The Norinco Type 56 (T56) is a Chinese 7.62x39mm selective-fire assault rifle (and its semi-automatic civilian export variants). It is a direct derivative of the Soviet AK-47 and AKM designs.
Introduced in 1956, it became the standard-issue infantry rifle of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA)
and remains one of the most widely produced and distributed AK-style variants in the world.
Action Type: Gas-operated, rotating bolt (Long-stroke gas piston).
Caliber: 7.62x39mm Soviet M43.
Barrel Length: 16.3″ with a chrome-lined bore.
Capacity: 30-round detachable box magazine (compatible with standard AK-47/AKM magazines).
Sights: Hooded front post sight and tangent rear leaf sight graduated to 800 metres.
Build material: Locally sourced Chu wood for the stock and handguards.
