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The original SKS came with a fixed, non-detachable 10-round box magazine. With today’s aftermarket SKS mags, you can choose from 5, 10, 20, 30, 35, 40, or even 50-round drum options, all chambered in 7.62x39mm.
SKS Magazines
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SKS Magazines Collection
Whether you’re heading to the range for a long day of shooting or reaching for your SKS in a moment that counts, your magazine is not the place to cut corners. At The Mag Shack, we carry a carefully curated selection of SKS magazines for sale, from compact 5-round options to hard-hitting 50-round drums, so you can feed your rifle exactly the way you want to.
Fixed vs Detachable SKS Mag Options
The original SKS was built with a fixed, non-detachable 10-round box magazine. Loading was done by hand or using a stripper clip, a method that still holds nostalgic appeal for traditionalists.
The SKS clip system is simple and reliable, but it’s not exactly what most modern shooters are reaching for when high-capacity performance is the goal. That’s where detachable SKS mags changed the game entirely. Today’s aftermarket options allow you to swap magazines on the fly, dramatically improving reload speed and range versatility. Whether you prefer the nimble profile of a 20-round polymer mag or the raw capacity of an SKS drum mag, detachable options give your SKS a new dimension of capability without compromising the platform’s legendary reliability.
For hunters and those subject to state capacity limits, the 5-round SKS magazine remains a perfectly practical and fully legal option in most jurisdictions.
Standard Magazine Capacity and Specifications
All SKS magazines in our collection are chambered in 7.62x39mm, the original cartridge this rifle was designed around. Capacity options span the full spectrum:
- 5 Round – ideal for hunting or compliance in restrictive states
- 10 Round – mirrors the original fixed magazine capacity
- 20 Round – a balanced choice for range work and general use
- 30 Round – the most popular format; the SKS 30 round mag hits the sweet spot of capacity and handling
- 35 Round – extended reach for high-volume sessions
- 40 Round – serious range performance in a still manageable package
- 50-Round Drum – maximum firepower when you want to keep shooting without stopping
Top Magazine Brands and Models
Every SKS mag in our lineup comes from brands we trust and use ourselves. Two names dominate our SKS collection:
ProMag is the workhorse of the aftermarket magazine world, and its SKS lineup is no exception. From the entry-level ProMag SKS 7.62x39mm 5-Round Magazine to the high-capacity ProMag SKS 7.62×39 50-Round Drum Magazine, ProMag delivers consistent feeding, solid construction, and outstanding value. ProMag also offers Archangel LVX-compatible magazines for those running upgraded chassis systems.
Target Sports rounds out our selection with the Target Sports SKS 7.62×39 30-Round Magazine, a great option for those seeking a reliable aftermarket alternative to standard polymer offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard capacity of an SKS magazine?
Can a detachable magazine be installed instead of the fixed one?
Yes. Many SKS rifles can be converted to accept detachable magazines, which is exactly what makes the aftermarket options we carry so popular. Just verify that your specific SKS variant is compatible before ordering, as some configurations may not be.
Are AK-47 magazines and SKS magazines interchangeable??
No, SKS-specific magazines are required. Despite sharing the same 7.62x39mm caliber, AK-47 magazines are not compatible with the SKS platform. Always purchase magazines specifically listed for SKS rifles to ensure proper fit and reliable feeding.
Why do I keep seeing that the SKS has only a 10-round capacity?
The original SKS was designed with a non-detachable 10-round box magazine, which could either be hand-loaded or loaded with a stripper clip. Thankfully, we now have many detachable and high-capacity magazines to choose from.
Are SKS rifles still being made today?
SKS rifles are still being manufactured today; however, they are becoming more difficult to find new at the once low prices you would expect. Many sites have used options available that can help you save a few bucks and track down a classic SKS.
Is it legal to use extended-capacity magazines?
Magazine capacity laws vary significantly by location. Before purchasing any SKS magazine, research your local and state regulations. We always recommend staying informed on current laws, as they can change. Our 5-round SKS magazine is available for shooters in more restrictive jurisdictions.
Which magazines are most reliable - metal or polymer?
Both have their strengths. Polymer magazines are lighter and can handle impact well, but steel tends to win out in harsh conditions or high-cycle use. For most shooters, having a mix of both covers all the bases.