China's New Infantry Rifle

[Dawes 0]

China's small arms don't get much publicity, but China seems to introduce new designs more frequently than the West;

 

https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2019/09/30/first-photo-of-the-chinese-pla-new-standard-rifle-and-what-we-know-so-far/

[KV7 0]

What is the point of the change though ? The existing bullpup seems to be generally as good and more compact.

[KV7 0]

Ok, here we go:

'The reported reasons for replacing the QBZ-95 after such a modest service life (barely 20 years) are that the rifle’s modularity and ergonomics are limited by its design. The integral carry handle and charging handle design complicate the mounting of optics, and the bullpup layout does not allow for a collapsing or folding buttstock. In the event of a case or chamber failure, the shooter’s face is right next to the explosion, where in a conventional rifle the face is removed to a usually safe distance.'

[Panzermann 0]

Ok, here we go:

 

'The reported reasons for replacing the QBZ-95 after such a modest service life (barely 20 years) are that the rifle’s modularity and ergonomics are limited by its design. The integral carry handle and charging handle design complicate the mounting of optics, and the bullpup layout does not allow for a collapsing or folding buttstock. In the event of a case or chamber failure, the shooter’s face is right next to the explosion, where in a conventional rifle the face is removed to a usually safe distance.'

 

 

One of this hear grate site's members used to own a qbz-95 civilian export version for Canada I think. It blew up in his face, but kept him safe with only a few bruises. So this "explodes in your face" is way overstated. The QBZ-95 is an awkward rifles with an odd manual of arms, that alone may be reason to replace it together with the desire to mount optics and otehr accessories.

[Gavin-Phillips 0]

Interesting news article that is.

 

There is also an LMG/SAW variant of the QBZ-95 (also called the Type 95, but QBB-95 seems to be the official designation). I wonder if that is being replaced as well? Strange that the article would mention both the new assault rifle, carbine and DMR variant but nothing concerning an LMG/SAW unless its performance is satisfactory enough for the time being?

[Panzermann 0]

Interesting news article that is.

 

There is also an LMG/SAW variant of the QBZ-95 (also called the Type 95, but QBB-95 seems to be the official designation). I wonder if that is being replaced as well? Strange that the article would mention both the new assault rifle, carbine and DMR variant but nothing concerning an LMG/SAW unless its performance is satisfactory enough for the time being?

 

Or they ditch the "lMG" based on the general issue assault rifle.

[Rick 0]

Without starting a new thread, as an ex-sailor asking for those of you experienced in such details, does the RPK make a noticeable improvement in an AK-47 infantry squad?

Thank you.

Edited October 12, 2019 by Rick