 gun competitor, and 2a advocate. Mike has a passion for innovation and education across the industry to create great content, training, and insights from the best and brightest.

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