QBZ-191

The development of a conventional-layout service rifle platform began in 2014 under a Chinese military initiative. Following bidding processes involving multiple manufacturers and subsequent online leaks of prototypes in 2016 and 2017, the weapon was developed by Norinco's 208 Research Institute. It is produced by Chongqing Jianshe. Designed as part of the "Integrated Soldier Combat System" to replace the QBZ-95, the weapon officially debuted during the 70th Anniversary National Day military parade on October 1, 2019. It is designated as part of the Type 20 weapon family.

The rifle transitions from the previous bullpup layout to a conventional configuration. The operating system uses a short-stroke gas piston with a rotating bolt featuring four locking lugs and a helical cam-in locking mechanism. A three-position gas regulator is mounted on the gas block. The upper and lower receivers are constructed from aluminum alloy and joined by two assembly pins, while the handguard, pistol grip, and telescoping buttstock consist of polymer. The charging handle is situated on the right side, with the bolt release on the left, above a rock-and-lock magazine well. The fire control group is a modular unit offering safe, semi-automatic, and fully automatic modes. A full-length top Picatinny rail accommodates various optics, supplemented by folding backup iron sights, while the handguard accepts additional rail sections for accessories. Ergonomic features include a four-position adjustable stock, an ambidextrous selector, and an enlarged magazine release. The system feeds from textured polymer magazines with ammunition-indicator windows, older proprietary box magazines, or drum magazines, and accepts muzzle devices, bayonets, and under-barrel grenade launchers.

The weapon is entering service with the People's Liberation Army and the People's Armed Police to replace older service rifles. In 2023, officers of the Hong Kong Police Force PTU carried the rifle during a parade. Chinese forces presented the rifle to Laotian troops during joint exercises in July 2024, and the Royal Thai Army reported interest in purchasing export variants in 2025. Standard variants include the QBZ-191 assault rifle, the shorter QBZ-192 carbine, and the QBU-191 designated marksman rifle, which features a free-floating barrel, extended handguard, and variable-magnification scope while retaining selective-fire capability. Export variants are designated under the CS/LR series, including the CS/LR41, CS/LR42, CS/LR43, and CS/LR44 families, configured for alternative international cartridges. A prototype chambered in a different caliber has also been produced.