QBZ-03

   The QBZ-03 or Type 03 assault rifle is a recent Chinese development. Some sources claim that this weapon has been developed to complement the previous QBZ-95 assault rifle with bullpup layout, which was apparently found not entirely satisfaction. Currently it is unknown if the QBZ-03 will enter a widespread service with the PLA. Some sources report that it is already in service with Chinese Border Guard units.

   The QBZ-03 is a gas operated, selective fire weapon, chambered for Chinese indigenous 5.8 x 42 mm cartridge. This cartridge had been developed in the late 1980s. It is claimed to be superior to the standard NATO 5.56 x 45 mm and Soviet 5.45 x 39 mm ammunition. Unlike the previous QBZ-95 is has a conventional layout. It is a successor to the Type 87 experimental rifle, developed in the mid 1980s for testing of this new 5.8 x 42 mm cartridge.

   A small safety / fire selector switch is located above the pistol grip, on the left side. It has semi-auto shots and full-auto modes.

   The QBZ-03 has standard iron sights with a flip-up rear diopter. Also this assault rifle has a scope rail on top of the receiver and can be fitted with a variety of scopes and night vision sights.

   This weapon comes with a skeletonized polymer shoulder stock, which folds to the right side. A bayonet can be attached to the flash hider, which is also used to launch riffle grenades. A field toolkit is located inside the pistol grip.

   An export version of this assault rifle is chambered for the standard NATO 5.56 x 45 mm ammunition. It is also compatible with the standard STANAG (M16-type) magazines.