The SKS either Chinese or Russian is an effective weapon for the price. The similarities of the SKS and AK are nearly identical, however the SKS was just an attempt to copy the AK at a lower price, and can be changed much more.

   Now you can usually pick up the sks for around $200-$400, for the price it is amazing! compared to the assualt rifle AR-15 for around $1000 its a steal. The benefits of owning your sks consist of the simple yet effective modifications you can make. Any online market like cheaperthandirt.com can offer you a wide array of cheap mods, such as new stocks, picatinny rails, and much more. For the money i believe the sks is amazing, and you can change nearly anything on it. The reliabilty is very good as well, these guns hardly ever jam and are simple to clean. now the cons would consist of: weight, and mobility. however its a great gun with cheap ammo and easy to change to your liking.