Still seems like too much for a crappy used Chinese rifle.
There are any number of new, really decent 7.62 x 39 rifles out there,
bolt action, not semi-auto. Ruger makes one that retails for under $400,
and a far better rifle than a crappy SKS. If you want a semi-auto, you
probably can find an AR upper in that caliber for $250-$300, and it,
too, will be a better rifle than the SKS.
The fixed magazine SKS might slip through some state laws if you take
the bayonet off. God know we need to stop this rash of bayonet charge
murders.