Design Comparisons
As the Type-63 was introduced in 1963, it most closely resembles the Chinese Type-56 carbine that was in simultaneous production at the Jianshe Arsenal, Factory /26\. However both the North Korean and the Chinese were based on the Russian SKS-45. On this page we will illustrate the most noticeable differences compared to other nations.
Stocks
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The similarities and differences of the laminated stock are most interesting. Both the North Korean and the Russian stocks appear to be constructed of cross-grained birch and have an identical number of layers, at 47.
The underside of the forestock from the trigger guard to the bayonet groove is filled with a wide horizontal laminate plug on the Russian, and is left unplugged as vertical laminate on the North Korean. The North Korean does have a larger rivet head for retaining the follower spring. Light colored stock in photos is the North Korean. (bottom) |
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The Type-63 stock has two front reinforcing pins, vs. only one on the Russian SKS-45. The finger grasping groove is shorter on the North Korean, and it has a solid hardwood handguard as apposed to the Russian which has a longer finger groove and a horizontal laminated handguard.
The Type-63 stock wrist has two reinforcing pins instead of the single Russian crossbolt. The trigger finger relief cut is also much longer and more shallow on the North Korean. Light colored stock in photos is the North Korean. (top) |
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Bayonets
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The bayonet collars are nearly identical. Knurling is the same, but the attaching arm is slightly longer on the North Korean. The Type-63 bayonet itself is thinner than on the Russian.
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Bolt Carrier
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Notice the oblong beveling shape of the stripper clip guide on the Type-63. This feature is one that I have only noticed on the North Korean. All other SKS model stripper clip guides are straight edged rectangular, or stepped rectangular.
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Bolt
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Noticeably different then all other models of SKS Carbines, the Type-63 has a prominent back-cut channel around the outside and only the center of the round is supported. The purpose for this feature isn't apparent, but it may possibly act as a relief area for debris,
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Receiver
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The upper front left side of the receiver has a 'flat' area similar to an early russian. The profile on the other side however is rounded like normal with only a very slight ridge. Again, the purpose for this feature isn't very apparent.
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Gas Block
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Noticeably different then all other models of SKS Carbines, 'some' Type-63 carbines are found having the gas shutoff valve for launching grenades. The Type-63 also appears to have a chrome lined internal portion of the gas block cylinder. An obvious upgrade to prevent corrosion.
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