Two questions

[undeadpuppetshow]

Should I buy an SKS?
I am trying to find a good lever action rifle and bolt action rifle any suggestions?

 

[EODThree]

An SKS is neither a lever action or bolt action. If you are interested in a semi-auto, I recommend you look into an AK or an AR. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with a "detachable magazine" SKS but it wouldn't be my first choice.

I'm going to need quite a bit more information about your reasons for buying the weapons (hunting, plinking, varmints, paper) and how much money you're thinking of spending.

 

[undeadpuppetshow]

First, I was asking about the SKS because I was wanting another semi-auto and wanted an opinion on them since I found one for a couple hundred.
Second, I was wanting to get into hunting deer and coyote but don't have a proper gun for that. I want a lever action or bolt action because I don't own one at the moment and wanted one or the other for my collection. I am mainly just looking for something cheap and reliable, I don't want anything fancy.

 

[Phase2]

The SKS is a very solid rifle and if it is in good condition, is well worth "a couple hundred". Most will go in the $250-400 range depending on type and condition. AK47s use the same cartridge and are more popular, largely due to the detachable mags and generally go for $100-200 more. Both can take a lot of abuse and make good SHTF rifles.

Besides an external and basic function check, one key is to examine the bore. There is a fair amount of corrosive ammo still in use and you want to make sure it is not pitted. Most SKSes have chromed bores (except for the Yugoslavians/Yugos), so the bore should be shiny.

 

[JohnP82]

The SKS is nice. Good shooter, and can look pretty sweet. Personally I prefer the AK. Nothing wrong with the SKS though.

I don't have much experience with lever actions so I can't help any there.

I love a good bolt action though! Any specific caliber you were wanting? Any specific make or model you have your eye on?

 

[Wolfe28]

Second, I was wanting to get into hunting deer and coyote but don't have a proper gun for that. I want a lever action or bolt action because I don't own one at the moment and wanted one or the other for my collection. I am mainly just looking for something cheap and reliable, I don't want anything fancy.

Either would be fine, and I would recommend something like the Ruger 77-357 or 77-44 as a bolt gun. Less moving parts than a lever action (nothing against lever actions, a 357 lever is on my wish list), and you can drive light bullets very fast for coyotes and other varmints. Then, you can switch to a heavy, flat point projectile for deer hunting, and still have 100 yard capabilities (provided you do your part).

D