I am considering removing both the front sight and bayonet lug then shortening the barrel back to the step for the lug on a CCP made SKS. For anyone who has shortened an SKS barrel, what if any effect did the shorter barrel have on the gas system operation and group size?
Before someone asks, the reason for shortening the barrel is doing so gets rid of several of the pressed pin bore bulges and hopefully stiffens the barrel. The rifle is scoped, the mount - modified to finally be solid - has proved no need remains for a front sight, can't see it anyway. Also, this particular rifle wouldn't stay on the two foot square piece of cardboard for four shots at 100 yards. After lapping the barrel, bedding the receiver and the barrel under the very tip of the stock for-end, adding a rear receiver hold down screw and playing with handloads, it still has a third or fourth shot vertical flier. Usually high.