QBZ-95: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Chinese bullpup assault rifle}} |
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{{Infobox Weapon |
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{{Infobox weapon |
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|name= ''Qing Buqiang Zidong'' QBZ-95 Light Rifle Family |
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| name = Type 95 automatic rifle |
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|image=[[File:Rifle Type 95.jpg|300px|]] |
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| image = QBZ95 automatic rifle mod noBG.png |
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|caption= QBZ-95 |
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| image_size = 300 |
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|origin={{PRC}} |
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| caption = The QBZ-95 |
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|type= [[Assault rifle]] |
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| origin = China |
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|is_ranged=yes |
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| type = [[Bullpup]] [[assault rifle]]<br />[[Carbine]] (''QBZ-95B, QBZ-97B, QBZ-95B-1'')<br />[[Light support weapon]] (''QJB-95, QJB-97, QJB-95-1'')<br />[[Shotgun]] (''K12 PUMA'') |
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|service= [[1997]]<ref name="rifle">{{cite web |url=http://www.sinodefence.com/army/small_arms/qbz95.asp |title=QBZ95 5.8mm Automatic Weapons |publisher=SinoDefence.com |accessdate=2008-01-16}}</ref>-Present |
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<!-- Type selection -->| is_ranged = Yes |
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|used_by=See ''[[QBZ-95#Users|Users]]'' |
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<!-- Service history -->| service = 1997–present |
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|wars= [[Sri Lankan Civil War]]<br>[[2008 Cambodian-Thai stand-off]]<ref name="Bell, Thomas">{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/cambodia/3195213/Thailand-steps-back-in-confrontation-with-Cambodia-over-900-year-old-temple.html |title=Thailand steps back from Cambodia conflict |accessdate=2008-10-14 |author=Bell, Thomas |work=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |date=2008-10-15}}</ref> |
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| used_by = See ''[[#Users|Users]]'' |
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|designer= |
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| wars = [[Sri Lankan civil war|Sri Lankan Civil War]]<br />[[South Sudanese Civil War]]<ref>{{YouTube|iL5VQuNUkQM|One UN Peacekeeper from China Killed, Six Injured in South Sudan Mission}}{{better source needed|date=June 2024}}</ref><br />[[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)|War in Afghanistan]]<br />[[Insurgency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]<br />[[Myanmar conflict]]<br />[[Xinjiang conflict]] |
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|design_date= |
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<!-- Production history --> |
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|manufacturer=[[Norinco|China North Industries Corporation]] <br> and China South |
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| designer = Duo Yingxian<ref name="GAA">{{cite web |url=http://www.gunsandammo.com/military-law-enforcement/chinas-next-generation-bullpup-type-95/ |title=China's Next Generation Bullpup: Type 95 |date=29 November 2017 |access-date=2018-08-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803134048/http://www.gunsandammo.com/military-law-enforcement/chinas-next-generation-bullpup-type-95/ |archive-date=2018-08-03 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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|production_date=1995—present |
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| design_date = 1989–1991<ref name="GW">{{cite web|url=http://pewpewpew.work/china/rifle/qbz95/qbz95family.htm|title=QBZ-95 family|website=Guns' World|language=zh|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407054256/http://pewpewpew.work/china/rifle/qbz95/qbz95family.htm|archive-date=April 7, 2023}}</ref><ref name="81.cn">{{cite web|url=http://www.81.cn/jmywyl/2014-03/06/content_5798662.htm|title=Duoyingxian and his rifle|website=Chinese Military|language=zh-cn|access-date=2018-06-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180624010404/http://www.81.cn/jmywyl/2014-03/06/content_5798662.htm|archive-date=2018-06-24|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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|number= |
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| manufacturer = [[Norinco]] |
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|variants= QBZ-95B Carbine,</br> QBZ-95 Rifle,</br> [[QBB-95|QBB-95 LSW]],</br> QBZ-97 5.56 mm Rifle,</br> QBZ-97A 5.56 mm Rifle,</br> QBB-97 LSW 5.56 mm Rifle,</br> QBZ-97B 5.56 mm Carbine |
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| unit_cost = 4,300 Yuan (2014 cost to equip one PLA soldier)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://en.people.cn/n/2014/1206/c90000-8819167.html |title=How much does PLA soldier's individual equipment cost? - People's Daily Online |access-date=2019-03-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924033819/http://en.people.cn/n/2014/1206/c90000-8819167.html |archive-date=2018-09-24 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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|weight={{kg to lb|2.9|abbr=on|precision=1|wiki=yes}} (QBZ-95B Carbine) </br>{{kg to lb|3.25|abbr=on|precision=1|wiki=yes}} (QBZ-95 Rifle) </br>{{kg to lb|3.35|abbr=on|precision=1|wiki=yes}} (QBZ-97 Export) </br>{{kg to lb|3.9|abbr=on|precision=1|wiki=yes}} (QBB-95 LSW) |
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| production_date = 1995–present |
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|length={{mm to in|609|abbr=on|precision=1|wiki=yes}} (QBZ-95B Carbine)</br>{{mm to in|745|abbr=on|precision=1|wiki=yes}} (QBZ-95 Rifle) </br>{{mm to in|758|abbr=on|precision=1|wiki=yes}} (QBZ-97 and QBZ-97A) </br>{{mm to in|840|abbr=on|precision=1|wiki=yes}} (QBB-95 LSW) |
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| number = 3,000,000{{sfn|Jenzen-Jones|2017|p=25}} |
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|part_length={{convert|369|mm|abbr=on|1}} (QBZ-95B Carbine)</br>{{convert|463|mm|abbr=on|1}} (QBZ-95 Rifle) </br>{{convert|490|mm|abbr=on|1}} (QBZ-97 and QBZ-97A) </br>{{convert|600|mm|abbr=on|1}} (QBB-95 LSW) |
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| variants = See ''[[QBZ-95#Variants|Variants]]'' |
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|cartridge= [[5.8x42mm DBP87]] (QBZ-95), </br>[[5.56x45mm NATO]] (QBZ-97) |
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<!-- General specifications -->| weight = {{convert|3.25|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}} |
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|action= [[Gas-Operated]], [[Rotating bolt]] |
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| length = {{convert|745|mm|in|abbr=on}} |
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|rate= ~650 rounds/min (QBZ-95)</br>~800 rounds/min (QBZ-95B Carbine) |
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| part_length = {{convert|463|mm|abbr=on|1}} |
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|velocity= QBZ-95 - 930 m/s (3,050 ft/s), QBB-95 - 970 m/s (3181 ft/s), QBZ-95B - 790 m/s (2581 ft/s) |
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<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->| cartridge = [[5.8×42mm DBP87]] |
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|range= Rifle - 400m point target, 600m area target</br> LSW - 600m point target, 800m area target</br> Carbine - 300m point target, 500m area target |
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| action = [[Gas-Operated|Short-stroke piston]], [[rotating bolt]] |
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|feed= 30-round box [[magazine (firearm)|magazine]] </br>75-round [[Drum magazine|drum]] |
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| rate = c. 650 rounds/min |
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|sights= hooded post front sight and aperture rear sight, optional 4x telescopic sight |
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| velocity = 930 m/s (3,050 ft/s) |
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| range = {{convert|400|m|ft|abbr=on}} point target, {{convert|600-800|m|ft|abbr=on}} area target |
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| feed = 30-round detachable [[box magazine]]<br />75-round detachable [[Drum magazine|drum]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://world.guns.ru/machine/ch/type-95-lmg-e.html |title=Type 95 and 97 (QJB-95 and QJB-97) light machine guns (China) |date=27 October 2010 |publisher=Modern Firearms |access-date=23 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150103011007/http://world.guns.ru/machine/ch/type-95-lmg-e.html |archive-date=3 January 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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| sights = Hooded post front sight and aperture rear sight<br />Y/MA95 (3x)<br />Y/MA95-1 (3x)<br />QMK-152 (3x)<ref name="scope" /><br />QMK-171 (3x)<ref name="scope" /><br />IR5118 thermal scope (1x)<ref name="scope" /> |
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}} |
}} |
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The '''Type 95 automatic rifle''' ({{zh|c=95式自动步枪|p=95 Shì Zìdòng Bùqiāng}}) or '''QBZ-95''' is a [[bullpup]] [[assault rifle]] designed and manufactured by [[Norinco]], and issued since 1995 as the [[service rifle]] for the [[People's Liberation Army]], [[People's Armed Police]], and various [[paramilitary]] [[law enforcement in China|law enforcement agencies]] in the People's Republic of China. The rifle's designation "QBZ" stands for "'[[light weapon]]' (''Qīng Wŭqì'')—'rifle' (''Bùqiāng'')—'automatic' (''Zìdòng'')",<ref name="GAA"/> in keeping with the coding standards of the Chinese defense industry. |
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The '''QBZ-95''' ({{zh|c=轻武器,步枪,自动(简称95式), 1995|p=Qīngwuqi Bùqiāng--Zìdòng, 1995|l= Light weapon, Rifle, Automatic, 1995}}) is an [[assault rifle]] manufactured by Arsenal 266, part of [[Norinco]] and Arsenal 296, under Jianshe Corp, China South for the [[People's Liberation Army]], the armed forces of the [[People's Republic of China]], Chinese [[People's Armed Police]] (para-military police), and Chinese law enforcement. This weapon uses a newly-developed [[ammunition]] type of Chinese origin, the [[5.8x42mm DBP87]]. The QBZ-95 consists of a system of firearms using a common design. This family includes a [[carbine]] variant, a standard [[rifle]], and a [[light support weapon]].<ref name="file">{{cite journal |url=http://www.taiwantp.net/cgi/roadbbs.pl?board_id=1&type=show_post&post=817 |title=China's New 5.8x42mm Weapons Complex Revealed |author=Fortier, David M. |journal=Small Arms Review |year=2002 |month=September |volume=5 |issue=no. 12 |accessdate=2008-01-16}}</ref> |
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The QBZ-95 is the [[core product|flagship]] of the Type 95 gun family (95式枪族), a family of firearms sharing a common [[receiver (firearm)|receiver]] design, which includes a standard [[rifle]], a [[carbine]] and [[squad automatic weapon|squad automatic weapon (SAW)]] variants.<ref name="file">{{cite web|title=China's New 5.8x42mm Weapons Complex Revealed| date=September 2002 |url=https://www.smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=2321|access-date=2021-03-20|publisher=www.smallarmsreview.com|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326175012/https://smallarmsreview.com/chinas-new-5-8x42mm-weapons-complex-revealed/|archive-date=March 26, 2023}}</ref> It fires the [[5.8×42mm]] DBP87, an indigenous [[intermediate cartridge]]. |
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==Overview== |
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The QBZ-95 was first observed outside China in 1997, when the [[United Kingdom]] [[Transfer of sovereignty over Hong Kong|transferred the sovereignty]] of [[Hong Kong]] to the People's Republic of China. It is a modern weapon system in a [[bullpup]] configuration, where the weapon's action and magazine are located behind the grip and trigger assembly. The weapon was designed to replace the standard-issue [[Type 81 rifle]], which was similar in design to the [[AK-47]] series.<ref name="rifle"/> |
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An export version chambered for [[5.56×45mm NATO]], the QBZ-97, is used by various countries in Southeast Asia, South Asia and East Africa. |
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The rifle uses modern synthetic materials in its construction, fires a [[5.8x42mm DBP87|5.8x42mm]] small-caliber high-velocity bullet (in a class with the [[NATO]] standard [[5.56x45mm]] [[SS109]] and the Russian [[5.45x39mm]]), and employs a bullpup configuration like the British [[SA80]], French [[FAMAS]], Austrian [[Steyr AUG]]. |
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==Development== |
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==Technical aspects== |
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[[File:Rifle Type 95.jpg|thumb|left|The QBZ-95 (original version, no longer being produced)]] |
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[[Image:061117-M-9827H-139.jpg|left|thumb|U.S. and PLA (N) Marines of the 1st Marine Brigade fire the QBZ-95 Assault Rifle during an exchange exercise.]] |
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The Chinese military started to develop small-caliber weapons in 1971.<ref name="81.cn" /> The [[Type 81 assault rifle#Variants|Type 87]], a modification based on the [[Type 81 assault rifle]], was developed in the 1980s and entered limited service in 1987. The Chinese military continued to search for a new small-caliber design after Type 87. Bullpup configurations were also experimented with in the early 1980s, resulting in the WTC-1 and WTC-2 bullpup prototypes in 1983<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gearkr.com/?p=60121 |title=无托枪发展简述(二)——中国无托枪发展 |website=gearkr|trans-title=A Sketch Small Arms Developments (2)- China's Small Arms Development|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160905234613/http://gearkr.com/?p=60121|archive-date=September 5, 2016}}</ref> and the [[Type 86S|Type 86]] bullpup rifle in 1986. In 1989, the [[People's Liberation Army]] requested that [[Norinco]] develop a new family of small-caliber firearms with improved reliability and accuracy, adaptability to different roles, and configurability to different tactical applications.<ref name="GW" /> The rifle was subcontracted to Norinco's Arsenal 266 and Jianshe Corporation's Arsenal 296.<ref name="sadj">[http://sadefensejournal.com/wp/?p=2135 PLA Type 95 Rifle: Breaking with Convention] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029190705/http://sadefensejournal.com/wp/?p=2135 |date=2013-10-29 }} – SAdefensejournal.com, 21 October 2013</ref> |
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Duo Yingxian, who is credited for the design of QBZ-95, was recruited to serve as the project head in 1991.<ref name="81.cn" /> He was given four years for the development. Two years were spent on the design, alongside two years of field tests.<ref name="GAA"/> Initial production started in 1995. |
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Though there have been hints of the ''97'' variants being involved in some foreign conflicts,<ref>http://defencewire.blogspot.com/2007/11/lttes-rare-infantry-weapons.html</ref> little has been reported about its overall combat effectiveness. It has been at least shown in televised tests, however, that the weapon can continue to function after being immersed in water,<ref name="QBZ95">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PjUIVCHLz4 QBZ95 Chinese news segment] Retrieved on May 24, 2008.</ref> as well as other harsh environmental conditions.<ref name="QBZ95 tests">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18QnvX4g_Mo&feature=channel_page QBZ95 submitted through a battery of tests on CCTV]Retrieved on September 28, 2009</ref> What is also known is that the weapon operates using a short-stroke [[gas operated]] [[rotating-bolt]] system, similar to most modern military rifles. |
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The QBZ-95 was first observed outside China on 1 July 1997, when the United Kingdom [[Transfer of sovereignty over Hong Kong|transferred the sovereignty]] of Hong Kong to the People's Republic of China.<ref name="sadj"/><ref name="T95">{{cite web | url=https://modernfirearms.net/en/assault-rifles/china-assault-rifles/type-95-qbz-95-eng/ | title=Type 95 / QBZ-95 assault rifle (China) | date=27 October 2010 }}</ref> It is a modern weapon system in a bullpup configuration, where the weapon's action and magazine are located behind the grip and trigger assembly. The weapon was designed to replace the standard-issue Type 81 assault rifle. The QBZ-95 had replaced the Type 81 in frontline units by 2006, and is gradually replacing it in second-line units and the [[People's Armed Police]].<ref name="sadj"/> |
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The selector switch on the rifle has four settings. The selector settings are as follows: "'''0'''" for safe, "'''1'''" for "[[Semi-automatic firearm|semi-automatic]]", "'''2'''" for [[fully automatic]], and "'''3'''" for [[Burst mode (firearm)|three round burst]] setting.<ref name="QBZ-95">{{cite web |url=http://www.enemyforces.com/firearms/qbz95.htm |title=Type 95 |accessdate=2008-01-16 |work=Firearms |publisher=EnemyForces.com}}</ref> |
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An improved version called the "QBZ-95-1" was first seen undergoing trials in early 2010. The first formal public display of the improved version was with the [[Hong Kong Garrison]], the first unit to receive the original QBZ-95, in a military parade in July 2012. Some improvements were ergonomic, with the safety switch moved to above the pistol grip and the right-sided ejection port moved forward with ejection of cartridges at an angle to allow left-handed firing. Unlike previous DBP87 and DBP85 5.8×42mm rounds, it fires better-quality DBP10 ammunition with non-corrosive primers, clean-burning propellant, and copper-coated steel casings with copper-alloy-jacketed hardened steel-cored bullets. |
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The Chinese have tested their new cartridge extensively against both the 5.56x45mm [[SS109]] and the Russian 5.45x39mm [[5N7]]. They claim their 5.8x42mm outperforms both cartridges with penetration superior to the SS109, a flatter trajectory, and a higher retained velocity and energy downrange.<ref name="file"/><ref>{{cite journal |title=The 5.8x42mm |journal=Guns & Ammo |month=Combat Arms |year=2006 |publisher=Intermedia Outdoors}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |title=Chinese 5.8mm Small Arms Ammo |author=Yan, Timothy G. |journal=Small Arms Review |month=June |year=2006 |volume=9 |issue=no. 9 |page=42}}</ref> |
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The QBZ-95-1 has a longer, heavier barrel and redesigned [[muzzle brake]], a diamond-shaped cross-section on the [[handguard]] to disperse heat, a stronger [[buttstock]] and a redesigned [[trigger guard]]. The carrying handle was lowered to better position [[sight (device)#Optical sights|optics]] on the quick-releasable modified [[dovetail rail]], and a pair of short rails at the sight's base allows for tactical accessories to be mounted.<ref name="sadj"/> Some Chinese special forces have been seen equipped with customized QBZ-95-1 rifle variants. |
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==Design features== |
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[[Image:Photoessay 2007-03 hires 070324-F-0193C-037.JPG|left|thumb|[[Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff]] General [[Peter Pace]] [[United States Marine Corps|USMC]] shakes hands with Chinese tanker soldiers with a QBZ-95]] |
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The design of the QBZ-95 is completely new with little resemblance to any of the previous Chinese designs. Thanks to the low recoil impulse of the small caliber ammunition and a very complex recoil buffer system, the rifle is claimed to be more controllable in automatic fire<ref>http://defencewire.blogspot.com/2007/11/lttes-rare-infantry-weapons.html</ref>. The aim was to develop an assault rifle based around the [[5.8x42mm DBP87|5.8x42mm]] round, with specifications of being accurate and reliable. After extensive trials, data was produced showing that the system produces accuracy comparable to the American M-16A3 with reliability of that to the Russian AK-74. Field trials showed that the system along with the smaller round, retained a flatter trajectory path than both the 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm round at distances of 400-500m |
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== |
==Design== |
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===Technical aspects=== |
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[[Image:Peter Pace shakes hands with a Chinese soldier (Shenyang Base, China, March 24 2007).jpg|left|thumb|[[Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff]] General [[Peter Pace]] [[United States Marine Corps|USMC]] shakes hands with a Chinese tank crew member who holds a QBZ-95]] |
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The rifle uses polymer materials in its construction, fires a [[5.8×42mm DBP87|5.8×42mm]] small-caliber, high-velocity bullet (in a class with the [[NATO]] standard [[5.56×45mm]] [[SS109]] and the Russian [[5.45×39mm]]), and employs a bullpup configuration similar to the British [[SA80]], French [[FAMAS]], Austrian [[Steyr AUG]], South African [[Vektor CR-21]], Israeli [[Tavor]] and the Singaporean [[SAR-21]]. |
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Though there have been hints of the ''97'' variants being involved in some foreign conflicts,<ref name="LTTE">{{cite web|date=2018-08-12|title=Chinese Arms in LTTE Hands – Sri Lanka Guardian|url=https://www.slguardian.org/chinese-arms-in-ltte-hands/|access-date=2021-03-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180812083234/https://www.slguardian.org/chinese-arms-in-ltte-hands/|archive-date=2018-08-12}}</ref> little has been reported about its overall combat effectiveness. It has been shown in televised tests that the weapon can continue to function after being immersed in water,<ref name="QBZ95">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PjUIVCHLz4 QBZ95 Chinese news segment] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160410040835/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PjUIVCHLz4 |date=2016-04-10 }} Retrieved on May 24, 2008.</ref> as well as other harsh environmental conditions.<ref name="QBZ95 tests">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18QnvX4g_Mo QBZ95 submitted through a battery of tests on CCTV] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160505152816/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18QnvX4g_Mo |date=May 5, 2016 }} Retrieved on September 28, 2009</ref> What is also known is that the weapon operates using a short-stroke [[gas operated]] [[rotating-bolt]] system, similar to most modern military rifles. |
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Magazines are inserted into the magazine well, which is located to the rear of the pistol grip. The magazine is inserted front-first into the well so that the notch on the front of the magazine is retained in the well. The magazine is then "rocked" into place by rotating the rear of the magazine upwards into the well (in a manner similar to the [[AK-47]] series) until the magazine release to the rear of the well is engaged. To release the magazine, the magazine release is pressed rearward, and the magazine pivoted forward and disengaged from the front recess. |
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The selector switch on the rifle has four settings. The selector settings are as follows: "0" for safe, "1" for [[Semi-automatic firearm|semi-automatic]], "2" for [[fully automatic]] and, on selected models, "3" for a [[Burst mode (firearm)|three-round burst]] setting.<ref name="QBZ-95">{{cite web |url=http://www.enemyforces.com/firearms/qbz95.htm |title=Type 95 |access-date=2008-01-16 |work=Firearms |publisher=EnemyForces.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071009145938/http://www.enemyforces.com/firearms/qbz95.htm |archive-date=2007-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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The charging handle is located under the integral carrying handle. To chamber a round and charge the weapon, this handle is pulled fully to the rear and then released forward to bring a round into the chamber. It is then ready to fire. Reloading the weapon after emptying a magazine requires this procedure to be repeated, as there is no bolt hold open feature. |
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The Chinese Army says it has tested its 5.8×42mm cartridge extensively against NATO's 5.56×45mm and its counterpart, the 5.45×39mm from Russia. The PLA claims their cartridge outperforms both with flatter trajectories, and higher retention of velocities and energy downrange. It is also claimed to have a penetration superior to the 5.56×45mm NATO.<ref name="file"/><ref>{{cite journal |title=The 5.8x42mm |journal=Guns & Ammo |date=2006 |publisher=Intermedia Outdoors}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |title=Chinese 5.8mm Small Arms Ammo |author=Yan, Timothy G. |journal=Small Arms Review |date=June 2006 |volume=9 |issue= 9 |page=42}}</ref> |
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==Design issues== |
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===Ammunition=== |
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Some experts are concerned over the awkward position of the safety lever near the end of the rifle away from the shooter's hand.<ref name="QBZ-95"/> This position makes it difficult to quickly select "fire" when it is in "safe" mode. |
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[[File:Десантирование участников конкурса "Эльбрусское кольцо" с вертолетов Ми-8 с последующим совершением горного марша (18).jpg|left|thumb|Two PLAGF soldiers with their QBZ-95s march through mountainous terrain, during Elbrus Ring international competition]] |
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The design of the QBZ-95 is completely new with little resemblance to any of the previous Chinese designs. Thanks to the low recoil impulse of the small caliber ammunition and a recoil buffer system, the rifle is claimed to be more controllable in automatic fire.<ref name="LTTE"/> The aim was to develop an assault rifle based around the 5.8×42mm round, with specifications of being accurate and reliable. |
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===Operation=== |
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Magazines are inserted into the magazine well, which is located to the rear of the pistol grip. The magazine is inserted front-first into the well so that the notch on the front of the magazine is retained in the well. The magazine is then "rocked" into place by rotating the rear of the magazine upwards into the well (in a manner similar to the [[AK-47]] series) until the magazine latch to the rear of the well is engaged. To release the magazine, the magazine release is pressed rearward, and the magazine pivoted forward and disengaged from the front recess. |
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The QBZ-95 uses a linear striker-firing mechanism, where a spring-loaded firing pin and linear hammer fires the chambered cartridge; most post-World War II military rifles use a rotating hammer firing mechanism. The firing mechanism and trigger are inspired by the [[vz. 58]], but with noticeable differences. The QBZ-95's striker piece has a more complex shape. Furthermore, the QBZ-95 uses in-line main and striker springs using the same spring guide rod, instead of two parallel springs.<ref name="QBZ-95_machine">{{cite web |url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2015/04/27/qbz-95-bullpups-action-works/ |title=How the QBZ-95 bullpup's action works |work=thefirearmblog |date=27 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180717071014/https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2015/04/27/qbz-95-bullpups-action-works/ |archive-date=2018-07-17 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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The charging handle is located under the integral carrying handle, similar to early versions of the [[AR-10]]. To chamber a round and charge the weapon, the handle is pulled fully to the rear and then released forward to bring a round into the chamber. It is then ready to fire. On the later variants, if the bolt is held open, the charging handle will be locked in the rear position under the carrying handle. One can either use the finger to pull the charging handle to the rear fully or press the bolt release button located behind the magazine latch to release the bolt, one feature the previous design lacks.<ref name="95-1" /> |
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===Ergonomics=== |
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[[File:Multinational VBSS Exercise at RIMPAC 160714-N-MV764-001.jpg|thumb|Chinese Navy sailor holding a QBZ-95B short-barrel carbine during a [[Visit, board, search, and seizure|VBSS]] exercise at [[Exercise RIMPAC|RIMPAC]]]] |
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Some experts are concerned over the awkward position of the safety lever near the end of the rifle away from the shooter's hand.<ref name="QBZ-95"/> This position makes it difficult to quickly select "fire" when it is in "safe" mode. This is resolved on the "G" (''Gai'', 改; literally: 'modified') variant (QBZ-95-1) where the fire selector switch is repositioned above the pistol grip, giving it a thumb fire selector switch for easy firing mode transition.<ref name="95-1" /> |
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The QBZ-95-1 has a redesigned recoil buffer and reportedly feels gentler when fired.<ref name="QBZ-95_machine" /> |
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==Accessories== |
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===Grenade launchers=== |
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The QBZ-95 can launch [[rifle grenade]]s from the barrel using blank ammunition. It can also mount the [[Type 91 grenade launcher|QLG-91B]] (Type 91B) under-barrel grenade launcher. This 35 mm launcher weighs {{convert|1.45|kg|lb|abbr=on}} and is {{convert|310|mm|in|abbr=on}} long. It loads from the breech and fires grenades at {{convert|75|m/s|ft/s|abbr=on}}. Various lethal and non-lethal rounds are available including high explosive, tear gas, and illumination. |
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Other options include the [[QLG-10]] and [[QLG-10]]A 35 mm grenade launchers, which both can be mounted on the QBZ-95-1, QBZ-95-1, and QBZ-95B-1.<ref name="sadj"/> The QLG-10/A is the same length and weighs the same as the QLG91B, but differs in that it fires [[caseless ammunition]]. It is modeled after the Russian [[GP-25]] and fires DFS-10 grenades. The DFS-10 has the same caseless design as the Russian VOG-25 where the base of the round is the propellant and nothing is left in the barrel after firing. The QLG10A launcher is loaded from its muzzle and the shell has pre-engraved rifling for added stabilization. It is aimed with iron sights mounted to the left above the barrel, but a [[red dot sight]] can be installed over the sight base. |
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The DFS-10 round weighs {{convert|169|g|oz|abbr=on}}, has a velocity of {{convert|78|m/s|ft/s|abbr=on}}, and has an effective range of {{convert|430|m|ft|abbr=on}}. Warheads include high explosive fragmentation, high explosive dual-purpose, inert practice, and less-lethal riot control versions.<ref>[http://www.gunsandweapons.net/qlg-10/ QLG-10] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224084301/http://www.gunsandweapons.net/qlg-10/ |date=2013-12-24 }} – Gunsandweapons.net, 12 September 2013</ref> |
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===Bayonet=== |
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The QBZ-95 can be mounted with the Type 87 bayonet, which is based on the M9 bayonet.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nirvi.fi/nnbm/page313.html |title=Type 95 |access-date=2018-08-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180807083123/http://www.nirvi.fi/nnbm/page313.html |archive-date=2018-08-07 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://worldbayonets.com/Bayonet_Identification_Guide/China/China_2.html |title=Bayonets of China |access-date=2018-08-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803163542/http://worldbayonets.com/Bayonet_Identification_Guide/China/China_2.html |archive-date=2018-08-03 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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===Sights=== |
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Soldiers can mount optical sights for their rifles, due to a [[dovetail rail]] built into the carrying handle. The QBZ-95 can also use YMA95 and YMA95-1 scopes.<ref>{{cite web|title=CN106197147A(12)發明專利申請|url=https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/45/a4/8b/9ef9389dbca64f/CN106197147A.pdf|language=zh|trans-title=CN106197147A(12) Invention Patent Application|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230420065557/https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/45/a4/8b/9ef9389dbca64f/CN106197147A.pdf|archive-date=April 20, 2023}}</ref> |
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QBZ-95 and QBZ-95–1 series rifles can also be fitted with improved QMK-171 3x scopes. The QMK-171 shares the same design as the QMK-152 scope fitted with the [[QBZ-191]], though the QMK-152 only fits on [[picatinny rail]]s, whereas the QMK-171 has quick-lock lever for dovetail rails.<ref name="scope">{{cite web|url= https://www.sohu.com/a/430818713_100191046 |title= 我军95步枪喜提全新瞄准镜 还用上这项黑科技(图) |date=10 November 2020|language=Chinese |website=Sohu News|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210426012942/https://www.sohu.com/a/430818713_100191046|archive-date=April 26, 2021|trans-title=Our Army's Fondly Loved Type 95 Rifle Gets an All-New Sighting System. Still a Top-Secret Technology (With Figures)}}</ref> |
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===Picatinny rail=== |
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The carrying handle can be mounted with a short [[picatinny rail]], as well as be swapped to new upper receiver with customization capabilities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.techthisoutamerica.com/enter-chinas-new-laser-gun-rifle/type-95-qbz95-5-8x42mm-assault-rifle-carbine-picatinny-rail-a-qbz-97-export-peoples-liberation-army-armed-forces-china-chinese-peoples-armed-police-para-military-police-light-support-w-17/|title=Type 95 QBZ95 5.8x42mm Assault Rifle Carbine Picatinny rail}}{{Dead link|date=June 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2017/07/25/qbz-95-1-enters-picatinny-age/|title=QBZ 95-1 Enters the Picatinny Age|date=25 July 2017|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405233814/https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2017/07/25/qbz-95-1-enters-picatinny-age/|archive-date=April 5, 2023}}</ref> |
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Most of the picatinny rail modifications for the Type 95 were designed by Wang Jie ({{zh|s=王杰}}) and Hong Kong weapon designer Lee Ka Ho ({{zh|t=李家豪}}). The ACP Peak series by Lee has a flat-top rail system while "Long Bow" ({{zh|长弓}}) modifications from Wang Jie retain the shape of the carrying handle. Both modifications are fielded within the Chinese police force and People's Liberation Army.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://pewpewpew.work/china/rifle/qbz95/upgrad.htm |title=Type 95 upgrade and mods |website=Guns’ World|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407030839/http://pewpewpew.work/china/rifle/qbz95/upgrad.htm|archive-date=April 7, 2023}}</ref> |
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==Variants== |
==Variants== |
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{{More citations needed section|date=November 2022}} |
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=== Military variants === |
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===QBZ-95 ( |
====QBZ-95 (rifle)==== |
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This is the Chinese standard-issue version of the rifle, chambered for the 5.8×42mm DBP87 round.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chinese 5.8mm Infantry Small Arms Ammunition|url=https://www.smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=1684|access-date=2021-03-20|website=www.smallarmsreview.com| date=June 2006|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407131048/https://smallarmsreview.com/chinese-5-8mm-infantry-small-arms-ammunition/|archive-date=April 7, 2023 }}</ref> |
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This is the standard version of the rifle used domestically, chambered for the [[5.8x42mm DBP87]] round. |
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Due to issues associated with the original design, the PLA began a program to improve the Type 95. |
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The PLA has reportedly undertaken a program to improve the Type 95. The lead designer of the Type 95 program Duo Yingxian(朵英贤), who's now retired, has stated that the project is being worked on by some of his students. Known goals for the program are to: |
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Lead designer Duo Yingxian (朵英贤), now retired, stated that the project was currently in progress by some of his students.<ref name="GAA"/> |
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1. Improve the rifle's ergonomics/controls.<br> |
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2. Chamber it for new ammunition with double the effective range.<br> |
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3. Add a quick-firing grenade launcher. <ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tacticalgunfan.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=514&Itemid=1 |title=PLA Moves Its Assault Rifle To Next Level |work=TacticalGunFan |date=2009-04-13 |accessdate=2000-04-14}}</ref><br> |
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[[File:Qbz95B.jpg|thumb|QBZ-95B Carbine]] |
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The goals for the Type 95 upgrade program include the following:<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tacticalgunfan.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=514&Itemid=1 |title=PLA Moves Its Assault Rifle To Next Level |work=TacticalGunFan |date=2009-04-13 |access-date=2009-04-16 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090416063442/http://www.tacticalgunfan.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=514&Itemid=1 |archive-date=April 16, 2009 }}</ref> |
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===QBZ-95B (Carbine)=== |
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This is a shorter and lighter version of the standard rifle. From pictures seen the QBZ-95B is seen issued only to Naval Officers, possibly due to the limited room in Naval vessels that would prohibit the full length rifle being used in close quarters. |
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[[File:QBB LSW-95.jpg|thumb|QBB-95 LSW]] |
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* To improve the rifle's ergonomics and fire controls |
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===QBB-95 LSW (Light Support Weapon)=== |
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* To chamber the rifle for a new type of ammunition with double the effective range |
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This light support weapon fulfills the role as the squad machine gunner. It's in the same respect as the QBZ-95 Rifle with modified longer and heavier barrel, higher firing rate, heavier cartridge and is equipped with larger 75-round [[drum magazine]]. |
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* To add a quick-firing, domestically produced grenade launcher |
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[[File:QBZ-97.jpg|thumb|QBZ-97A]] |
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The upgrade program resulted in the improved QBZ-95-1 variant. |
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===QBZ-97 (5.56 mm Assault Rifle)=== |
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The Chinese have constructed an export version, the QBZ-97, which is similar to the QBZ-95 in all respects except that it is chambered for 5.56 mm NATO instead of the original Chinese 5.8 mm cartridge and has a deep magazine well designed to accept [[STANAG magazine]]s. |
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===QBZ- |
====QBZ-95B (carbine)==== |
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[[File:QBZ95B short assault rifles 20170902.jpg|thumb|A QBZ-95B with a shortened barrel]] |
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This is a shorter and lighter version of the standard rifle. From pictures seen, the QBZ-95B is seen issued only to naval officers, most likely due to the limited room in naval vessels that would preclude the full length rifle being used in close quarters. Its shorter barrel prevents a grenade launcher or bayonet from being attached, and it has an AKS-74U style muzzle booster. |
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The carbine may also be in use with special forces.<ref name="sadj"/> It lacks a forend and instead has a foregrip, with the front iron sight built into the carrying handle.<ref name="QBZ-95"/> |
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This variant is a QBZ-97 with the addition of a 3-round [[Burst mode (firearm)|burst mode]] and a bolt hold-open device; it also differs from the QBZ-95 and the QBZ-97 for the shape of its grip, now missing the "front grip" part in front of the trigger guard. This weapon is the only QBZ-95 variant to have seen commercial success and military use outside of China; QBZ-97A rifles are in use by [[911 Special Forces]] of [[Cambodia]] Special Operations personnel.<ref name="Bell, Thomas"/><ref name="gun-world.net">{{cite web |url=http://www.gun-world.net/china/rifle/qbz97/qbz97.htm |title=QBZ97自动步枪 |accessdate=2008-01-16}}</ref>. |
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=== |
====QJB-95 light support weapon (LSW)==== |
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[[File:Machine gun Type95.jpg|thumb|A QJB-95 LSW with a drum magazine and bipod]] |
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This is the carbine version of the QBZ-97. The official distributor of the QBZ-97B assault carbine on the international market, ''Jianshe Industries (Group) Corporation'', advertises and sells it under the denomination "5.56mm Short Automatic Rifle Type NQZ03B (97)".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.qq.com/a/20080416/002588.htm |title=Jianshe Industries NQZ-03B brochure pictures}}</ref> |
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The QJB-95 is the [[squad automatic weapon]] variant of the QBZ-95. The designation "QJB" stands for "''Qingwuqi, Jiqiang, Banyong''", which means 'light weapon/small arm, machine gun, squad-use'. It has an added bipod, a longer, heavier barrel and a 75 or 80-round drum magazine to allow sustained fire, however, the standard 30-round box magazine is also compatible. |
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Although the QJB-95 and QBZ-95 both take the standard [[5.8×42mm DBP87]] round, the QJB-95 typically uses the [[5.8×42mm#5.8×42mm cartridge variants|5.8x42mm DBP88]] "heavy round" squad automatic weapon and [[designated marksman rifle]] cartridges, which have longer, deeper armor penetration and greater ballistics' capabilities at long range. As using the heavy rounds in a QBZ-95 would greatly wear the barrel in action, normal cartridges are used in QBZ-95 rifles. |
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===QBB-97 LSW (5.56 mm Light Support Weapon)=== |
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The light support weapon model of the QBZ-97. |
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However, with the fielding of the QBZ-95-1 variant, newer and heavier DBP10 cartridges are planned to become the standard ammunition for both weapons. |
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===Civilian Variants=== |
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Two sporterized, semi-automatic only rifles based upon the QBZ-97A assault rifle and the QBZ-97B assault carbine have been developed for the civilian market, the '''Type 97''' rifle and the '''Type 97A''' carbine. The rifles became available in [[Canada]] in 2008 and were classified as Restricted. In January 2009, a shipment of a non-restricted version of the rifle was approved by the [[RCMP]] for retail sale, but later confiscated and seized by [[Canada Border Services Agency|CBSA officers]].<ref>http://www.canadaammo.com/news.php</ref> |
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====QBZ-97 (5.56 mm)==== |
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They chamber the [[.223 Remington]] cartridge and are fed by [[STANAG magazine]]s.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2008/08/17/type-97-chinese-semi-auto-qbz-97-bullpup-coming-to-canada/ |title=Type 97 (Chinese semi-auto QBZ-97 bullpup) coming to Canada |work=The Firearm Blog |date=2008-08-17 |accessdate=2008-10-28}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.canadaammo.com/product.php?productid=25&cat=0&page=1 |title=Norinco Type-97 Rifle, 5.56mm |publisher=CanadaAmmo.com |accessdate=2008-10-28}}</ref> |
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[[File:Bodyguard Unit soldier - Cambodia.jpg|thumb|A soldier from the Cambodian Prime Minister's Bodyguard Unit equipped with QBZ-97]] |
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The QBZ-97 is an export version similar to the QBZ-95 in all respects, except that it is chambered for 5.56×45mm NATO ammunition and has a deep magazine well designed to accept [[STANAG magazine]]s.<ref name="T95"/> This rifle is currently used by Ginghis Security Academy, a Chinese private security group, supplementing their QBZ-95s.<ref>[http://www.tebao.net/imgs.aspx?id=1 中国·红色盾牌·天骄特卫] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120817113349/http://www.tebao.net/imgs.aspx?id=1 |date=August 17, 2012 }}</ref> |
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====QBZ-97A (5.56 mm assault rifle)==== |
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This variant is a QBZ-97 with the addition of a three-round [[Burst mode (firearm)|burst mode]] and a bolt hold-open device;<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.gunsandammo.com/editorial/chinas-assault-rifle-qbz95/247975 | title=China's Assault Rifle: QBZ95 | date=15 November 2017 }}</ref> it also differs from the QBZ-95 and the QBZ-97 by the shape of its grip, now missing the "front grip" part in front of the trigger guard. |
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====QBZ-97B (5.56 mm carbine)==== |
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This is the carbine version of the QBZ-97. The official distributor of the QBZ-97B assault carbine on the international market, Jianshe Industries (Group) Corporation, advertises and sells it under the denomination "5.56mm short automatic rifle Type NQZ03B (97)".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.qq.com/a/20080416/002588.htm |title=Jianshe Industries NQZ-03B brochure pictures |access-date=2009-09-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080420165103/http://news.qq.com/a/20080416/002588.htm |archive-date=2008-04-20 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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====QJB-97 LSW (5.56 mm light support weapon)==== |
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The light support weapon model of the QBZ-97 is chambered for 5.56×45mm NATO ammo. |
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====QBZ-95-1 (rifle)==== |
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[[File:QBZ-95-1 automatic rifle 20220203.jpg|thumb|right|QBZ-95-1 automatic rifle]] |
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The new QBZ-95-1, also called the QBZ-95 "Gai" ("改"; literally: 'modified'), addresses several reliability and ease-of-use issues, and has improved ergonomics.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2010/09/07/chinas-new-service-rifle-qbz-95g/|title=China's new service rifle: QBZ-95G – The Firearm Blog|work=The Firearm Blog|date=7 September 2010|access-date=23 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112110104/http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2010/09/07/chinas-new-service-rifle-qbz-95g/|archive-date=12 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="GAA"/> |
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The QBZ-95 variant titled "1" fires the heavier [[5.8×42mm|5.8×42mm DBP10]] round,<ref>{{cite web|last=Yan|first=Timothy|date=2020-09-15|title=China's 5.8x42mm Rifle Cartridge - How Good Is It?|url=https://www.firearmsnews.com/editorial/chinas-58x42mm-rifle-cartridge-how-good-is-it/384452|access-date=2021-03-20|website=Firearms News|language=en|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230331070310/https://www.firearmsnews.com/editorial/chinas-58x42mm-rifle-cartridge-how-good-is-it/384452|archive-date=March 31, 2023}}</ref> and has a heavier, longer barrel and a redesigned muzzle brake to use it. The "1" variant has an altered butt stock, trigger guard, and a repositioned thumb fire selector switch above the pistol grip. The carrying handle has retained the Chinese quick release mount rail. In addition, cartridge casings eject to the front (1 o'clock position from the barrel) of the weapon, allowing left-handed firing. Also, there is a bolt release button located behind the magazine latch.<ref name="95-1">{{cite web|url=http://china-defense.blogspot.ca/2012/07/type95qbz95-1-58x42mm-assault-rifle.html|title=China Defense Blog|author=Coatepeque|date=4 July 2012|access-date=23 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141223230100/http://china-defense.blogspot.ca/2012/07/type95qbz95-1-58x42mm-assault-rifle.html|archive-date=23 December 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> It was observed undergoing testing and evaluation in early 2010. |
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It was later introduced into service, replacing the original QBZ-95 assault rifle. The original QBZ-95 rifles are being handed down to second line and reserve troops, while front line troops receive the QBZ-95-1.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/mil/2010-03/22/content_13219688.htm|title=ýйƻƳ95Gвǹ_»_»|access-date=23 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110610034320/http://news.xinhuanet.com/mil/2010-03/22/content_13219688.htm|archive-date=10 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chinareviewnews.com/doc/1012/6/5/0/101265003.html?coluid=0&kindid=0&docid=101265003&mdate=0320110332|title=中國評論新聞:外媒:中國將推95G式新型自動步槍|access-date=23 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923222106/http://www.chinareviewnews.com/doc/1012/6/5/0/101265003.html?coluid=0&kindid=0&docid=101265003&mdate=0320110332|archive-date=23 September 2015|url-status=live|trans-title=China Review News: Foreign News: China's Push of the New Type 95G Automatic Rifle}}</ref> |
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The QBZ-95-1 is scheduled to be replaced in the near future by a new assault rifle known as the "QBZ-191".<ref name="RifleAT">{{cite web|last=Makichuk|first=Dave|date=2020-04-22|title=QBZ-191: Meet China's new assault rifle|url=https://asiatimes.com/2020/04/china-fields-traditional-assault-rifle-in-qbz-191/|access-date=2021-03-20|website=Asia Times|language=en-US|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230305073056/https://asiatimes.com/2020/04/china-fields-traditional-assault-rifle-in-qbz-191/|archive-date=March 5, 2023}}</ref> |
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[[File:95B-1 short assault rifle 20220203.jpg|thumb|right|95B-1 short assault rifle]] |
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====QBZ-95B-1 (carbine)==== |
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Improved version of the QBZ-95B with barrel and ergonomic enhancements of the QBZ-95-1 in the carbine platform.<ref name="sadj"/><ref name="gunsworld">{{cite web|url=http://www.gunsworld.net/china/rifle/qbz95/qbz951.htm |title=95-1枪族 ——〖枪炮世界〗 |access-date=October 26, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120701200450/http://www.gunsworld.net/china/rifle/qbz95/qbz951.htm |archive-date=July 1, 2012 }} (Chinese text)</ref> |
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====QJB-95-1 light support weapon (LSW)==== |
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An improved version of the QJB-95 LSW with the ergonomic enhancements of the QBZ-95-1 in a squad machine gun platform.<ref name="sadj"/><ref name="gunsworld"/> |
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===Civilian variants=== |
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[[File:Stock T97NSR.jpg|thumb|T97NSR made by Norinco for the Canadian civilian market]] |
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Two sporterized, semi-automatic-only rifles based upon the QBZ-97A assault rifle and the QBZ-97B assault carbine have been developed for the civilian market, the Type 97 rifle and the Type 97A carbine. They are chambered for the [[.223 Remington]] and [[5.56mm]] cartridge and are fed by [[STANAG magazine]]s.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2008/08/17/type-97-chinese-semi-auto-qbz-97-bullpup-coming-to-canada/ |title=Type 97 (Chinese semi-auto QBZ-97 bullpup) coming to Canada |work=The Firearm Blog |date=2008-08-17 |access-date=2008-10-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081203232716/http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2008/08/17/type-97-chinese-semi-auto-qbz-97-bullpup-coming-to-canada/ |archive-date=2008-12-03 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.canadaammo.com/product.php?productid=25&cat=0&page=1 |title=Norinco Type-97 Rifle, 5.56mm |publisher=CanadaAmmo.com |access-date=2008-10-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081019212449/http://www.canadaammo.com/product.php?productid=25&cat=0&page=1 |archive-date=2008-10-19 }}</ref> |
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Type 97A carbines became available in Canada in 2008, were classified as "non-restricted" by the [[Royal Canadian Mounted Police]] (RCMP), and sold to the general public. In January 2009, a shipment of Type 97 firearms was approved by the RCMP for retail sale, but was later confiscated and seized by [[Canada Border Services Agency]] (CBSA) officers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.canadaammo.com/news.php |title=Archived copy |access-date=May 27, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090413091228/http://www.canadaammo.com/news.php |archive-date=April 13, 2009 }}</ref> Around the same time, a second shipment of Type 97A restricted firearms was also stopped by the CBSA. On March 22, 2010, about 35 civilian owners of Type 97A carbines originally imported by Lever Arms of BC (the only version ever available for sale) were sent notice by the RCMP indicating that the status of their firearm had been changed to "12.2 prohibited (fully automatic)", and owners without such a firearm license had 30 days to turn in their Type 97A firearms to either individuals or businesses that had such a license, or to police for destruction.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nfa.ca/norinco-type-97-reclassification-firearms-act |title=Norinco Type 97 & Reclassification Of Firearms Act Briefing Paper On Reclassification of Firearms and Related Issues Prepared for The Government of Canada |publisher=Canada’s National Firearms Association |access-date=2010-04-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100716200823/http://www.nfa.ca/norinco-type-97-reclassification-firearms-act |archive-date=2010-07-16 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Canadian Type-97 owners initiated a reference hearing, to establish legality of re-classification of the Type-97 semi-automatic weapon to "prohibited" status. In early 2012 the challenge was lost, and the judge ruled that Type-97 firearms are, indeed, prohibited firearms.{{citation needed|date=April 2012}} While the exact details of the modification are kept secret, RCMP firearm technicians allegedly demonstrated to an expert on the defense side that the Type-97 firearm can be readily and easily converted to fully automatic mode of operation in short time and with commonly available tools. As a result, Type-97 firearms were confiscated from the owners, and are no longer legal for civilian ownership in Canada (even for people with the so-called "12.2 fully automatic" firearm license). |
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On April 28, 2013, Norinco's new EMEI T97NSR was classified as a "non-restricted" firearm by the RCMP with FRT Number 142760, and became legal for dealers to import for those with non-restricted possession and acquisition licenses. It is legal in Canada for hunting, varmint control, target practice and competitive shooting. It went into retail stores on September 17, 2013, and costs about $1,000 CAD.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2013/11/24/norinco-t97-bullpup-returns-canada/|title=Norinco T97 Bullpup Returns to Canada – The Firearm Blog|work=The Firearm Blog|date=24 November 2013|access-date=23 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141111023005/http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2013/11/24/norinco-t97-bullpup-returns-canada/|archive-date=11 November 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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====NQZ03A==== |
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Export variant, chambered in 5.56 NATO.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twgreatdaily.com/zh-hans/aD5YoG0BMH2_cNUgIdQF.html|title = 中国几款5.56mm口径外贸枪:03式、NQZ03A、NQZ03B、CS/LR2 步枪|date = 6 October 2019|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406180651/https://twgreatdaily.com/zh-hans/aD5YoG0BMH2_cNUgIdQF.html|archive-date=April 6, 2023}}</ref> |
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====NQZ03B==== |
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Shortened variant, chambered in 5.56 NATO.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.altair.com.pl/news/view?news_id=15131 |title=Altair Agencja Lotnicza |access-date=2018-07-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730080557/http://www.altair.com.pl/news/view?news_id=15131 |archive-date=2018-07-30 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/2008-04-16/1131495575.html |title=国产Nqz03B式5.56毫米短步枪亮相警用装备展_新浪军事_新浪网 |access-date=2018-07-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730081110/http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/2008-04-16/1131495575.html |archive-date=2018-07-30 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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====Flat-top==== |
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[[File:Flat Top Upper T97NSR.jpg|thumb|A T97NSR modified with a flat-top upper (FTU), made by T97.ca<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2015/06/14/weekend-photo-the-chinese-type-97/ |title=Weekend Photo: The Chinese Type 97 - |date=14 June 2015 |access-date=2018-07-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730081938/https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2015/06/14/weekend-photo-the-chinese-type-97/ |archive-date=2018-07-30 |url-status=live }}</ref>]] |
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[[File:EMEI-T97NSR.jpg|thumb|An EMEI T97NSR modified with a FTU and lower hand guard (LHG), made by T97.ca]] |
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Enhanced variants with a Picatinny rail replacing the top carrying handle (so called "flat-top") have been built in both Canada and China. |
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Two export variants, dubbed the "EM3516"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.ifeng.com/a/20150618/44001844_0.shtml |title=95步枪将魔改?中国推出新款外贸型97步枪 |access-date=2018-07-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730080646/http://news.ifeng.com/a/20150618/44001844_0.shtml |archive-date=2018-07-30 |url-status=live }}</ref> and "T97NSR-A",<ref>{{cite web |url=http://cjaie.com/content/details16_11.html |title=Semi-Automatic Rifle T97NSR-A_Rifle_Weapon_Products_Jing an |access-date=2018-07-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730081005/http://cjaie.com/content/details16_11.html |archive-date=2018-07-30 |url-status=live }}</ref> have been unveiled. |
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====K12 PUMA==== |
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[[12-gauge]] [[shotgun]] with a similar mechanism of action and outer resemblance, features a gas switch for heavy and light loads.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NORINCO K12 PUMA: A BULLPUP SHOTGUN! |date=31 July 2015 |url=https://calibremag.ca/norinco-k12-puma-a-bullpup-shotgun/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010094301/https://calibremag.ca/norinco-k12-puma-a-bullpup-shotgun/ |archive-date=2023-10-10 }}</ref> |
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===Foreign variants=== |
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====EMER-K1==== |
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{{main|EMER-K1}} |
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====MA-1 Mk III==== |
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{{main|DI MA-1 Mk. III}} |
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==Users== |
==Users== |
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<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.--> |
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[[File:QBZ User.png|thumb|right|Current users of QBZ-95/97]] |
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*{{flag|China}}: [[People's Liberation Army]]. |
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*{{flag|Cambodia}}: [[911 Special Forces|911 Para-Commando Special Forces]] and Bodyguard Unit (the QBZ-97, QBZ-97A, QBZ-97B, and QBB-97 LSW).<ref name="gun-world.net"/> |
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*{{flag|Myanmar}}: The QBZ-97 is in service with the Myanmar military.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htweap/articles/20090228.aspx?comments=Y|title=China Exports Its Radical New Assault Rifle|accessdate=2010-03-11|publisher=Strategy Page}}</ref> |
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*{{flag|Sri Lanka}}: [[Sri Lanka Air Force]], [[Special Task Force]]. |
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* {{flag|Cambodia}}: [[Special Forces Command (Cambodia)|911 Para-Commando Special Forces]] and Bodyguard Unit (The QBZ-97, QBZ-97A, QBZ-97B, and QJB-97 LSW).<ref name="gun-world.net">{{cite web|title=QBZ97自动步枪|url=http://www.gun-world.net/china/rifle/qbz97/qbz97.htm|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071029155147/http://www.gun-world.net/china/rifle/qbz97/qbz97.htm|archive-date=29 October 2007|access-date=2008-01-16}}</ref> Known to be the first foreign user of the QBZ-97 variant.<ref name="Report">{{cite web|title=Archived copy|url=https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/171425/SIPRIPP38.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180802071307/https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/171425/SIPRIPP38.pdf|archive-date=2018-08-02|access-date=2018-08-02}}</ref> |
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==See also== |
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* {{flag|China}}: Standard service rifle of the [[People's Liberation Army]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/CurrentIssue/dl.php?filename%3D201003140001071.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=June 18, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707174915/http://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/CurrentIssue/dl.php?filename=201003140001071.pdf |archive-date=July 7, 2011 }}</ref> and the [[People's Armed Police]] |
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*[[Norinco Type 86S]] |
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* {{flag|Laos}}<ref name="RifleAT"/> |
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* {{flag|Myanmar}}: QBZ-97s exported to Myanmar.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://salw-guide.bicc.de/pdf/countries/148/myanmar-burma.std.en.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2018-07-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730110401/https://salw-guide.bicc.de/pdf/countries/148/myanmar-burma.std.en.pdf |archive-date=2018-07-30 |url-status=live }}</ref> Manufactured locally and unlicensed as the [[DI MA-1 Mk. III]]. |
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* {{flag|Pakistan}}<ref name="RifleAT"/> |
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* {{flag|Philippines}}: QBZ-97 variant used by [[Philippine National Police]].<ref name="BT">{{cite web |url=https://item.btime.com/30njpcbms8m8osq2b99ekutvtmk |title=菲军警接装中国97式步枪 逐渐取代美制枪械 |access-date=2018-07-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730081119/https://item.btime.com/30njpcbms8m8osq2b99ekutvtmk |archive-date=2018-07-30 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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* {{flag|Rwanda}}<ref name="RifleAT"/> |
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* {{flag|Solomon Islands}}: Supposed QBZ-95 replicas being used by [[Royal Solomon Islands Police Force]] for training.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-03-23 |title=Solomon Islands police show off fake guns given to them by Chinese government |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-23/solomon-islands-police-show-off-guns-chinese-government/100927790 |access-date=2023-10-12}}</ref> |
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* {{flag|Sudan}}: [[Sudanese Army]], QBZ-97 with UBGL selected for Sudanese "Kombo" Future Soldier System.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2014/03/24/sudanese-future-soldier-system/ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226033812/https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2014/03/24/sudanese-future-soldier-system/ | archive-date=2023-02-26 | title=Sudanese Future Soldier System - | date=24 March 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.military.africa/2020/01/modern-soldier-the-future-of-ground-warfare-in-africa/ | title=Modern Soldier: The Future of Ground Warfare in Africa | date=27 January 2020 }}</ref> Appears to be made at the [[Military Industry Corporation]] from components shipped from China.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sadefensejournal.com/wp/?p=4132 |title=IDEX ABU 2017 – Small Arms Defense Journal |access-date=2018-01-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180123072923/http://www.sadefensejournal.com/wp/?p=4132 |archive-date=2018-01-23 |url-status=live }}</ref> Known as Sinan.<ref>{{cite web|title=Small Arms Archive Detail Page for 7867|url=https://www.smallarmsreview.com/archive/detail.arc.entry.cfm?arcid=22533|access-date=2021-03-20|website=www.smallarmsreview.com|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624204705/https://www.smallarmsreview.com/archive/detail.arc.entry.cfm?arcid=22533|archive-date=June 24, 2021}}</ref> |
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* {{flag|Venezuela}}: QBZ-97A used in the Venezuelan military since 2018 by the 99 Special Forces Brigade, 8th Generalissimo Francisco de Miranda Marine Special Operations (Commando) Brigade and the CEOFANB Counter-Terrorist Task Force.<ref>{{cite web|author=Douglas Bravo Colmenares |url=https://www.defensa.com/venezuela/armas-infanteria-fuerzas-armadas-venezuela |title=Armas de infantería de las Fuerzas Armadas de Venezuela-noticia defensa.com - Noticias Defensa Venezuela |publisher=Defensa.com |date=14 September 2021 |accessdate=2022-08-05|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407215603/https://www.defensa.com/venezuela/armas-infanteria-fuerzas-armadas-venezuela|archive-date=April 7, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/3056510/venezuela-expone-capacidades-nueva-fuerza-contraterrorista-ejercicio-tactico | title=Venezuela expone las capacidades de su nueva Fuerza Contraterrorista en un ejercicio táctico|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407004139/https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/3056510/venezuela-expone-capacidades-nueva-fuerza-contraterrorista-ejercicio-tactico|archive-date=April 7, 2023 }}</ref> |
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===Non-state actors=== |
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{{commonscat|Type 95 rifle}} |
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* [[Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam|Tamil Tigers]]: Equipped with the QBZ-97.<ref name="LTTE" /> |
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* [[United Wa State Army]]: Adopting the QBZ-97 to replace UWSA-made Type 81s.<ref>{{cite web|archiveurl=https://archive.today/20210215023458/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/united-wa-state-army-military-parade-showcases-ongoing-modernisation|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/united-wa-state-army-military-parade-showcases-ongoing-modernisation|title=United Wa State Army military parade showcases ongoing modernisation|date=2019-04-23|accessdate=2021-02-15|archivedate=2021-02-15|publisher=Janes}}</ref> |
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==References== |
==References== |
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{{reflist}} |
{{reflist|30em}} |
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==Bibliography== |
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* {{cite book|title=Global Development and Production of Self-loading Service Rifles: 1896 to the Present|jstor=resrep10728|first= N.R.|last= Jenzen-Jones |date=January 2017|isbn=978-2-940548-34-7 |publisher=[[Small Arms Survey]]|url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/F-Working-papers/SAS-WP25-Self-loading-rifles.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170629213337/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/F-Working-papers/SAS-WP25-Self-loading-rifles.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 29, 2017|series= Working Paper 25}} |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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{{commons category|Type 95 rifle}} |
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*[http://www.gun-world.net/china/rifle/qbz97/qbz97.htm Gun World] |
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*[https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/4PjUIVCHLz4 Chinese Media discussing the Type 95 rifle] |
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*[http://www.china-defense.com/infantry/qbz97/qbz97.html China Defense.com - The Type 97 5.56 mm Assault Rifle] |
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{{Norinco|state=expanded}} |
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*[http://world.guns.ru/assault/as39-e.htm Modern Firearms - QBZ-95/Type 95 Assault Rifle] |
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{{Modern Chinese Infantry Weapons}} |
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*[http://www.securityarms.com/20010315/galleryfiles/1700/1722.htm Norinco QBZ-95] |
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{{Bullpup Firearms}} |
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*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PjUIVCHLz4 Chinese Media discussing the Type 95 rifle] |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Qbz-95}} |
{{DEFAULTSORT:Qbz-95}} |
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[[Category:5. |
[[Category:5.8 mm firearms]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:5.56×45mm NATO assault rifles]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:Assault rifles of the People's Republic of China]] |
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[[Category:Bullpup |
[[Category:Bullpup rifles]] |
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[[Category:Norinco]] |
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[[Category:Shotguns of the People's Republic of China]] |
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[[de:Type 95]] |
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[[Category:Semi-automatic shotguns]] |
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[[es:QBZ-95]] |
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[[Category:Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1995]] |
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[[eo:QBZ-95]] |
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[[fr:QBZ-95]] |
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[[ko:QBZ-95]] |
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[[ja:95式自動歩槍]] |
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[[pl:Karabin Type 95]] |
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[[pt:QBZ-97/Type-97]] |
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[[ru:QBZ-95]] |
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[[zh:95式自動步槍]] |
Latest revision as of 18:26, 17 December 2024
Type 95 automatic rifle | |
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Type | Bullpup assault rifle Carbine (QBZ-95B, QBZ-97B, QBZ-95B-1) Light support weapon (QJB-95, QJB-97, QJB-95-1) Shotgun (K12 PUMA) |
Place of origin | China |
Service history | |
In service | 1997–present |
Used by | See Users |
Wars | Sri Lankan Civil War South Sudanese Civil War[1] War in Afghanistan Insurgency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Myanmar conflict Xinjiang conflict |
Production history | |
Designer | Duo Yingxian[2] |
Designed | 1989–1991[3][4] |
Manufacturer | Norinco |
Unit cost | 4,300 Yuan (2014 cost to equip one PLA soldier)[5] |
Produced | 1995–present |
No. built | 3,000,000[6] |
Variants | See Variants |
Specifications | |
Mass | 3.25 kg (7.2 lb) |
Length | 745 mm (29.3 in) |
Barrel length | 463 mm (18.2 in) |
Cartridge | 5.8×42mm DBP87 |
Action | Short-stroke piston, rotating bolt |
Rate of fire | c. 650 rounds/min |
Muzzle velocity | 930 m/s (3,050 ft/s) |
Effective firing range | 400 m (1,300 ft) point target, 600–800 m (2,000–2,600 ft) area target |
Feed system | 30-round detachable box magazine 75-round detachable drum[7] |
Sights | Hooded post front sight and aperture rear sight Y/MA95 (3x) Y/MA95-1 (3x) QMK-152 (3x)[8] QMK-171 (3x)[8] IR5118 thermal scope (1x)[8] |
The Type 95 automatic rifle (Chinese: 95式自动步枪; pinyin: 95 Shì Zìdòng Bùqiāng) or QBZ-95 is a bullpup assault rifle designed and manufactured by Norinco, and issued since 1995 as the service rifle for the People's Liberation Army, People's Armed Police, and various paramilitary law enforcement agencies in the People's Republic of China. The rifle's designation "QBZ" stands for "'light weapon' (Qīng Wŭqì)—'rifle' (Bùqiāng)—'automatic' (Zìdòng)",[2] in keeping with the coding standards of the Chinese defense industry.
The QBZ-95 is the flagship of the Type 95 gun family (95式枪族), a family of firearms sharing a common receiver design, which includes a standard rifle, a carbine and squad automatic weapon (SAW) variants.[9] It fires the 5.8×42mm DBP87, an indigenous intermediate cartridge.
An export version chambered for 5.56×45mm NATO, the QBZ-97, is used by various countries in Southeast Asia, South Asia and East Africa.
Development
[edit]The Chinese military started to develop small-caliber weapons in 1971.[4] The Type 87, a modification based on the Type 81 assault rifle, was developed in the 1980s and entered limited service in 1987. The Chinese military continued to search for a new small-caliber design after Type 87. Bullpup configurations were also experimented with in the early 1980s, resulting in the WTC-1 and WTC-2 bullpup prototypes in 1983[10] and the Type 86 bullpup rifle in 1986. In 1989, the People's Liberation Army requested that Norinco develop a new family of small-caliber firearms with improved reliability and accuracy, adaptability to different roles, and configurability to different tactical applications.[3] The rifle was subcontracted to Norinco's Arsenal 266 and Jianshe Corporation's Arsenal 296.[11]
Duo Yingxian, who is credited for the design of QBZ-95, was recruited to serve as the project head in 1991.[4] He was given four years for the development. Two years were spent on the design, alongside two years of field tests.[2] Initial production started in 1995.
The QBZ-95 was first observed outside China on 1 July 1997, when the United Kingdom transferred the sovereignty of Hong Kong to the People's Republic of China.[11][12] It is a modern weapon system in a bullpup configuration, where the weapon's action and magazine are located behind the grip and trigger assembly. The weapon was designed to replace the standard-issue Type 81 assault rifle. The QBZ-95 had replaced the Type 81 in frontline units by 2006, and is gradually replacing it in second-line units and the People's Armed Police.[11]
An improved version called the "QBZ-95-1" was first seen undergoing trials in early 2010. The first formal public display of the improved version was with the Hong Kong Garrison, the first unit to receive the original QBZ-95, in a military parade in July 2012. Some improvements were ergonomic, with the safety switch moved to above the pistol grip and the right-sided ejection port moved forward with ejection of cartridges at an angle to allow left-handed firing. Unlike previous DBP87 and DBP85 5.8×42mm rounds, it fires better-quality DBP10 ammunition with non-corrosive primers, clean-burning propellant, and copper-coated steel casings with copper-alloy-jacketed hardened steel-cored bullets.
The QBZ-95-1 has a longer, heavier barrel and redesigned muzzle brake, a diamond-shaped cross-section on the handguard to disperse heat, a stronger buttstock and a redesigned trigger guard. The carrying handle was lowered to better position optics on the quick-releasable modified dovetail rail, and a pair of short rails at the sight's base allows for tactical accessories to be mounted.[11] Some Chinese special forces have been seen equipped with customized QBZ-95-1 rifle variants.
Design
[edit]Technical aspects
[edit]The rifle uses polymer materials in its construction, fires a 5.8×42mm small-caliber, high-velocity bullet (in a class with the NATO standard 5.56×45mm SS109 and the Russian 5.45×39mm), and employs a bullpup configuration similar to the British SA80, French FAMAS, Austrian Steyr AUG, South African Vektor CR-21, Israeli Tavor and the Singaporean SAR-21.
Though there have been hints of the 97 variants being involved in some foreign conflicts,[13] little has been reported about its overall combat effectiveness. It has been shown in televised tests that the weapon can continue to function after being immersed in water,[14] as well as other harsh environmental conditions.[15] What is also known is that the weapon operates using a short-stroke gas operated rotating-bolt system, similar to most modern military rifles.
The selector switch on the rifle has four settings. The selector settings are as follows: "0" for safe, "1" for semi-automatic, "2" for fully automatic and, on selected models, "3" for a three-round burst setting.[16]
The Chinese Army says it has tested its 5.8×42mm cartridge extensively against NATO's 5.56×45mm and its counterpart, the 5.45×39mm from Russia. The PLA claims their cartridge outperforms both with flatter trajectories, and higher retention of velocities and energy downrange. It is also claimed to have a penetration superior to the 5.56×45mm NATO.[9][17][18]
Ammunition
[edit]The design of the QBZ-95 is completely new with little resemblance to any of the previous Chinese designs. Thanks to the low recoil impulse of the small caliber ammunition and a recoil buffer system, the rifle is claimed to be more controllable in automatic fire.[13] The aim was to develop an assault rifle based around the 5.8×42mm round, with specifications of being accurate and reliable.
Operation
[edit]Magazines are inserted into the magazine well, which is located to the rear of the pistol grip. The magazine is inserted front-first into the well so that the notch on the front of the magazine is retained in the well. The magazine is then "rocked" into place by rotating the rear of the magazine upwards into the well (in a manner similar to the AK-47 series) until the magazine latch to the rear of the well is engaged. To release the magazine, the magazine release is pressed rearward, and the magazine pivoted forward and disengaged from the front recess.
The QBZ-95 uses a linear striker-firing mechanism, where a spring-loaded firing pin and linear hammer fires the chambered cartridge; most post-World War II military rifles use a rotating hammer firing mechanism. The firing mechanism and trigger are inspired by the vz. 58, but with noticeable differences. The QBZ-95's striker piece has a more complex shape. Furthermore, the QBZ-95 uses in-line main and striker springs using the same spring guide rod, instead of two parallel springs.[19]
The charging handle is located under the integral carrying handle, similar to early versions of the AR-10. To chamber a round and charge the weapon, the handle is pulled fully to the rear and then released forward to bring a round into the chamber. It is then ready to fire. On the later variants, if the bolt is held open, the charging handle will be locked in the rear position under the carrying handle. One can either use the finger to pull the charging handle to the rear fully or press the bolt release button located behind the magazine latch to release the bolt, one feature the previous design lacks.[20]
Ergonomics
[edit]Some experts are concerned over the awkward position of the safety lever near the end of the rifle away from the shooter's hand.[16] This position makes it difficult to quickly select "fire" when it is in "safe" mode. This is resolved on the "G" (Gai, 改; literally: 'modified') variant (QBZ-95-1) where the fire selector switch is repositioned above the pistol grip, giving it a thumb fire selector switch for easy firing mode transition.[20]
The QBZ-95-1 has a redesigned recoil buffer and reportedly feels gentler when fired.[19]
Accessories
[edit]Grenade launchers
[edit]The QBZ-95 can launch rifle grenades from the barrel using blank ammunition. It can also mount the QLG-91B (Type 91B) under-barrel grenade launcher. This 35 mm launcher weighs 1.45 kg (3.2 lb) and is 310 mm (12 in) long. It loads from the breech and fires grenades at 75 m/s (250 ft/s). Various lethal and non-lethal rounds are available including high explosive, tear gas, and illumination.
Other options include the QLG-10 and QLG-10A 35 mm grenade launchers, which both can be mounted on the QBZ-95-1, QBZ-95-1, and QBZ-95B-1.[11] The QLG-10/A is the same length and weighs the same as the QLG91B, but differs in that it fires caseless ammunition. It is modeled after the Russian GP-25 and fires DFS-10 grenades. The DFS-10 has the same caseless design as the Russian VOG-25 where the base of the round is the propellant and nothing is left in the barrel after firing. The QLG10A launcher is loaded from its muzzle and the shell has pre-engraved rifling for added stabilization. It is aimed with iron sights mounted to the left above the barrel, but a red dot sight can be installed over the sight base.
The DFS-10 round weighs 169 g (6.0 oz), has a velocity of 78 m/s (260 ft/s), and has an effective range of 430 m (1,410 ft). Warheads include high explosive fragmentation, high explosive dual-purpose, inert practice, and less-lethal riot control versions.[21]
Bayonet
[edit]The QBZ-95 can be mounted with the Type 87 bayonet, which is based on the M9 bayonet.[22][23]
Sights
[edit]Soldiers can mount optical sights for their rifles, due to a dovetail rail built into the carrying handle. The QBZ-95 can also use YMA95 and YMA95-1 scopes.[24]
QBZ-95 and QBZ-95–1 series rifles can also be fitted with improved QMK-171 3x scopes. The QMK-171 shares the same design as the QMK-152 scope fitted with the QBZ-191, though the QMK-152 only fits on picatinny rails, whereas the QMK-171 has quick-lock lever for dovetail rails.[8]
Picatinny rail
[edit]The carrying handle can be mounted with a short picatinny rail, as well as be swapped to new upper receiver with customization capabilities.[25][26]
Most of the picatinny rail modifications for the Type 95 were designed by Wang Jie (Chinese: 王杰) and Hong Kong weapon designer Lee Ka Ho (Chinese: 李家豪). The ACP Peak series by Lee has a flat-top rail system while "Long Bow" (Chinese: 长弓) modifications from Wang Jie retain the shape of the carrying handle. Both modifications are fielded within the Chinese police force and People's Liberation Army.[27]
Variants
[edit]This section needs additional citations for verification. (November 2022) |
Military variants
[edit]QBZ-95 (rifle)
[edit]This is the Chinese standard-issue version of the rifle, chambered for the 5.8×42mm DBP87 round.[28]
Due to issues associated with the original design, the PLA began a program to improve the Type 95.
Lead designer Duo Yingxian (朵英贤), now retired, stated that the project was currently in progress by some of his students.[2]
The goals for the Type 95 upgrade program include the following:[29]
- To improve the rifle's ergonomics and fire controls
- To chamber the rifle for a new type of ammunition with double the effective range
- To add a quick-firing, domestically produced grenade launcher
The upgrade program resulted in the improved QBZ-95-1 variant.
QBZ-95B (carbine)
[edit]This is a shorter and lighter version of the standard rifle. From pictures seen, the QBZ-95B is seen issued only to naval officers, most likely due to the limited room in naval vessels that would preclude the full length rifle being used in close quarters. Its shorter barrel prevents a grenade launcher or bayonet from being attached, and it has an AKS-74U style muzzle booster.
The carbine may also be in use with special forces.[11] It lacks a forend and instead has a foregrip, with the front iron sight built into the carrying handle.[16]
QJB-95 light support weapon (LSW)
[edit]The QJB-95 is the squad automatic weapon variant of the QBZ-95. The designation "QJB" stands for "Qingwuqi, Jiqiang, Banyong", which means 'light weapon/small arm, machine gun, squad-use'. It has an added bipod, a longer, heavier barrel and a 75 or 80-round drum magazine to allow sustained fire, however, the standard 30-round box magazine is also compatible.
Although the QJB-95 and QBZ-95 both take the standard 5.8×42mm DBP87 round, the QJB-95 typically uses the 5.8x42mm DBP88 "heavy round" squad automatic weapon and designated marksman rifle cartridges, which have longer, deeper armor penetration and greater ballistics' capabilities at long range. As using the heavy rounds in a QBZ-95 would greatly wear the barrel in action, normal cartridges are used in QBZ-95 rifles.
However, with the fielding of the QBZ-95-1 variant, newer and heavier DBP10 cartridges are planned to become the standard ammunition for both weapons.
QBZ-97 (5.56 mm)
[edit]The QBZ-97 is an export version similar to the QBZ-95 in all respects, except that it is chambered for 5.56×45mm NATO ammunition and has a deep magazine well designed to accept STANAG magazines.[12] This rifle is currently used by Ginghis Security Academy, a Chinese private security group, supplementing their QBZ-95s.[30]
QBZ-97A (5.56 mm assault rifle)
[edit]This variant is a QBZ-97 with the addition of a three-round burst mode and a bolt hold-open device;[31] it also differs from the QBZ-95 and the QBZ-97 by the shape of its grip, now missing the "front grip" part in front of the trigger guard.
QBZ-97B (5.56 mm carbine)
[edit]This is the carbine version of the QBZ-97. The official distributor of the QBZ-97B assault carbine on the international market, Jianshe Industries (Group) Corporation, advertises and sells it under the denomination "5.56mm short automatic rifle Type NQZ03B (97)".[32]
QJB-97 LSW (5.56 mm light support weapon)
[edit]The light support weapon model of the QBZ-97 is chambered for 5.56×45mm NATO ammo.
QBZ-95-1 (rifle)
[edit]The new QBZ-95-1, also called the QBZ-95 "Gai" ("改"; literally: 'modified'), addresses several reliability and ease-of-use issues, and has improved ergonomics.[33][2]
The QBZ-95 variant titled "1" fires the heavier 5.8×42mm DBP10 round,[34] and has a heavier, longer barrel and a redesigned muzzle brake to use it. The "1" variant has an altered butt stock, trigger guard, and a repositioned thumb fire selector switch above the pistol grip. The carrying handle has retained the Chinese quick release mount rail. In addition, cartridge casings eject to the front (1 o'clock position from the barrel) of the weapon, allowing left-handed firing. Also, there is a bolt release button located behind the magazine latch.[20] It was observed undergoing testing and evaluation in early 2010.
It was later introduced into service, replacing the original QBZ-95 assault rifle. The original QBZ-95 rifles are being handed down to second line and reserve troops, while front line troops receive the QBZ-95-1.[35][36]
The QBZ-95-1 is scheduled to be replaced in the near future by a new assault rifle known as the "QBZ-191".[37]
QBZ-95B-1 (carbine)
[edit]Improved version of the QBZ-95B with barrel and ergonomic enhancements of the QBZ-95-1 in the carbine platform.[11][38]
QJB-95-1 light support weapon (LSW)
[edit]An improved version of the QJB-95 LSW with the ergonomic enhancements of the QBZ-95-1 in a squad machine gun platform.[11][38]
Civilian variants
[edit]Two sporterized, semi-automatic-only rifles based upon the QBZ-97A assault rifle and the QBZ-97B assault carbine have been developed for the civilian market, the Type 97 rifle and the Type 97A carbine. They are chambered for the .223 Remington and 5.56mm cartridge and are fed by STANAG magazines.[39][40]
Type 97A carbines became available in Canada in 2008, were classified as "non-restricted" by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and sold to the general public. In January 2009, a shipment of Type 97 firearms was approved by the RCMP for retail sale, but was later confiscated and seized by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers.[41] Around the same time, a second shipment of Type 97A restricted firearms was also stopped by the CBSA. On March 22, 2010, about 35 civilian owners of Type 97A carbines originally imported by Lever Arms of BC (the only version ever available for sale) were sent notice by the RCMP indicating that the status of their firearm had been changed to "12.2 prohibited (fully automatic)", and owners without such a firearm license had 30 days to turn in their Type 97A firearms to either individuals or businesses that had such a license, or to police for destruction.[42] Canadian Type-97 owners initiated a reference hearing, to establish legality of re-classification of the Type-97 semi-automatic weapon to "prohibited" status. In early 2012 the challenge was lost, and the judge ruled that Type-97 firearms are, indeed, prohibited firearms.[citation needed] While the exact details of the modification are kept secret, RCMP firearm technicians allegedly demonstrated to an expert on the defense side that the Type-97 firearm can be readily and easily converted to fully automatic mode of operation in short time and with commonly available tools. As a result, Type-97 firearms were confiscated from the owners, and are no longer legal for civilian ownership in Canada (even for people with the so-called "12.2 fully automatic" firearm license).
On April 28, 2013, Norinco's new EMEI T97NSR was classified as a "non-restricted" firearm by the RCMP with FRT Number 142760, and became legal for dealers to import for those with non-restricted possession and acquisition licenses. It is legal in Canada for hunting, varmint control, target practice and competitive shooting. It went into retail stores on September 17, 2013, and costs about $1,000 CAD.[43]
NQZ03A
[edit]Export variant, chambered in 5.56 NATO.[44]
NQZ03B
[edit]Shortened variant, chambered in 5.56 NATO.[45][46]
Flat-top
[edit]Enhanced variants with a Picatinny rail replacing the top carrying handle (so called "flat-top") have been built in both Canada and China.
Two export variants, dubbed the "EM3516"[48] and "T97NSR-A",[49] have been unveiled.
K12 PUMA
[edit]12-gauge shotgun with a similar mechanism of action and outer resemblance, features a gas switch for heavy and light loads.[50]
Foreign variants
[edit]EMER-K1
[edit]MA-1 Mk III
[edit]Users
[edit]- Cambodia: 911 Para-Commando Special Forces and Bodyguard Unit (The QBZ-97, QBZ-97A, QBZ-97B, and QJB-97 LSW).[51] Known to be the first foreign user of the QBZ-97 variant.[52]
- China: Standard service rifle of the People's Liberation Army[53] and the People's Armed Police
- Laos[37]
- Myanmar: QBZ-97s exported to Myanmar.[54] Manufactured locally and unlicensed as the DI MA-1 Mk. III.
- Pakistan[37]
- Philippines: QBZ-97 variant used by Philippine National Police.[55]
- Rwanda[37]
- Solomon Islands: Supposed QBZ-95 replicas being used by Royal Solomon Islands Police Force for training.[56]
- Sudan: Sudanese Army, QBZ-97 with UBGL selected for Sudanese "Kombo" Future Soldier System.[57][58] Appears to be made at the Military Industry Corporation from components shipped from China.[59] Known as Sinan.[60]
- Venezuela: QBZ-97A used in the Venezuelan military since 2018 by the 99 Special Forces Brigade, 8th Generalissimo Francisco de Miranda Marine Special Operations (Commando) Brigade and the CEOFANB Counter-Terrorist Task Force.[61][62]
Non-state actors
[edit]- Tamil Tigers: Equipped with the QBZ-97.[13]
- United Wa State Army: Adopting the QBZ-97 to replace UWSA-made Type 81s.[63]
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