QBZ-191

China's new-generation standard rifle — a conventionally laid out, short-stroke piston design with a modular rail system, firing a proprietary 5.8×42mm round, and the instrument of the PLA's shift away from the bullpup.

Overview

The QBZ-191, commonly referred to as the Type 191, is the new standard-issue assault rifle of the People's Liberation Army and the People's Armed Police. Chambered in the indigenous 5.8×42mm DBP-191 cartridge, it replaces the bullpup QBZ-95 family from 2019 onwards. The rifle introduces a conventional, ergonomic layout with an aluminium-alloy receiver, polymer furniture, and a full-length Picatinny/M-LOK rail interface, bringing Chinese infantry small arms closer in handling and modularity to contemporary Western designs. The family encompasses the standard rifle, a compact carbine (QBZ-192), and a designated marksman rifle (QBU-191). An export variant is marketed as the CS/LR41.

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