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How to Add a Scope to an SKS Rifle

SKS rifles were the primary battle rifles of the Soviet army during the 1950s. These surplus rifles are inexpensive and reliable. By placing a scope on your SKS rifle, you can increase your accuracy whether you're target shooting or hunting. To mount a scope on your SKS, you must replace the receiver cover with a version that accommodates scopes. Replacement covers are produced either with pre-installed scope rings or with a rail scope mount. Rail mounts allow you to quickly attach a scope with tactical scope rings. Before working on your rifle, check to make sure that it is unloaded.

Instructions

Receiver Cover Replacement
- 1
  Locate the receiver cover retaining pin -- at the rear of the receiver -- and turn it to the up position, then pull the pin to the right.
- 2
  Pull the receiver cover rearward and remove it.
- 3
  Place the new receiver cover on your rifle and return the cover retaining pin to its original position.
Scope Installation with Scope Rings
- 4
  Remove the screws holding the halves of the scope rings together. Remove the upper halves of the scope rings.
- 5
  Put the scope in the rings, reinstall the upper halves of the scope rings and partially tighten the screws.
- 6
  Position the scope as desired and complete tightening the screws.
Scope Installation with Rail Mount
- 7
  Loosen the retention screws at the base of your tactical scope rings and spread the scope ring retention bracket.
- 8
  Position your scope on the rail mount and align the scope rings retention bracket over the sides of the mount.
- 9
  Tighten the retention screws, securing your scope to your rifle.

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