JS 05 (QBU-09)
Norinco · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2005
Also known as: QBU-09, JS 05, Type 09 Anti-Materiel Rifle
Overview
The JS 05, also designated QBU-09 in PLA service, is a Chinese bolt-action anti-materiel rifle chambered in 12.7x108mm. Developed by Norinco as China's primary man-portable anti-materiel solution, the JS 05 features a bullpup layout that keeps its overall length manageable despite the massive 12.7mm cartridge. The rifle is designed to engage high-value targets including light armored vehicles, radar equipment, communications installations, and fortified positions at ranges up to 1500 meters, providing PLA infantry units with organic long-range destructive capability.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 13500 g (476.2 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 14200 g (500.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1480 mm (58.27") |
| Barrel Length | 1050 mm (41.34") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 30 N (6.7 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 820 m/s (2690 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 16230 J (11971 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1500 m (1640 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 6000 m (6562 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 381 mm (15.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 8 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 12.7x108mm · primary — also known as 12.7 Soviet, 12.7mm DShK
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Bolt Handle Safety
- Features: Bullpup Layout, Muzzle Brake, Integral Bipod, Optical Sight Mount, Carry Handle, Recoil Buffer, Anti Materiel Capability, Padded Recoil Pad
Service history
Operators
- People's Liberation Army · adopted 2009 · as QBU-09
- People's Armed Police
Production
Production years: 2005-present
Produced by Norinco for the PLA. Production numbers not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: China
Notes
The JS in the designation stands for Jianjishou (Sniper) in Chinese. The bullpup configuration reduces the overall length significantly, making the weapon more practical for motorized and mechanized infantry. The rifle features a substantial muzzle brake and internal recoil buffering system to manage the 12.7x108mm cartridge's punishing recoil. The bolt-action mechanism was chosen over semi-automatic for improved accuracy and reliability with the high-pressure cartridge. The JS 05 has been displayed at various Chinese defense exhibitions and is believed to be in widespread PLA service. Some sources also list a variant chambered in the domestic 12.7x108mm DJP-05 armor-piercing incendiary round optimized for anti-materiel work.
Background
The JS 05 is China's answer to the Barrett M82, but where the Americans chose semi-automatic firepower, the Chinese opted for bolt-action precision in a compact bullpup package. The design philosophy reflects PLA doctrine that emphasizes first-round hit probability over volume of fire for the anti-materiel role.