In the global history of war, firearms like the AK47 have always been the weapon of choice to equip poorly trained soldiers en masse. However, the Russian army – which was mainly consisted of conscripted illiterate peasants – acquired the tradition of making cheap, rugged, easy to use, and effective weapons for more than a century.
AK47 rifles used like the bolt action Mosin Nagand towards the end of the 19th century or the semi-auto SVT38 were quite popular. There was also the SVT40 designs that crowned in the wake of the Great Patriotic War (what the Soviets called World War 2) with Samozaryadnyj Karabin Sistemy Simonova.
The self-loading carbines of the system Simonov (1945 model) – named SKS45 – was produced in the USSR between 1949 to 1958. Presently, the SKS is a great and popular rifle due to its affordable and inexpensive price tag. At the same time, its ammunitions is considered to be widely affordable too.
Buying a surplus of military firearms is a great way pf investment generally – for both financial and practical reasons. For obvious reasons, we should not forget that those guns may have historical significant and collectible values.
However, when it comes to the mass-produced rifles like the SKS, there are usually no place for the dilemma. It is one carbine manufactured in millions of units worthy of modifying.
| Stocks | Name | Editor’s Comment | Rating | Get The Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Choate Adjustable SKS Dragunov Stock | Most Recommended Option 1. Ambidextrous thumbhole pistol grip | 10/10 | SHOP NOW |
 | ATI SKS Monte Carlo Stock | 1. Includes gas tube handguard 2. Checkered pistol grip and forearm improve control 3. Rubber butt pad adds one inch of extended length for comfort | 9.5/10 | SHOP NOW |
 | Tapco Weapons Accessories – Adjustable Stock w/o Bayonet Cut | 1. Snug and precision fit 2. Composite lightweight stock 3. Comes with an excellent grip angle | 8.5/10 | SHOP NOW |
The Criteria for a Great SKS Aftermarket Stocks
Like other crucial elements, the stock is an important feature of a rifle, especially if you are looking to custom building it. The stock plays a huge part in the comfort and form of the user. It can dictate how convenient you can handle the rifle whenever you are firing it. It will obviously and eventually affect the accuracy of your shots.
Before transforming a soldier’s carbine into a modern semi-auto rifle, there has to be some kind of core features involved in the design. The replacement stock should be made from high quality materials, undoubtedly. It has to have the ability to last several years regardless of heavy use in harsh environments.
However, we are not exaggerating when you find it impossible to shoot after fitting the wrong stock to your rifle. You can force pull it, but don’t expect to hot anything. On the other hand, a suitable and well-made rifle can improve the performance of your favourite firearm.
Quality and Materials
First and foremost, the quality of aftermarket stocks mainly depends on the variety of the materials used in making the gun. For many obvious reasons, it is important to not ignore the material of the gun.
Hence, ignoring models that comes with low quality material. Pay more attention for top notch components complemented by a professional finish. Lightweight stocks have to be firm and stable, which can allow your gun to rest securely on a platform anytime you are shooting.
Price
Remember that old adage – “you get what you pay for”? Well yeah, it applies for guns and gun accessories too. It simply means quality and price often go hand in hand most times, whether if you like it or not.
We have to mention in advance that the replacement stocks vary in design and price. With plenty of reviews surveying, you are still able to get an aftermarket SKS stock that is cost effective and affordable.
Performance and Design
As a result from the most advanced technology, different SKS stock designs range from traditional, wood crafted hunting furniture to synthetic or hybrid. As gun owners, you should also look into advanced configurations like a folding or AR-style collapsible stock. Or at one setup that changes SKS into a space-age bullpup weapon.
Are All SKS Stocks the Same?
Not all SKS stocks are the same. The reason why it is not the same is because some stocks are typically designed differently than the others. Some stocks are fixed stocks, whereas some other stocks are either collapsible, foldable, or even adjustable.
Some stocks feature recoil pads that are slightly thicker than your average stock. Although all stocks have the same intent and purpose, the smallest of details often made a huge difference.
Benefits of Upgrading SKS Stocks
Similar to a lot of service rifles, the SKS is built for the average physical constitution conscript. It follows a classic military slogan: one size fits all.
Furthermore, since that the stock is the vital component of SKS carbines, the majority of Simonov wood stocks are hard. However, it is still susceptible to the ravages of time or chemical exposure.
What more factory SKS stocks are burdensome. Due to the elements like water and heat, it can warp over the course of time. There are always room for improvement since aftermarket synthetic stocks are more resistant and difficult to gouge, scratch, or swell with heavy usage.
Whether if you want a rifle adapted to modern ergonomics or merely a replacement for a worn out stock, contemporary replacement stocks improve form, functionality, and the overall appearance of your classic firearm.
Compared to factory stocks, the new models tend to reduce the weight, making the guns better balanced. Enable the use of AK-style magazines, and due to the adjustable butt-pads, they now offer comfortable stances and provide appropriate length of pull (LOP).
On top of that, for the sportsmen looking for a less traditional stock options, there is a “sporterized” alternatives like a folding stock that gives you more portability and a lighter rifle overall.
Left-Handed or Right-Handed
Your “handedness” has a part to play in this – are you left-handed or right handed? It is important to know as your answer will determine the type of stock that you should choose. However, surprisingly a lot of gun owners choose to ignore this factor, which can be a bad thing.
If you are a left-handed shooter, then it is important that you do not ignore this consideration. Most of the rifle and firearm accessories currently are made for right-handed shooters. It’s also a good thing that a lot of gun models and gun stocks have custom designs for left-handed users too.
The Right Stock
This is one of the most important factor and consideration. However, making a mistake of it can lead to you wasting more money instead of saving any. Do not buy a custom stock for AR rifles if you are using an SKS.
That is considered as ridiculous and unreasonable. In all honesty, wrong stocks can still allow you to shoot your firearm. But you are demeaning the full potential of your gun. Furthermore, bad stocks are uncomfortable to use.
Another matter you should take into account is the length of the action. Especially you will need to know if your rifle has a short or long-action length. There are specific stocks that are compatible with each action-length types. Try get the consistent stocks for your rifle instead.
The Best SKS Stocks in 2022 – Reviewed
Here is the list of some of the best SKS stocks that are currently on the market. Keep the criteria in mind when choosing the best stock that fits your SKS rifle best. You may find one that suits you.
1. Choate Adjustable SKS Dragunov
A lot of new and recent buyers mentioned how this stock is really easy to install. It is also easy to adjust to ensure that its length of pull is perfect for user use.
One of the users say that he was able to adjust the stock to his best and appropriate length. He was able to get a good and solid number of recoil reduced shots out of his SKS. Generally the stock’s durability is pretty solid and is described by some users as close to indestructible.
The reason why the design stands out to many gun owners and gun users is because of its design. It is a minimal design that makes the SKS a bit lighter in weight. What more a skeleton design stock is maybe the best for those who wants to keep a lightweight to start off with.
Besides all of that, the stock is made out of high-quality polymer that is reinforced with fiberglass. To put it simply, it means it is as durable as it gets. We are talking about hardcore durability here. That means if you like your stocks sturdy and able to reduce a good amount of recoil, then this should be what you are looking for.
As it is a Russian-designed rifle, this model combines SKS carbine and Dragunov sniper rifle and it’s blended really well. The premium manufacturer for a lot of replacement stocks, Choate Machine & Tool, has oftentimes offered to market a fiberglass-filled polymer.
This SKS replacement stock is said to have a recognizable and appealing design of a Dragunov rifle. Its durable material is due to its immunity and adaptability to physical changes that can be induced by humidity and unfavorable weather.
On top of that, it is strong and easy to travel with too, as it weighs only 2lbs 7oz (approximately 1.11kg). The Dragunov style buttstocks provide your SKS with a vertical pistol grip, which is considered a thumbhole stock.
At the same time, this SKS Dragunov Stock with separate handguard is rocking a nicecheek rest for use with an optic. Its high cheek piece and 0 drop at comb for increases eye relief is a must for receiver mounted scopes.
It also comes with spacers to allow you up to 1” adjustment to the length of pull, handy accessories for large stature shooters. The stock also adds two 1” sling swivels for the use with modern 2 point slings.
This is a really excellent SKS stock for gun users who tend to carry it for a good part of the day while hunting. It is a lot lighter compared to most stocks, if we can put it that way. However, do rest assure as you are able to carry ot over your shoulder with a trusty sling.
If you want a stock that can last you a very long time, this may just be right what you are looking for.
The Choate SKS Dragunov Stock is maybe one of the best and well designed stocks you can currently find on the market. And that is one of the reasons as to why is so popular among gun owners and gun users.
Furthermore, the durability is hard to match too. For one of the most reliable and strong stock that can give you total control over your rifle without the additional weight, this should be yours. Or one your choices to be frank.
This Choate skeleton stock gives your SKS carbine the look of the famous Dragunov rifle with reduced weight and excellent adjustability. Which allows it to be installed with ease. There is also a wide range of choice that does not include the cheek piece or spacers.
2. Tapco Weapons Accessories SKS Intrafuse Stock (Adjustable, Without Bayonet Cut)
A lot of new gun owners are reportedly quite happy with this stock. And for good reasons too. For one, they are able to easily adjust it to make the length of pull (LOP) a lot more usable compared to fixed stocks.
Another reason why they like it a lot is its ability to break it down for stress-free storage. One new user said its collapsibility makes storing his SKS rifle in this vehicle a lot easier. In terms of performance, they are also quick to point out that the recoil is reduced considerably when installed.
If you are wondering if this stock is adjustable and collapsible, the easy answer is yes and yes! This stock is said to be great for beginners who use their SKS rifles for just about any other purposes.
You can break this down and store it in tight spaces. Hence, if you have a gun cabinet that can make room for one more rifle, then you will want to consider reserving it for an SKS with a stock that can come apart. Transportation and storage have never been made simpler. So if saving space is important to you, then this stock may be right what you are looking for!
This Tapco’s Intrafused Stock System works on a lot of SKS models and is made of high quality composite materials. The lightweight Tapco Intrafuse T6 SKS stock system is made from a glass-reinforced polymer, which makes it nearly indestructible and resistant to the harshest elements.
At the same time, this model provides the shooter with a 6-position adjustable stock that allows you to rapidly change in the length of pull (LOP), from 11/5” collapsed to 15”, fully extended. Other features include a SAW pistol grip with storage that greatly improves the level of comfort and control.
This Intrafuse Stock System substitutes the original stock by offering a contemporary tactical weapon look. Which comes with an upgraded handguard that comes with 2 built-ib Picatinny rails.
Its lower Picatinny rails helps enable your SKS to use accessories such as the bipod and vertical grip for your weapon. At the same time, the upper handguard rail will allow you to mount a red-dotted sight. The SKS Intrafuse replacement stock is available in a variant that allows you to retain an original spike Bayonet.
It comes with an extra benefit where this stock kit contains 3 US-made compliance parts. Which puts it in compliance with 18 USC 922® federal laws.
This will be really great for beginners who are looking for a stock that is easy to adjust and comfortable to use. With the recoil pad equipped with this, it hill make you feel like a pillow is resting on your shoulders. The best thing is that it is super durable and easy to attach and detach if and when you need it done.
The Tapco Weapons Adjustable SKS Intrafused Stock is a well-made and durable stock that makes adjusting and storage as easy as ABC. Not only does it make transporting your rifle inside your vehicle easier, but it can also make your rifle a lot more usable in terms of adjusting the length of pull (LOP).
For obvious reasons, it is quite affordable for a lot of gun owners and gun users who are on a budget as well. For a stock with features like this one, you are getting a lot more than what you have paid for.
The collapsible stock unit gives your classic weapon a good transformation, which converts an SKS into an easy to pack short rifle. The SKS Intrafuse Stock improves the appearance of the rifle without the involvement of permanent gunsmithing alterations.
3. ATI SKS Monte Carlo Stock
One of the few things that a lot of new gun owners have noticed is a reduction in recoil. They actually reported a reduction of up to 50%. Similarly, they are also happy with the recoil pad being really comfortable for them while they take each shot.
Installation takes no more than ½ hour for a lot of new gun owners, and it is quite light in weight. Hence it does not feel like they are carrying a dumbbell. A lot of new users were hunters while a lot others are target shooters.
This stock may be made from polymer, however it preserves the classic wooden look very well. That means if you like something that may be closest to a classic, old school rifle, then this stock is probably something you should be looking into closer.
It is most likely one of the best SKS stocks in the business when it comes to recoil reduction.
A lot of people know how recoil can throw them off their shots and gives you less control over your rifles. Besides that, we also know that recoil can also give our shoulders a very hard time also.
So that means if you want to take out shoulder abuse due to recoil and make shooting experiences more comfortable, then this may just be what you are looking for in a stock!
This ATI SKS Monte Carlo Stock is a traditional rifle stock designed for hunting and shooting in extreme conditions. This stock also transforms your military battle rifle into a sported hunting rifle, but with a modern finish!
Like a lot of modern polymers used in weapons, the DuPont glass reinforces polymer is scratch-proof and weather-proof. It provides a stable shooting platform in almost any environment, so to speak. This ATI Outdoor stock is a contemporary stock and complies with state laws regarding assault weapons too.
The Monte Carlo SKS Stock has raised cheek pieces made of 3M soft touch materials. It ensures proper sight alignment and comfort while using an optic. On top of all that, it also has a proprietary Scorpion recoil pad that significantly cuts down the impact caused by recoils. It is also said to diminish the challenge of re-acquiring the target by minimizing the muzzle lift.
It features a checkered fore-end and a pistol grip for comfortable and increased control. An affordable stock with a great and stylish appearance may demand some minor modifications. That is normal since the concept of an ATI stock is to adapt to fir a variety of SKS models.
The stock will definitely bring a bit of the classic look to the table, However, it’s the performance that will matter the most. Not only that, it is also a stock that is great for a lot of shooters who wants more comfort and less shoulder abuse.
It does not matter if you are target shooting or deer hunting. You deserve less recoil and more comfortable shooting than anything else. How can anyone, including you, possibly say no to that?
The ATI SKS Monte Carlo Stock is considered a gift from the gods for those who wants to save their shoulders from further abuse from recoil. Not forgetting to mention, it is designed to give you better control over your rifle in any given application.
Do not be taken aback if you are shooting with a solidly built stock attached that has a recoil pad that feels like a cloud.
While the ATI SKS stock is made for right-handed gun users only, it is also an affordable option intended for budget-conscious gun owners looking to update their classic rifle. In summary, the ATI Monte Carlo stock is a great option for your shooting activities. It will fit many SKS variants.
Just keep in mind that it may require the removal of the blade bayonet for the installation.
Our Verdict
Due to the scrupulous construction of these stocks, you are sure to get high standard products that will revive your old SKS. These replacement stocks utilize much stronger and tougher composite materials, which often comes with modernized features.
It can dramatically improve the functionality of your SKS, so to speak. Since that most are the simple drop in stocks, there is no need for permanent changes to your old rifle after all. Hence, you can swap the SKS back to its historically correct configuration with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best stock for SKS rifles?
The best SKS stocks would depend on what you are looking for. There are a lot of very good SKS stocks on the market for your SKS rifles. Tapco and ATI produces some of the best stock for SKS rifles.
Can SKS Stocks Fit Into AR15 Rifles?
Yes, SKS stocks is compatible with an AR 15 because you’d perform any modifications and upgrades on it. Hence, all you need is to perform modification onto the stock and prepare buttstock without pistol grip. This would ensure the performance and accuracy of your AR 15.
Is SKS Stock Legal To Use?
Yes, you’ve nothing to worry about as SKS stocks are perfectly legal in the United States because they’re semi automatics that capable of housing 10 rounds. However, it is wrongful and illegal to import these rifles.
Hello there, it’s Michael here. A gun lover since young, served the country for the last 20 years. I started the blog to share my experience and gun-related knowledge accumulated throughout the years. Hopefully, you will find something useful over here or just have fun! You can learn more about me here.