Introduced in 1958, the Type 58 is a direct descendant of the famous Kalashnikov assault rifle, developed with Soviet technical assistance. Originally manufactured from a combination of Korean and Soviet components, the Type 58 transitioned to full domestic manufacture as local expertise was built up. One of the North Korean's first home made weapons, the Type 58 was rolling off the lines about 5 years before the Type 63 (their version of the SKS Carbine, intended for issue to second-line militia units), a reversal from all other Soviet member states and allies. At heart, the 58 is very much an early pattern AK-47, including the early machined receiver with integral trunnion. Hooded post front and tangent rear sights, with the model nomenclature on the left side of the receiver, and matching numbers on the receiver, dust cover, bolt carrier, bolt and gas cylinder. Fitted with a smooth hardwood stock with a steel trapdoor buttplate.

Very good with strong traces of the blue finish, showing a mixed gray and brown patina overall. Some dents are present on the forearm hardware and the dust cover; a few of the latter have punched through the metal, but do not appear to impact function. The wood is good, with mild scuffs and dents. Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 478.