Chiang Kai-shek Rifle (Type 24)
Gongxian Arsenal · Rifle · Discontinued · 1935
Also known as: Type 24, Zhongzheng Rifle, Zhongzheng Type, Generalissimo Rifle, Chungcheng Rifle
Overview
The Chiang Kai-shek Rifle, designated the Type 24, is a Chinese bolt-action service rifle chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser. A licensed copy of the German Mauser Standardmodell (the forerunner of the Karabiner 98k), it was produced from 1935 at state arsenals including Gongxian, Hanyang, Jinling and Canton. Named after Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, it became the standard infantry rifle of the National Revolutionary Army and was used extensively throughout the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Chinese Civil War.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 4080 g (143.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1110 mm (43.70") |
| Barrel Length | 600 mm (23.62") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Internal Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 811 m/s (2661 fps) |
| Effective Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 15 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 7.92x57mm Mauser · primary — also known as 8mm Mauser, 8x57mm IS, 7.92x57mm
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Stripper Clip
- Safety mechanisms: Three Position Safety
- Features: Stripper Clip Loading, Controlled Round Feed, Iron Sights, Bayonet Lug
Service history
Operators
- National Revolutionary Army · adopted 1935 · as Type 24
- Republic of China Armed Forces
- People's Liberation Army
Conflicts
- Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1945)
- Chinese Civil War (1927-1949)
- Korean War (1950-1953)
Production
Estimated total produced: 600,000 · Production years: 1935-1950
Produced at multiple Chinese state arsenals including Gongxian (Kunghsien), Hanyang, Jinling and Canton.
Origin
Country of origin: China
Designer: Mauser (Standardmodell pattern)
Discontinued: 1950
Notes
Built to the Mauser Standardmodell pattern with a 600 mm barrel and turned-down bolt handle. Around 600,000 were produced before the People's Republic of China replaced it with the Type 53. Captured examples served on both Nationalist and Communist sides.
Background
Named for Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, the Type 24 standardized Chinese rifle production around the German Mauser pattern, replacing the patchwork of earlier copies such as the Hanyang 88 and giving the National Revolutionary Army a modern infantry rifle on the eve of war with Japan.