AR-15 vs SKS

1964–Present

1945–1990s

12,000,000+ units (combined military, law‑enforcement, and civilian production)

Over 15 million

840 mm (33.1 in) with stock extended (16 in barrel), 730 mm (28.7 in) with stock collapsed (14.5 in barrel)

1020 mm

406 mm (16 in) standard, 368 mm (14.5 in) carbine, 508 mm (20 in) designated marksman, 254 mm (10 in) pistol‑length

520 mm

3.2 kg (7.1 lb) empty (16 in barrel, without optics)

3.85 kg

30 rounds standard, 10/20/40/60 round options, drum magazines up to 100 rounds

10 rounds (fixed)

Direct‑impingement gas system (original) or short‑stroke gas piston (aftermarket/variant), rotating bolt, semi‑automatic or select‑fire

gas-operated, tilting bolt

Single‑stage semi‑automatic trigger; military select‑fire models use a two‑stage fire selector with safe, semi, burst, and automatic modes

two-stage

Standard: detachable flip‑up rear iron sight and fixed front post; many models equipped with Picatinny rail for optical, holographic, or night sights

Iron sights