The Chinese Type 56: The Communist Chinese AK-47
The Type 56, often referred to as the Chinese AK-47, is a derivative of the original Soviet AK-47 and AKM assault rifles. Manufactured by Norinco, the Chinese state-owned defense corporation, the Type 56 has become one of the most prolific firearms in the world, symbolizing Communist China’s influence on global armed conflicts and its military-industrial capabilities.
Introduced in 1956, the Type 56 closely follows the design of the Soviet AK-47, featuring the same gas-operated, rotating bolt mechanism, and firing the 7.62x39mm cartridge. This round is renowned for its balance between range, power, and recoil, making the Type 56 effective in a variety of combat scenarios. The rifle’s rate of fire is around 600 rounds per minute, providing substantial firepower in battle.
While the Type 56 shares many similarities with the original AK-47, it also includes several distinct features. Early models of the Type 56 came with a spike bayonet, which could be folded under the barrel when not in use. This bayonet was later replaced with a blade-style bayonet in subsequent versions. Additionally, the Type 56 typically lacks the muzzle brake seen on later AKM models, although newer versions may include this feature.
The durability and reliability of the Type 56 are hallmarks of its design. Built to withstand harsh conditions, it performs well in various environments, from tropical jungles to arid deserts. Its simple construction and ease of maintenance have made it a preferred weapon for numerous armed forces and insurgent groups around the world.
Throughout the Cold War and beyond, the Type 56 was exported extensively, often as part of China’s support for various revolutionary movements and allied governments. Its widespread distribution has made it a common sight in conflicts across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The rifle’s reputation for ruggedness and effectiveness in combat has cemented its status as a formidable weapon.
In addition to its military use, the Type 56 has also been a subject of cultural significance. It has appeared in numerous films, books, and media, symbolizing both revolutionary struggle and the proliferation of small arms in global conflicts. Its silhouette is instantly recognizable, embodying the legacy of the AK-47 lineage while standing as a testament to Chinese manufacturing and military strategy.
In conclusion, the Type 56 is more than just a clone of the Soviet AK-47; it is a symbol of Communist China’s reach and impact on global warfare. Its blend of historical significance, robust design, and wide distribution ensure that it will remain a notable figure in the history of modern firearms for years to come.
Description:
What a neat little fully automatic rifle manufactured by the American Arms International Company. These were originally designed in the late 1970s as a semi-automatic version with the fully automatic models being introduced in the early 1980s. The underside of the receiver is stamped: “AMERICAN ARMS INTL. S.L. C. UT./AMERICAN 180 M-2”. They were designed to look like a Thompson SMG but used a drum magazine mounted horizontally on top of the action some what like a Lewis or Russian DP-38 machine gun. The drum magazine holds 177 rounds of the very popular and easy to obtain 22 LR ammunition. These handy little rifles can fire in either Semi-Automatic or Full-Auto (from an open bolt), a finned barrel like the 1921/28 Thompson SMGs, to aid in cooling. They have a cyclic rate of 1200 rpm which could be quite devastating even for the 22LR. It has a side mounted cocking handle, a fixed blade front sight and an adjustable rear sight patterned from the M1 Carbines. They were very unique at the time and still are today. They have a high impact brown plastic buttstock and forend with a blue/black metal finish.
Rating Definition:
Excellent with 97% of the original finish overall showing handling minor wear and test firing. The plastic components are all in excellent condition. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), Class III, Fully Automatic Weapon which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATF) under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 478.
