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QBZ-191
QBZ-191
QBZ-191
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The QBZ-191 Automatic Rifle (Chinese: 191式自动步枪; pinyin: Yāo jiǔ yāo Shì Zìdòng Bùqiāng) is a Chinese assault rifle chambered for the 5.8×42mm intermediate cartridge, designed and manufactured by Chongqing Jianshe as a new-generation service rifle for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and People's Armed Police (PAP).

Key Information

History

[edit]

The Chinese military initiated the development of conventional-layout service rifles in 2014, with multiple manufacturers involved in the development and bidding process. Various prototypes of the new weapon platform were leaked online in 2016 and 2017.[8][9]

The QBZ-191 rifle was designed by Norinco's 208 Research Institute,[1] which also designed the QBZ-95 rifle.

According to the director of the 208 Research Institute, QBZ-191 is a component of the new "Integrated Soldier Combat System" (Chinese: 单兵综合作战系统), which aims to overhaul the PLA's infantry equipment.[4]

The QBZ-191 was formally revealed at the 70th Anniversary National Day military parade on 1 October 2019, carried by personnel of the PLA Ground Force and People's Armed Police[10].

Adoption

[edit]

It was reported since 2021 that the QBZ-191 would eventually replace the QBZ-95 and QBZ-03 in PLA service.[11]

Since August 2023, Chinese special forces units use the QBZ-192 with armored infantry units following suit.[12]

During the "Laos-China Friendship Shield-2024" military exercises in July 2024, Chinese troops presented the QBZ-191 to their Laotian counterparts.[13]

Design

[edit]

The QBZ-191 features several improvements, aiming to resolve the unsatisfactory issues, such as ergonomics, of the Type 95 platform.[8][5]

Compared to the bullpup QBZ-95, the QBZ-191 uses a conventional configuration similar to the QBZ-03, with greatly improved ergonomics, ambidextrous usability, and better reliability across different environments.[8]

Sights

[edit]

The QBZ-191 rifle features a full-length Picatinny rail on the top and comes standard with new 3× daylight prismatic optics called QMK152 and QMK-171A, while a thermal sight is also available.

The QBU-191 DMR variant is equipped with a new 3–8.6×[7] riflescope called QMK-191[14] or the IR5118 digital night vision/thermal scope.[15]

The rifle is also equipped with backup iron sights that can be folded down when not in use.[8]

Operation

[edit]

The QBZ-191 platform features a short-stroke piston gas-operation design with rotating bolt.[4][5]

The rotating bolt has four locking lugs and a helical cam-in locking mechanism. A three-position gas regulator is located at the gas block attached to the handguard via dovetails.

The fire control group is a self-contained modular unit, with a fire selector in the order of safe, full auto, and semi-automatic firing.[3]

The standard QBZ-191 has a full-auto rate of fire at 750 rounds per minute.[3]

Ergonomics

[edit]

The QBZ-191 platform features various barrel lengths and handguard configurations. It is designated as part of the Type 20 (Chinese: 20式; pinyin: 20 Shì) weapon family by the People's Liberation Army.[1][16]

The QBZ-191's main body is divided into the upper and lower receivers, both are made of aluminium alloy and connected by two assembly pins, while the handguard, pistol grip and telescoping stock are made of polymer material.[8][5]

The QBZ-191 rifle has improved ergonomics, modularity, and customization options, featuring a 4-position adjustable buttstock, ambidextrous fire selector, and a lengthened magazine release lever located in front of the trigger guard for speed-reloading or easier manipulation when wearing gloves. The reciprocating charging handle is located on the right side, while the bolt-release button sits on the left, above the "rock-and-lock" magazine insertion well.[4][5]

The handguard has provisions at its 3, 6 and 9 o'clock positions, which allow small sections of Picatinny rails to be selectively installed through screw holes, so that various accessories such as flashlight, laser module, foregrip, bipod, and a type of grip pod with button controls for the integrated infantry combat system can be attached.[8][5]

The QBU-191, its DMR variant, is fitted with an accurized long, heavy free-floating barrel and extended handguard.[7]

Ammunition

[edit]
Main article: 5.8×42mm

The QBZ-191 rifle is chambered in the Chinese-proprietary 5.8×42mm caliber with a redesigned DBP-191 ammunition that has better ballistic performance at medium to long ranges.[17][18]

Magazines

[edit]

The weapon can feed from the transparent 30-round polymer magazine,[14] older 30-round QBZ-95 magazines,[6] and from the 75-round magazines of the QJB-95 light support weapons.[6]

The new polymer magazine has a redesigned surface texture for better grip and a transparent ammunition-checking window.[4] with a design similar to that of Magpul PMAG.[17]

Accessories

[edit]

The weapon platform can be mounted with the QNL-95 bayonet, suppressors, and under-barrel grenade launchers.[5]

Variants

[edit]

QBZ-191

[edit]

Assault rifle with a 14.5 in (368.3 mm) barrel.[3]

QBZ-192

[edit]

Carbine variant with a 10.5 in (266.7 mm) barrel.[3][19][20]

QBU-191

[edit]

Designated marksman rifle with an 800 m (870 yd) effective range.[1]

May be configured into a light support weapon if equipped with a drum magazine[3].

QBZ-195T

[edit]

QBZ-191 variant meant to be chambered in 5.56mm NATO ammo.[21]

CS/LR42

[edit]

QBZ-191 variant chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO.[22]

CS/LR42A

[edit]

QBZ-192 variant chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO.[22]

CS/LR43

[edit]

QBZ-191 variant chambered in 7.62×39mm.[22]

CS/LR43A

[edit]

QBZ-192 variant chambered in 7.62×39mm.[22]

CS/LR44

[edit]

QBU-191 variant chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO.[23]

[edit]

Users

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References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

QBZ-191

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The QBZ-191 is a modular family of assault rifles developed by for the of , chambered in the DBP-191 cartridge and serving as the successor to the bullpup-configured QBZ-95. Introduced publicly during the 2019 parade in as part of the Type 20 rifle family, it features a conventional layout with a gas-operated short-stroke system and a cyclic of 750 rounds per minute. The design emphasizes modularity and , including a full-length on the receiver for mounting optics such as the QMK152 or QMK-171A 3× prismatic sights, flip-up , and ambidextrous controls to improve usability over its predecessor. The standard QBZ-191 model has a 368 mm (14.5 in) barrel, while variants include the compact QBZ-192 with a 267 mm (10.5 in) barrel for enhanced maneuverability in close quarters, and the QBU-191 with a longer 551 mm (21.7 in) barrel for extended-range precision. A variant completes the family, sharing common components for logistics efficiency. Development began around 2014 to address limitations in the QBZ-95, such as ergonomics and rail mounting options, with adoption beginning around 2021 and ongoing fielding to PLA units as of 2025. As of 2025, upgrades have improved its accuracy, and it is used by PLA honor guards in parades. The rifle's adoption reflects 's focus on modernizing small arms for versatile tactical roles and potential export markets.

Development

Origins and Requirements

The QBZ-95, introduced in 1997 as the standard-issue rifle for the (PLA), featured a configuration that prioritized compactness but introduced ergonomic challenges, particularly for taller operators who experienced discomfort from the shorter and awkward cheek weld. Additionally, the design complicated field maintenance, as the action's placement behind the trigger group made disassembly and cleaning more difficult under combat conditions. These shortcomings became more apparent amid the PLA's broader modernization efforts under President , which accelerated after the 2015-2016 organizational reforms to build a force capable of integrated joint operations in 21st-century conflicts. Emphasis was placed on upgrading for enhanced to support accessory integration, full ambidexterity for versatile handling, and compatibility with modern and sighting systems to improve accuracy and . Development of the QBZ-191 began around 2014-2015 at Norinco's 208 Research Institute, the same entity responsible for the , with prototypes emerging and leaking online by 2016-2017. The rifle adopted a conventional layout—abandoning the design—to better address these ergonomic and maintenance issues while retaining the caliber in an enhanced DBP-191 loading optimized for improved penetration and reduced recoil. Core performance specifications included an effective firing range of 400 meters, an unloaded weight under 3.5 kg to ensure portability, and fully ambidextrous controls, including selector switches and magazine releases, to facilitate operation by diverse personnel in varied environments.

Timeline and Adoption

The QBZ-191 made its public debut on October 1, 2019, during China's 70th National Day military parade in , where prototypes were showcased by personnel from the (PLA) Ground Force and other branches. This event marked the rifle's first widespread exposure, signaling a shift from the bullpup configuration of the preceding design. Following the debut, the PLA conducted extensive testing of the QBZ-191 from 2020 onward, evaluating reliability across diverse environments including extreme temperatures and terrain. The full rifle family, including variants for different roles, was revealed to the public in 2021 at the Airshow, highlighting its modular features after initial trial phases. During these trials, early challenges such as limited barrel life—initially around 10,000 rounds—were identified and addressed through ammunition improvements, with the new DBP-191 reportedly extending durability to 20,000 rounds. The rifle began entering service with the PLA Ground Force in 2021, with initial fielding to elite and front-line units that year. By 2023, distribution expanded to regular formations, as evidenced by observations of the weapon in operational settings. As of 2025, production has scaled up at the Jianshe Industry Group facility, with ongoing enhancements for improved accuracy and export compliance, including tactical scope integrations and ballistic optimizations. In June 2025, the QBZ-191 received an accuracy boost through the integration of tactical scopes. An improved variant was showcased during a in September 2025. These developments reflect the PLA's prioritization of the QBZ-191 as its next-generation , with fielding continuing across forces and broader ground units.

Design

Operating System and Construction

The QBZ-191 utilizes a gas-operated short-stroke gas piston system located above the barrel, employing a with four lugs for reliable locking. This mechanism is controlled by a three-position gas regulator, enabling selective fire in semi-automatic and full-automatic modes at a cyclic rate of 750 rounds per minute. The rifle's construction emphasizes lightweight durability through the use of aluminum alloy for the upper and lower receivers, combined with extensive components for the handguard, , and telescoping stock. The standard variant features a 368 mm barrel, contributing to an overall unloaded weight of approximately 3.1 kg. It feeds from 30-round detachable magazines compatible with the DBP191 cartridge. For modularity, the QBZ-191 incorporates a full-length along the top of the receiver and handguard, with an additional underbarrel rail to support various attachments such as and foregrips. The design includes ambidextrous controls to enhance operational usability across different user preferences.

Ergonomics and Accessories

The QBZ-191 rifle incorporates several ergonomic enhancements over its predecessor, the bullpup-configured , primarily through its adoption of a conventional layout that positions the magazine forward of the , facilitating more natural handling and reloading for operators. This design shift improves overall usability in dynamic combat environments, allowing for better balance and reduced interference during movement. The rifle features fully ambidextrous controls, including the safety selector, magazine release, and bolt catch, enabling seamless operation for both right- and left-handed users without compromising speed or safety. Its adjustable telescoping stock includes a cheek riser to optimize eye relief when paired with , while the incorporates textured surfaces for secure retention even in adverse wet conditions. Standard consist of a flip-up hooded front post and a rear rotary adjustable for various ranges, though the platform is primarily optimized for optical enhancements via an integrated full-length on the receiver and Picatinny handguard. Common optics include the 3x QMK-152 prism sight, with compatibility for equivalents like 4x ACOG-style units to support precise aiming in diverse lighting. Accessory integration is highly modular, supporting quick-detach sling points, vertical foregrips, aiming modules, and attachments directly on the Picatinny rails for tactical versatility. Integral suppressor options and a further reduce and signature, enhancing controllability during sustained fire without disrupting the gas piston system's reliability.

Variants

Standard and Models

The QBZ-191 standard model features a 368 mm barrel and serves as the primary for general use, providing balanced performance for mid-range engagements up to an of 400 meters. Its unloaded weight is approximately 3.1 kg, achieved through aluminum alloy receivers and components, making it suitable for extended patrols and assaults. The QBZ-192 carbine variant, with a shorter 267 mm barrel, is optimized for close-quarters urban combat and operations by vehicle crews or special forces, offering an effective range of 300 meters while reducing overall weight to enhance maneuverability. This configuration prioritizes agility in confined spaces without compromising core functionality. Both models share a cyclic of 750 rounds per minute and use 30-round detachable box magazines compatible with DBP191 or DBP10 ammunition, ensuring logistical commonality across the family. The standard model remains the most produced variant for , while the is primarily issued to units requiring compact weaponry. Subtle ergonomic adjustments in and handguard address balance differences, favoring mid-range stability in the standard and quick handling in the .

Designated Marksman and Support Models

The QBU-191 variant of the QBZ-191 family features a longer 551 mm barrel compared to the standard model's 368 mm, designed to provide enhanced precision for medium-range engagements. This configuration improves stability during sustained firing, and the rifle is typically equipped with a bipod mounted via the modular rail system for supported positions. It comes standard with a 3×–8.6× variable magnification optic, such as the QMK-191, enabling effective point target engagement out to 800 m. Like other QBZ-191 variants, the QBU-191 incorporates adjustable gas settings via a three-position regulator on the short-stroke gas system, allowing users to tune performance for different conditions or suppressors. The barrel is match-grade and free-floating to minimize vibration. In (PLA) fireteams, typically the position is assigned one QBU-191 to extend the unit's engagement range against personnel or light vehicles. The QJB-201 variant serves as the , optimized for . Weighing around 5 kg unloaded with reinforced components for durability under full-automatic use, it maintains compatibility with the 5.8×42mm DBP-191 cartridge and achieves an of 600 m. It supports feeding from a 75-round , enabling prolonged bursts at a cyclic rate of up to 750 rpm. The QJB-201 also features the family's adjustable gas regulator for reliable operation across firing modes and environmental factors, contributing to its role in providing volume of fire for PLA squads. In typical organization, the automatic rifleman carries the QJB-201 to deliver sustained , complementing the fireteam's maneuver elements and integrating with one DMR per squad for layered firepower.

Operational Use

Adoption by Chinese Forces

The QBZ-191 began entering service with elite units of the (PLA) in the early 2020s, with initial fielding to forces and the PLA Airborne Corps reported as early as 2021. By 2023, it had been observed in use by paratroopers during combat training exercises and units. The rifle's rollout to frontline combat units accelerated thereafter, with prioritization for modernization in and reconnaissance roles across the PLA , Marine Corps, and . The replacement of the legacy rifle is proceeding gradually due to the PLA's scale, with the QBZ-191 expected to become the standard across all branches by the late 2020s. PLA training protocols for the QBZ-191 emphasize its ambidextrous controls and modular rail system, enabling rapid attachment of optics, lasers, and suppressors for diverse scenarios such as urban close-quarters battle and amphibious operations. Soldiers undergo live-fire drills and simulations to master the rifle's , which address previous limitations in the , including improved handling for left-handed users and enhanced accessory integration. These protocols align with the PLA's broader push for realistic, joint-service training to boost force readiness. The QBZ-191 integrates seamlessly with contemporary PLA equipment, including the Type 19 individual system and updated sidearms, forming part of a unified modular kit designed for high-intensity conflicts. It is typically paired with the QMK-152 3× optical sight or advanced night-vision devices via its full-length , enhancing in low-light or complex environments. Logistics support includes scaled production of the dedicated DBP-191 , optimized for penetration against modern . In operational exercises, the QBZ-191 has demonstrated superior reliability and accuracy compared to its predecessor, with reports highlighting consistent performance in varied environmental conditions and an of 800 meters. Upgrades, such as new optical sights introduced in 2025, have further boosted precision to approximately 3 cm grouping at 20 rounds, supporting its role in squad-level tactics alongside variants like the QBZ-192 and QBU-191 . In September 2025, QBZ-191 rifles were carried by honor guards during China's military parade in , indicating progressing adoption across PLA units.

Export and International Interest

The QBZ-191 has garnered international attention through -oriented variants developed by to enhance compatibility with global standards, notably the QBZ-195T chambered in ammunition. This adaptation addresses the limitations of the rifle's standard proprietary cartridge, making it suitable for foreign militaries reliant on NATO-standard logistics. prominently marketed the QBZ-191 family, including export configurations, at major arms exhibitions such as IDEX 2023 in , where the rifle was displayed alongside other modern Chinese to highlight its modularity and ergonomic advantages. A key milestone in the rifle's export history occurred in 2025 when the Royal Thai Armed Forces selected the QBZ-195T for its units, marking the first confirmed foreign adoption of the platform as of October 2025. This deal reflects growing interest from Southeast Asian allies seeking cost-effective, modern assault rifles with customizable features akin to Western designs like the M4 or HK416. The modular design, which allows for easy integration of optics, suppressors, and grips, has been cited as particularly appealing to potential importers evaluating upgrades for counter-insurgency and roles. While inquiries from other partners have been noted in broader Chinese arms promotion efforts, no additional confirmed sales beyond were reported by late 2025. Despite these developments, the QBZ-191 faces challenges in achieving widespread international adoption. The lack of extensive combat data, as the rifle remains primarily a asset with limited exposure in multinational operations, hinders trust among prospective buyers seeking proven performance in diverse environments. Additionally, the proprietary ammunition restricts interoperability for non-export variants, necessitating costly recalibrations for or other standards. and PLA promotional materials emphasize the rifle's tactical advantages, such as improved ergonomics and reliability over predecessors like the , to counter these hurdles and position it as a competitive alternative to pricier Western rifles. As of November 2025, the platform's export success remains nascent, with Thailand's acquisition serving as a proof-of-concept for future deals.

References

  1. https://www.militaryfactory.com/smallarms/detail.php?smallarms_id=1293
  2. https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/chinas-new-assault-rifle-the-qbz-191-44817586
  3. https://cenjows.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/New-Chinese-Assault-Rifle-dt-06-Nov-2019.pdf
  4. https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3328706/qbz-191-assault-rifle-gives-chinese-small-arms-tactical-and-export-edge
  5. https://sofrep.com/news/sofrep-intelligence-report-chinese-female-peoples-liberation-army-soldiers-train-with-qbz-191-rifles/
  6. https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202506/1337313.shtml
  7. https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3324051/honour-guards-chinas-military-parade-carry-plas-latest-qbz-191-rifles
  8. https://www.orfonline.org/research/mapping-the-recent-trends-in-china-s-military-modernisation-2025
  9. https://defence-blog.com/chinese-soldiers-tets-next-generation-assault-rifle/
  10. https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202109/1235534.shtml
  11. https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/chinese-soldiers-seen-testing-new-qbz-191-assault-rifle-how-deadly-it-146202
  12. https://modernfirearms.net/en/assault-rifles/china-assault-rifles/qbz-191-2/
  13. https://www.armadainternational.com/2025/08/weapons-design-for-today-and-tomorrow/
  14. https://sadefensejournal.com/seeing-red-a-photographic-exploration-of-recent-infantry-weapons-of-chinas-pla/
  15. https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/china-bolsters-qbz191-assault-rifle-capabilities
  16. https://interestingengineering.com/military/china-showed-biggest-military-parade
  17. https://media.defense.gov/2024/Dec/18/2003615520/-1/-1/0/MILITARY-AND-SECURITY-DEVELOPMENTS-INVOLVING-THE-PEOPLES-REPUBLIC-OF-CHINA-2024.PDF
  18. https://armyrecognition.com/focus-analysis-conflicts/army/defence-security-industry-technology/qbz-191-new-chinese-made-assault-rifle-carbine-5-8x42mm-caliber
  19. https://asiatimes.com/2020/04/china-fields-traditional-assault-rifle-in-qbz-191/
  20. https://www.imfdb.org/wiki/QBZ-191
  21. https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2023/04/18/idex-2023-modern-small-arms-of-china/
  22. https://armyrecognition.com/archives/archives-land-defense/land-defense-2023/china-equips-its-special-forces-with-new-qbz-192-assault-rifle
  23. https://wmasg.com/en/articles/view/9685
  24. http://china-defense.blogspot.com/2025/08/pla-infantry-squad-toe-update-aug-2025.html
  25. https://blog.roninsgrips.com/small-arms-of-the-peoples-republic-of-china-a-technical-and-strategic-assessment/
  26. https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/the-chinese-qjb-201-light-machine-gun-44817526
  27. https://www.china-arms.com/2021/07/qbz191-rifle-transparent-magazine/
  28. https://www.china-arms.com/2021/08/qbz191-rifle-accurate-qbz95/
  29. http://en.norinco.cn/art/2024/6/21/art_6488_500407.html
  30. https://armyrecognition.com/archives/archives-land-defense/land-defense-2024/thailand-to-import-qbz-195t-chinese-assault-rifles-for-special-operations
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