As far as the SKS goes, always go Russian. They are the best but they'll cost ya $. The SKS that uses normal AK mags is called a Norinco Sporter. Stay away from this gun, they're junk IMHO. There are a few good (factory made)AK riffles out right now, depending on how muh you want send determands what you should get. Saiga, Vepr-k, or Arsenal Inc (Bulgaria or Nevada) all make very nice and accurate 7.62 guns. Alot of it will come down to personal prefrence and money.