Type 88 / QBU-88
Summary
| Country | 🇨🇳 China |
| Category | Sniper rifle |
| Manufacturer | Norinco |
Technical specifications
| Type 88 / QBU-88 | |
|---|---|
| Fire Rate | 30 rounds/min. |
| Caliber | 5.8 x 42 mm Special sniper |
| Magazine | 10 rounds |
| Length | 920 mm (36.2 in) |
| Weight | 4.1 kg (9.0 lb) |
| Range | 800 m (2625 ft) |
Description
The QBU-88 sniper rifle, also known as the Type 88 rifle, was adopted in 1997 as the first of a new generation of Chinese small arms chambered for the proprietary 5.8×42mm DBP87 ammunition. Considered a designated marksman rifle rather than a true sniper rifle, it is designed for aimed semi-automatic fire at distances beyond the capability of standard infantry assault rifles. The rifle is designed for rough military application and can utilize adjustable iron sights, telescopic sights, or night sights. The rifle is optimized for a specific heavy loading of the 5.8×42mm cartridge featuring a longer, streamlined bullet with a steel core but can also fire standard ammunition used by the QBZ-95 assault rifle.
Designated the QBU-88 or Qīngwuqi Bùqiāng Jūjī ("Light Weapon, Rifle, Sniper"), this weapon is a gas-operated semi-automatic rifle that employs:
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A short-stroke gas piston above the barrel
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A three-lug rotating bolt mechanism
The mechanism is housed within a steel receiver enclosed by a polymer bullpup configuration casing. For enhanced accuracy, the action is coupled with a 640 mm hammer-forged match-grade barrel. A safety switch is positioned at the base of the receiver, located behind the magazine opening. The rifle includes open, diopter-type adjustable sights mounted on folding posts and a short dovetail rail on the receiver for attaching optics like telescope or night sights. A reciprocating charging handle is located on the right side of the receiver. After the last round is discharged, the bolt is held open by a bolt catch, released by pulling the charging handle to the rear. The primary mode of operation for this rifle is with optics. The standard military day optic is a Chinese 3-9×40 scope with an integral quick-release mount. A Chinese 6-24×44 tactical scope is available for counter-terrorism and law enforcement uses. The rifling of the QBU-88 differs from the standard QBZ-95; while the QBZ-95 has a 244 mm twist, the QBU-88 uses a faster 206 mm twist optimized for the 70-grain Heavy Ball and dedicated Sniper loads. A long birdcage flash suppressor reduces muzzle signature, and a quick-detachable bipod can be clamped to the barrel.
An export version, the QBU-97A, is manufactured and marketed for security forces in other nations. This variant is chambered for 5.56×45mm NATO ammunition. It utilizes a modified version of the QBU-88 magazine to feed rounds; STANAG magazines require modification to function. The QBU-97A has also been seen under the designation NQU03.
The QBU-88 rifle is intended for aimed semi-automatic fire at ranges beyond typical assault rifle capability. Designed for military use, it can be fitted with various sighting options including iron sights and optics, and is primarily utilized with optical sights. The QBU-88 rifle is currently in service with the PLA and Chinese police forces. The export variant, QBU-97A, is marketed to security forces in other countries.